With preseason underway, there will be updates daily to this 2009 Fantasy Football Preseason Stock page.
Adjustments will be made on my 2009 Fantasy Football Rankings accordingly.
**** FANTASY STOCKS FOR EVERY GAME WILL BE UP AS SOON AS I WATCH THE GAMES ****
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2009 Fantasy Football Preseason Stock – Week 2
Jets at Ravens
Thomas Jones, RB, Jets 
Thomas Jones began the game Monday night with two carries up the middle for six yards each. He also had a 10-yard gain, but relinquished a bunch of his touches to Leon Washington. With Washington bound to get more rushes and Shonn Greene in the mix, Jones won’t come even close to matching his 2008 stats. He’s being overdrafted in many leagues.
Derrick Mason, WR, Ravens 
Despite semi-retiring this summer, Derrick Mason looks like he’s in mid-season form. Joe Flacco targeted Mason four times in a quarter and a half Monday night. Mason came away with three receptions for 68 yards, including a 43-yard catch. The only ball Mason failed to catch was a deeply thrown incompletion.
Willis McGahee, RB, Ravens Willis McGahee didn’t get much work with the starters Monday night. In fact, McGahee played in the third quarter with the backups.
Ray Rice, RB, Ravens Ray Rice once again started for the Ravens on Monday night. He touched the ball on four of Baltimore’s first five plays, including a 3rd-and-1 conversion on a running play. Rice finished with 29 rushing yards on eight carries and a 3-yard reception. Most importantly, Rice was in the backfield for Baltimore’s first goal-line trip. Even better, he scored on a 3-yard run on a Statue of Liberty-type play. If Rice can steal the goal-line work away from Willis McGahee and LeRon McClain, he might have an even bigger year than I’ve been anticipating.
Leon Washington, RB, Jets Leon Washington was brilliant Monday night, as the Ravens seemed to have no answer for him. Washington led the Jets in rushing (8 carries, 48 yards) and receiving (2 catches, 35 yards). Washington, who was solely responsible for the Jets converting a bunch of third downs in the second quarter, will get a lot more touches this year; the Jets weren’t kidding when they said they were going to give him the ball more.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Saints at Texans
Mike Bell, RB, Saints Sean Payton pissed off a lot of Pierre Thomas fantasy owners Saturday night. Mike Bell started the contest and received a ton of work. Payton fed Bell the ball four straight times to begin New Orleans’ first possession. Bell churned out 13 rushing yards on three carries and a 5-yard reception.
Later, Bell was in the backfield on New Orleans’ second end-zone trip. A tired Bell asked out of the game, but Payton decided to leave him in. On the following drive, Bell made a very nice cut and sprinted downfield for a 46-yard score.
The Saints TV analysts stated that Payton was high on Bell and wanted him to get a ton of work because he couldn’t play last week. Despite Bell’s 100 yards on 10 carries, Thomas will continue to be the No. 1 back. Bell is worth a gamble in the final rounds.
Marques Colston, WR, Saints Marques Colston was all over the place Saturday night, grabbing six balls for 66 yards. He’s going to have a huge year.
Garrett Hartley, K, Saints Garrett Hartley missed yet another chip-shot field goal (32) Saturday night. John Carney could keep the job even after Hartley’s four-game suspension is up.
Andre Johnson, WR, Texans Andre Johnson looks in mid-season form Saturday night, catching four balls for 38 yards. Johnson beat a Saints corner down the sideline on the first drive, but Matt Schaub missed him by a few inches. That timing will be down in the regular season.
Matt Schaub, QB, Texans Matt Schaub played a quarter and a half Saturday night, finishing 11-of-16 for 97 yards and a score. He was 5-of-6 for 56 yards and a touchdown on the Texans’ opening drive. His sole incompletion was a deep pass to Andre Johnson that was overthrown a bit. If Schaub can stay healthy all year, he’ll probably be a top-five fantasy quarterback.
Steve Slaton, RB, Texans Steve Slaton was in the game for only a quarter Saturday night, rushing for 30 yards on six carries. He also had two receptions for 13 more yards. More importantly, Slaton remained in the lineup on a 3rd-and-4 on New Orleans’ 8-yard line. Chris Brown didn’t even play until Slaton left the game in the second quarter, so Slaton’s goal-line carries remain safe for now.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Raiders at 49ers
Glen Coffee, RB, 49ers Rookie running back Glen Coffee rushed for 67 yards on 14 carries last week. Despite that solid performance, Coffee was discouraged, giving himself a C- for his effort. That was surprising before Saturday’s game, but now it’s clear what a Coffee A+ looks like.
Let me capitalize this for emphasis: COFFEE IS A STUD. He ran over people, broke through tackles, pushed piles and sprinted downfield. His numbers (129 rushing yards on 16 carries) don’t even tell the whole story. Coffee eluded multiple defenders and made several Oakland defenders look silly on numerous long runs. Coffee also caught an 8-yard checkdown and was effective in short-yardage situations, which indicates that he could be the goal-line back for the 49ers this year.
Before the game, Coffee had a few revealing quotes: “The transition to the NFL is a lot easier than I thought it would be. The playbook from high school to college was a lot more difficult than from college to pro. I think I gave the NFL too much credit. I’d be lying if I said I was blown away.”
Coffee is a natural talent and is way too good to be kept off the field. Frank Gore will continue to start and get the majority of the workload, but Mike Singletary would be crazy not to use Coffee, especially on the goal line.
Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Raiders Darrius Heyward-Bey was held reception-less Saturday night. He was targeted twice, but JaMarcus Russell missed him both times.
Zach Miller, TE, Raiders Zach Miller caught all three of his targets for 11, 3 and 2 yards. Miller remains one of the lesster TE1s despite Oakland’s offensive problems.
Louis Murphy, WR, Raiders We now have a good idea regarding which Raider receiver to draft first in our fantasy leagues in the wake of Chaz Schilens’ injury. JaMarcus Russell targeted Louis Murphy three times Saturday evening, all of which were in the end zone. One ball was tipped away. Another was too high for Murphy. The third ended up being a 24-yard score. Murphy finished with two grabs for 34 yards and that touchdown.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Giants at Bears
Earl Bennett, WR, Bears Earl Bennett led the Bears in receiving yards with 42 on two catches. Bennett was targeted four times on Cutler’s 14 throws. He made a nice diving catch for 15 yards and was later interfered with, negating more possible yardage. It looks like the Cutler-to-Bennett connection that sparked Vanderbilt a few years ago is still going strong.
Jay Cutler, QB, Bears I guess having your left tackle, tight end and running back in the lineup makes a huge difference, huh? With Orlando Pace, Greg Olsen and Matt Forte on the field, Jay Cutler shook off last week’s jitters and had an amazing outing against the Giants on Saturday night. Cutler was 8-of-13 for 121 yards and a touchdown. One of his incompletions was a drop by Olsen. Another was a miscommunication between he and Devin Hester. A third was thrown away. And a fourth was a potential 91-yard touchdown where Hester simply misjudged the ball.
If that wasn’t enough, Cutler also ran for a 12-yard gain. His only mistake of the night was a near-interception that he tossed in the second quarter.
Matt Forte, RB, Bears Matt Forte looked like the best running back in the league on Saturday night, and given the first pick in any fantasy football draft, I’d probably lean toward drafting him. Forte finished with 58 rushing yards and a score on nine attempts. He also had a 9-yard reception. Forte broke a run off left tackle for a gain of 17 yards in which he shattered Kevin Dockery’s ankles with an incredible juke move. He later scored on a 32-yard scamper off left tackle again.
Forte was split out wide on one play and was in on the goal-line carries.
During a sideline interview in the second half, Forte acknowledged that there was a lot more running room for him with Jay Cutler under center. It also helps that he has Orlando Pace paving the way for him on the left side.
Domenik Hixon, WR, Giants Domenik Hixon was thrown to only once by Eli Manning on Saturday night, finishing with just seven yards. Hixon has upside, but so far we haven’t seen anything to indicate that he’ll have a big year.
Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants Brandon Jacobs gained 27 yards on seven carries Saturday night. Jacobs ran right through Brian Urlacher on an 11-yard gain, and then later smashed into Urlacher, who helplessly collapsed onto the field. Jacobs also had a 16-yard reception where it took four Bears to bring him down. This was an encouraging sign because Jacobs had just six catches in 2008.
Hakeem Nicks, WR, Giants Hakeem Nicks had an impressive 55-yard reception from Andre’ Woodson at the end of the game. Nicks didn’t appear until the backups were in, but on the bright side, he was thrown to six times. Nicks had a second catch that was wiped out by a penalty. Nicks is by far the most talented wideout on New York’s roster, but he may not produce for you right away. He still remains a great late-round flier with a ton of upside.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Bills at Packers
Donald Driver, WR, Packers Donald Driver caught two balls for 26 yards and a touchdown Saturday night, giving him two end-zone trips this preseason. Because of his age, Driver is being drafted later than he should really go.
Jermichael Finley, TE, Packers Aaron Rodgers targeted Jermichael Finley three times Saturday night. Finley caught all three balls for 46 yards. Finley didn’t start, but it’s time to seriously consider him as an intriguing option in deeper leagues.
Ryan Grant, RB, Packers Ryan Grant couldn’t pick up a 4th-and-1 on the opening drive Saturday night, but received a goal-line carry on the next possession, which resulted in a 3-yard score. Grant rushed for 43 yards on 10 carries and chipped in with two receptions for 21 more yards. Injuries debacled Grant’s 2008 campaign, but it looks like he’s ready to bounce back this season.
Marshawn Lynch, RB, Bills Marshawn Lynch had no running lanes against the Packers and mustered only six yards on six carries Saturday night. It’s going to be an ugly year for Lynch, who will struggle behind the worst offensive line in the league once he returns from his three-game suspension. Avoid him in your leagues at all cost.
Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers You may want to own everyone on Green Bay’s offense. Aaron Rodgers was simply amazing, going 8-of-9 for 98 yards and two touchdowns Saturday night. Rodgers’ only incompletion was a drop by Donald Driver, who redeemed himself with a 5-yard score on the next play.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Panthers at Dolphins
Ronnie Brown, RB, Dolphins I don’t like Ronnie Brown this year because he always gets hurt and has never carried the load by himself, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that he was really impressive Saturday night. Brown rushed for 31 yards on seven carries and caught three balls for 25 more yards.
Ted Ginn, WR, Dolphins After a solid performance last week, Ted Ginn did nothing on Saturday. Ginn was thrown to only once and dropped that pass. These up-and-down weeks is what makes Ginn so undesirable in fantasy leagues.
Panthers Defense Downgrade Carolina’s defense a bit; stud linebacker Jon Beason suffered a sprained MCL and will be out for about a month. The Panthers are already missing one of their starting defensive tackles, so they’re going to be soft up the middle.
DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers DeAngelo Williams broke a 25-yard touchdown on the second drive Saturday night. Williams’ score was one of the best runs I’ve seen in the past few years; he shook off four tackles (Jason Ferguson, Kendall Langford, Akin Ayodele and Gibril Wilson) and then sprinted into the end zone.
Williams finished with 40 yards on eight carries. Once again, John Fox will not take touches away from Williams because he’s far too talented. Jonathan Stewart hasn’t even played because of a nagging Achilles injury. And besides, Fox has shown us time and again that he prefers using veterans over rookies.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Chargers at Cardinals
Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald was targeted a few times Saturday night, but came up with zero receptions. Like Kurt Warner, Fitzgerald is vastly overrated in all fantasy leagues this year. If Warner goes down with an injury (very likely), Fitzgerald’s numbers will suffer with Matt Leinart at the helm. Fitzgerald’s stats may suffer anyway with Warner struggling off hip surgery.
Tim Hightower, RB, Cardinals Tim Hightower looked great Saturday night, as he ran well with power and speed. Hightower gained 42 yards on nine carries. Chris Wells, meanwhile, didn’t play because Ken Whisenhunt didn’t want to risk an injury (Wells has been hampered by his ankle.) Wells warmed up and was dressed, but Whisenhunt made the right decision.
LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers LaDainian Tomlinson looked like the Tomlinson of old at times Saturday night. He was very impressive on a 19-yard screen that unfortunately was wiped out by a San Diego personal foul. Tomlinson later eluded a tackler on an 8-yard reception. Playing well into the second quarter, Tomlinson rushed for 18 yards on eight carries and caught two balls for 18 more yards.
Kurt Warner, QB, Cardinals I didn’t like Kurt Warner this year from a fantasy perspective going into this game, and nothing I saw Saturday night changed my mind. Warner finished 6-of-13 for 80 yards and a pick. He didn’t look right all evening, and understandably so, given the fact that he’s coming off hip surgery.
Warner opened the first drive inside San Diego’s 5-yard line. He went 0-for-2; his first pass was a poor throw in the flat. The other was broken up by Quentin Jammer. Warner didn’t look any better on his second possession, as he was nearly picked off on a deep throw to Larry Fitzgerald.
Thirteen of Warner’s yards came on a short checkdown toss to Jerheme Urban, who broke two tackles to gain the yardage. Warner later threw behind Fitzgerald and then overthrew Tim Hightower in the flat.
Warner seemed to get on track later with a 25-yard dart to Anquan Boldin, but unfortunately, he was later picked off in the end zone.
Take it from a guy who absolutely loved Warner as a sleeper last year – avoid him at all costs this season. He’s a 38-year-old man coming off hip surgery with a new contract. If that doesn’t scream bust, I don’t know what does.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Lions at Browns
James Davis, RB, Browns James Davis played into the second quarter and most of the second half. Against the starters, Davis had a 9-yard reception wiped out by holding and made a nice cut on 14-yard rush. Playing the backups, Davis broke an 81-yard draw to score a touchdown. Davis is probably the best running back on the roster, but there are still some things he needs to work on. For example, Davis dropped a ball and didn’t run out of the bounds to stop the clock at the end of the first half.
Braylon Edwards, WR, Browns Braylon Edwards had one catch for 34 yards Saturday night. However, he screwed up two more possible receptions. He caught a pass along the sidelines for a gain of 25 yards, but couldn’t stay inbounds. Scratch that; he didn’t even try to stay inbounds. There was simply no effort on the play. And speaking of which, Edwards dropped a pass on Cleveland’s second drive. I thought we were going to get more of an effort from Edwards this year because he’s in his contract campaign. But unless he’s saving it for the regular season, I was dead wrong.
Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions I broke down all 13 of Matthew Stafford’s throws in the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes page. Stafford and the Lions will be bashed for Saturday night’s performance, but note that it won’t be as bad as people will make it out to be. Stafford did not have the services of Calvin Johnson, so things will be a lot different once Megatron is in the lineup.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Buccaneers at Jaguars
Michael Clayton, WR, Buccaneers Byron Leftwich targeted Michael Clayton five times on his first nine throws Saturday night. Yes, the beleaguered Michael Clayton. Clayton finished with two receptions for 28 yards. I should probably dismiss this, but it’s quite possible that Clayton could have a rebound year. He was constantly in Jon Gruden’s dog house, so this new coaching staff could give him another opportunity. Leftwich certainly doesn’t mind throwing it to him.
David Garrard, QB, Jaguars David Garrard struggled last week, so it was refreshing to see him bounce back Saturday night. Garrard went 10-of-16 for 216 yards and a score. Things looked promising right away, when Garrard had all the time in the world on the first play of the game, allowing him to find a streaking Troy Williamson 74 yards downfield.
Torry Holt, WR, Jaguars It might be time to drop Torry Holt in the 2009 Fantasy Football Rankings. David Garrard didn’t target Holt until the fourth drive Saturday night, though it was a 23-yard gain. Holt was not thrown to again.
Derrick Ward, RB, Buccaneers Earnest Graham sat out with an ankle injury, so Derrick Ward got the start. Ward opened with a nice run behind right guard for 10 yards. Ward later had a 27-yard gain, thanks in part to one of the worst tackling efforts I’ve ever seen. Seriously, Sean Considine looked like a Madden defender controlled by a guy who doesn’t know how to play video games, as he dived sideways out of the way of Ward. Ward also caught a pass over the middle for eight yards. He finished with 40 rushing yards on five carries.
Troy Williamson, WR, Jaguars David Garrard had all the time in the world on the first play of the game Saturday night, allowing him to find a streaking Troy Williamson 74 yards downfield. Williamson beat Ronde Barber and Sabby Piscitelli. Williamson later beat Piscitelli again for a 61-yard reception. Williamson finished with three grabs for 147 yards. He’ll be a hit-or-miss play in fantasy this year (a la Devery Henderson). Don’t trust him.
Kellen Winslow Jr., TE, Buccaneers Kellen Winslow Jr. was not targeted at all by Byron Leftwich on Saturday night. In fact, all Winslow did was commit a false start to open the game. Leftwich is a pedestrian quarterback at best, and consequently may not be able to get the ball to Winslow.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Broncos at Seahawks
Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seahawks With Walter Jones coming off another knee surgery, Sean Locklear struggled in his place at left tackle and surrendered two sacks Saturday night. Hasselbeck was sacked three times total. If Locklear continues to struggle in Jones’ absence, Hasselbeck could get hurt. That said, Hasselbeck remains one of the best QB2s out there.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR, Seahawks Matt Hasselbeck targeted T.J. Houshmandzadeh on three of his first four throws Saturday night. Houshmandzadeh finished with five receptions for 41 yards and a touchdown. It looks like Houshmandzadeh will continue to be a PPR fiend in his new home.
Kyle Orton, QB, Broncos I discussed Kyle Orton’s pedestrian Saturday night performance in full detail in the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes. Orton did not impress me one bit, but I feel as though he slightly raised his fantasy stock solely by saving his job. Orton is going to rack up tons of yardage completing his trademark 5-yard passes. Don’t expect a lot of touchdowns and look for a bunch of picks when he’s trying to play catch-up.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Steelers at Redskins
Jason Campbell, QB, Redskins Jason Campbell’s 1-of-7 for 10 yards on Saturday night is as bad as it looks. Campbell’s first pass was a deep throw to Malcolm Kelly, but it was underthrown and nearly picked off by Troy Polamalu. Campbell’s third attempt was way too high for Santana Moss. Campbell had a 10-yard reception wiped out because of a penalty, but he does not look like he’s progressing in this West Coast offense, which should not be a surprise because Campbell is not made for that system.
Willie Parker, RB, Steelers Willie Parker finally played, gaining 13 yards on four carries. Parker also had a 2-yard reception and was used on the goal line to score a touchdown. Don’t get too excited, however; Parker did not participate in the team’s short-yardage and goal-line drills during the week.
Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins Clinton Portis looked great and the offensive line opened some nice running lanes for him against the Steelers’ tough defense Saturday night. Portis rushed for 26 yards on five carries. However, Jim Zorn foolishly used Ladell Betts on the goal line, which was predictably unsuccessful. Zorn must have been smoking crack before the game because there is no good reason not to use Portis where it counts most.
Steelers Defense One Steeler who looked really great was return specialist Stefan Logan. Logan averaged 12 yards per punt return and a whopping 39 yards per kickoff return (four kickoff returns). Logan didn’t score, but looked like he was capable of going the distance on every opportunity. Upgrade Pittsburgh’s defense slightly.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Falcons at Rams
Tony Gonzalez, TE, Falcons So much for not knowing the offense. Against the Rams, Tony Gonzalez moved the chains with an 11-yard reception on third down. He later caught a 14-yard touchdown. Gonzalez finished with three receptions for 32 yards and that score.
Laurent Robinson, WR, Rams Laurent Robinson will be thrown to early and often while Donnie Avery is out of the lineup. Kyle Boller targeted Robinson on seven of his first 10 throws Friday night. Robinson finished with five receptions for 65 yards, and could have had more if Boller didn’t totally suck. Boller completely missed a streaking Robinson in the end zone on what would have been a long touchdown pass.
Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons Matt Ryan was nearly flawless against the Rams, going 7-of-8 for 81 yards and a score. Ryan’s only incompletion was floated deep down the sideline that went out of bounds. Ryan’s obviously a great QB1 to have this season.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Chiefs at Vikings
Dwayne Bowe, WR, Chiefs Dwayne Bowe once again didn’t start, but produced three receptions for 37 yards and a score. Unless Todd Haley’s completely brain dead, Bowe will be in the starting lineup next week.
Matt Cassel, QB, Chiefs Matt Cassel may not last the entire season because Kansas City’s offensive line is horrific. The Chiefs simply could not protect Cassel against a Minnesota defensive front on Friday night that was missing Jared Allen and Pat Williams. Cassel was pressured on his first two throws and was sacked three times in the first half. The Vikings’ starters sacked Cassel twice in the first quarter alone.
Brett Favre, QB, Vikings All the talk was about Brett Favre on Friday night even though he threw only four passes. Favre’s first throw was wide of fullback Naufahu Tahi (why am I not surprised that Tahi was the recipient of Favre’s first target?) Favre completed his only pass on the next play, which was a 4-yard connection to Percy Harvin. Favre’s third throw missed Jaymar Johnson. Favre took a hit on his final attempt and sailed the ball over the middle of the field that could have been picked off.
It’s impossible to read much into this performance. Favre wasn’t impressive, but he’s only had a few days of practice. Next week’s game will be a better measuring stick.
Larry Johnson, RB, Chiefs The box score says Larry Johnson rushed for 21 yards on eight carries against the Vikings on Friday night, but he gained zero yards on five rushes versus Minnesota’s first-string defense. All of his positive yardage came against the backups.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Titans at Cowboys
Martellus Bennett, TE, Cowboys For all of the talk of Martellus Bennett being a huge weapon this year, he was targeted only once by Romo on Friday night, though it was a 17-yard reception. Keep an eye on Bennett, as he’ll be worth picking up if Jason Witten gets hurt.
Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys Marion Barber was involved on six of Dallas’ first nine plays Friday night. On those touches, Barber had five rushes for 20 yards, as well as an 8-yard reception. Barber eventually scored a touchdown from the 1-yard line.
Tony Romo, QB, Cowboys Tony Romo was every bit impressive as his awesome stats (18-of-24, 192 yards) indicate Friday night. Romo was almost picked off on the third play of the opening drive, but then went on to go 9-of-11 for 68 yards on the next possession. Despite the loss of Terrell Owens, Romo is a very solid QB1, but if you draft him, make sure you have a solid backup to take over in December.
Roy Williams, WR, Cowboys Who needs Terrell Owens when you have Roy Williams playing his natural position for a change? Tony Romo targeted Roy Williams five times on his first nine throws Friday night. Williams caught three of those balls for 19 yards. Romo also took a shot deep to Williams, but the ball sailed out of bounds. Williams finished with five receptions for 36 yards.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Bengals at Patriots
Cedric Benson, RB, Bengals Cedric Benson really impressed me Thursday night. He made a nice juke on Shawn Springs to gain 13 yards on a reception. He ran with good power and eluded defenders with nice cuts, gaining 28 rushing yards on 10 carries versus New England’s tough defensive front. Benson also chipping in with three receptions for 25 receiving yards. It’s hard to believe, but Benson finally looks like the running back who came out of Texas back in 2005.
Tom Brady, QB, Patriots In a battle between Tom Brady and Just Turnovers O’Sullivan, it’s very difficult to believe that O’Sullivan was the superior quarterback. After a solid Week 1 performance, Brady was very shaky, going 4-of-8 for 57 yards. That gives him a nice YPA of 7.13, but keep in mind that 32 of those yards belong to Wes Welker, who caught a screen at the line of scrimmage and bolted downfield.
Most of Brady’s completions were short stuff. All of his long attempts were incomplete. Brady wildly overthrew Randy Moss for a potential touchdown. A few plays later, Brady missed Welker in the end zone. The 2007 Tom Brady would have hit those targets.
Laveranues Coles, WR, Bengals So much for the $27 million the Bengals paid Laveranues Coles this offseason. Chris Henry started over Coles on Thursday night, who was held reception-less.
Chris Henry, WR, Bengals So much for the $27 million the Bengals paid Laveranues Coles this offseason. Chris Henry started over Coles on Thursday night and was the superior wideout in this game. Henry caught four balls for 55 yards, including a 24-yard score. Coles, meanwhile, was held reception-less. Henry is very intriguing because he plays in a high-powered offense and is big enough to be one of Carson Palmer’s primary end-zone targets. I’m moving him up my rankings.
Laurence Maroney, RB, Patriots Unlike last week, Fred Taylor started Thursday night. He looked pretty impressive, rushing for 26 yards on seven carries. He also moved laterally, which Maroney can’t do.
Fred Taylor, RB, Patriots Unlike last week, Fred Taylor started Thursday night. He looked pretty impressive, rushing for 26 yards on seven carries. He also moved laterally, which Maroney can’t do. Taylor advanced the chains on third-and-one, indicating he has the potential to be a goal-line back. However, I would just stay away from New England’s backfield entirely until the later rounds; there will be a new star every Sunday.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
Eagles at Colts
Peyton Manning, QB, Colts I guess having your two starting offensive tackles makes a huge difference, huh? Last week, Indianapolis started two reserve tackles and Peyton Manning was sacked three times on the team’s first drive. This week, with Charlie Johnson and Ryan Diem in the lineup, Manning was able to effortlessly march down the field against the Eagles. He began the game 5-of-5 for 50 yards, and his first incompletion was dropped by Jacob Tamme in the end zone. Manning eventually tossed a beautiful touchdown to Anthony Gonzalez, finishing 7-of-10 for 70 yards and a score on the opening drive.
Manning completed the game 10-of-14 for 167 yards and two touchdowns; the second was a 76-yard strike to Reggie Wayne. Manning fumbled the ball away on the second drive, but was brilliant otherwise. Manning is currently being underdrafted in most leagues because he’s going behind both Tom Brady and Drew Brees. If you can get him in the third round, don’t hesitate.
Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Colts For those who remain skeptical that Anthony Gonzalez won’t produce this year: Of Manning’s 10 throws on the opening drive of Thursday night’s game, Gonzalez was targeted on four of them. Gonzalez caught two of those passes for four yards, including a fade in the end zone. Earlier, Manning overthrew Gonzalez for a potential score.
For more on this game, go to the 2009 NFL Preseason Fantasy Football Notes.
MISSING
Be sure to check out my other 2009 Fantasy Football articles, which will include mock drafts, rankings, sleepers, busts, cheat sheets and other things.
More 2010 Fantasy Football Articles:
2010 Fantasy Football: Home
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings:
2010 Fantasy Football Playoff Rankings - 1/5 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Week 17 Fantasy Rankings - 1/2 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks - 8/31 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks - 6/6 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Running Backs - 9/6 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Running Backs - 7/3 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers - 9/7 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers - 7/14 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Tight Ends - 8/31 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Tight Ends - 7/20 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Kickers - 6/10 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Defenses - 6/11 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Auction Values - 9/2 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: IDP Defensive Linemen - 8/3 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: IDP Linebackers - 8/7 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: IDP Defensive Backs - 8/14 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Team-by-Team - 6/7 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Dynasty Rookie Rankings - 4/30 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Rookie Rankings - 4/29 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheets:
2010 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 150 Traditional - 9/6 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 150 PPR - 9/6 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 150 Touchdown League - 9/6 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Rankings: Downloadable Spreadsheets - 9/7 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Mock Drafts:
2010 Fantasy Football Draft: WF.com Free League - 9/7 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Draft: Real Traditional Draft - 9/1 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Draft: Real PPR Draft - 8/26 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Draft: Real PPR Draft - 8/18 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Draft: Real Experts PPR Draft - 8/12 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Experts Mock Draft - 8/12 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Draft: Pros vs. Joes - 7/28 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR Draft with AKA - 7/20 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Mocking ESPN's Fantasy Mock Draft - 7/7 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: The Four-Man PPR Fantasy Draft - 7/1 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Articles:
2010 Fantasy Football Injury Reports: Week 17 - 1/2 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Start Em, Sit Em - 12/29 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Add/Drop - 12/20 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Stock Index - Week 8 - 10/29 (John)
2010 Fantasy Football Buffet: Week 8 - 10/28 (Steve)
2010 Fantasy Football Stock - 9/7 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Preseason Stock - 9/3 (Walt)
2010 NFL Preseason Recap, Fantasy Football Notes - 9/3 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: High-Upside Late-Round Sleepers - 8/25 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Top 12 Players to Avoid - 8/25 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Undervalued Players - 8/13 (John)
2010 Fantasy Football: Buy Low - 8/6 (Walt)
ESPN's 2010 Fantasy Football Magazine Errors - 8/3 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Defense Strategy - 8/2 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: My Round-by-Round Strategy - 7/27 (Walt)
Lack of 2010 Fantasy Depth: Blame the 2008 NFL Draft Class - 7/26 (John)
2010 Fantasy Football: Why You Should Pass on Chris Johnson - 7/14 (John)
2010 Fantasy Football: Draft Strategies - 7/13 (John)
2010 Fantasy Football: Wide Receiver Scarcity - 6/30 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Sleepers (Late-Round) - 6/2 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Sleepers (Mid-Round) - 6/1 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Busts - 5/31 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football Mailbag - 5/29 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Quarterbacks with New Receivers - 5/1 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: 2010 NFL Draft Stock Up - 4/29 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: 2010 NFL Draft Stock Down - 4/29 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Free Agency Stock Up - 4/15 (Walt)
2010 Fantasy Football: Free Agency Stock Down - 4/12 (Walt)
Running Backs with Most Carries - 4/10 (Walt)
NFL Picks - Dec. 13
2025 NFL Mock Draft - Dec. 11
NFL Power Rankings - Dec. 9
2026 NFL Mock Draft - Nov. 29
Fantasy Football Rankings - Sept. 4
