Disparity in the NFL

Yesterday as a college friend and I ate lunch discussing the upcoming football season, we began talking about the recent 2 year pay raise that Chris Johnson of the Tennessee Titans just received, a deal which will pay him an upgrade from $ 550,000 in 2010 to $2.5 million. Now to you and me this seems like a great pay raise, however for Johnson’s profession and the financial contradictions it has with rookie signings and player wages altogether, are undermining the fairness the NFL has implemented with preference for a salary cap and strong handed rule from the top. In 2010 that is an uncapped year for the league which at the end of the season will have to meet with the players union and make concessions to avoid a holdout, the financial uncertainty that runs rampant through every organization is putting teams and players future success in question. So why for this dispute among players and owners who are both part of the most popular and lucrative sport in the country I ask? Selfish owners are the obvious answer. Having a salary cap provides each team to pay a maximum amount for a team’s total salary based on that year. Last year each team was allowed to spend up to $127 million on filling its roster. $127 million for a 53 man roster which represents the most viewed sport in the U.S. In comparison to baseball and basketball that are both dwarfed by the fan fare and revenue generated by the NFL, player salaries for baseball are laughable in comparison to players value and what they actually get paid.

Take for example Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Hiroki Kuroda who will make this year just under $15.5 million dollars. First thoughts when thinking about that are, who the heck is Hiroki Kuroda and why is he making that much money. Well Mr. Kuroda is an average right handed starter, who in three full Major League seasons has never won more than 10 games, and currently sports a 3.53 ERA. It is agreeable this is a bad contract, yet in baseballs free spending system the margin for error to sink millions of dollars into a risky player are offered greater error proof as well as ability to pay world class athletes what they deserve for what they do and generate for the teams and league they are a part of. With baseball unlike football the players careers are much longer and can sustain power in their union by taking a stance against unfair pay. However where the NFL is misguided by greed in opposing a cap, players whose careers average about 3.5 years have little room to forgo a season in lockout as leverage against the league, thus only strengthening the owners position at the bargaining table. Players such as Chris Johnson who set league records last year posting 2,509 yards from scrimmage and others will suffer due to these restrictions.

Further undermining the financial structure of the NFL is rookie pay scale. Recently the St. Louis Rams signed number one overall pick Sam Bradford to a six year, $78 million dollar contract, that includes $50 million guaranteed. That means that if Bradford who has never taken a snap in the league is unfortunate enough to suffer a career ending injury in his first pre-season game, he will garner $50 million dollars over the next seven years. How can that be you might ask? How can a player like Johnson who has accomplished so much more earn so much less than a player who has done nothing yet shown “promise” to become a great player. This recent deal with Bradford and Johnson both comes at a time when the disparity for proper financial pay to players is necessary for the leagues survival. A salary cap is not the answer for next season no matter what the bar is set at. With its current financial gains and widespread appeal, the league should look to offer the fruits of its labor to its hardest workers, the players who make the league. Players like Johnson who instantly becomes the face of the franchise selling jerseys and giving their image back to the league at risk for the health on every play for what by league finances equals mediocre pay.

Though the other disagreements concerning post retirement benefits and injured player compensations will be other issues discussed after the 2010 season, the glaring need for the NFL to rethink its financial system are imperative to keep the popularity of the sport at the zenith it currently resides. Yet as this article has discussed the key to who controls the power and money will be of significant issue in deciding the leagues uncertain future and it is up to anyone’s guess on how far the owners will bend to the player’s demands for a bigger piece of the pie.

Oakland Team Preview

I wonder what it must be like to be an Oakland Raiders fan. Considering their past history of awful coaches, overrated players, and an owner who is crazy, the passion they still bring to the games everyday shows why the football is such a great sport. That’s about as good as the Oakland team has it this year, as the team itself is riddled with overrated players and blissful ignorance of the season to come. Starting at QB Jason Campbell has been talked about as the QB that can turn it around this year for the Raiders, however if you have ever watched Jason Campbell play a game, you will quickly realize that he is no better than Seneca Wallace of Cleveland or dare I say former backup Shaun King, nothing more than a guy who can roll out of the pocket on play-action and complete a 10-12 yard pass. Backups Brad Gradkowski and Charlie Fry don’t prove to be looked upon as reliable backups, questioning if a veteran signed early in the year could be an option. Carrying the rock for the Raiders will most likely be a by committee format as Michael Bush and Daren McFadden both seem capable to making strides this season. Bush is an all around better back than McFadden, though he lacks his speed, and Bush can provide a consistent pace and sustain more contact. McFadden is not a bad player; however his inability to find holes, and display side to side cuts to go along with his top end straight line speed makes him the consummate #2. Inhibiting the Raiders promising run game is an offensive line that shows little promise. Outside of Mario Henderson, and I hate to say Robert Gallery, the line is a dismal group. Gallery’s play is spotty and Henderson is still finding his own consistency, so I don’t see much changing, especially with a mobile QB. At the receiving position, TE Zach Miller is the best pass catcher on the team. Look for him often to be the go to weapon for Campbell, much like Fred Davis was last season in Washington. At WR Louis Murphy showed a lot of promise last season considering the QB play. If Campbell does shock and surprise us, Murphy should have a respectable sophomore year. Other WR Chaz Schilens also displayed abilities to change games and should step in comfortably to play opposite of Murphy. A lot of eyes will be watching 2nd year man Darius Heyward-Bey this year in Oakland to see if he was a complete bust. He is a talented player, yet cannot run a route or catch a ball to save his life. We will see early if off-season drills helped a skilled, yet flawed player.

The bread and butter of the Oakland Raiders this year is their defense. This unit possesses a unique quality and that is to go out and win games by itself. Playing in conservative 3-4 scheme, the front line consisting of Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly, and Jay Richardson all have great size and athleticism to stop the run and force pressure from inside. At linebacker, a talented group of Kamerion Wimbley, Thomas Howard, and rookie Rolando McLain all offer great tackling skills, and notably Wimbley, offers an outside rushing presence that could prove effective. In the secondary, the dominant abilities of Nnamdi Asomugha cannot be understated. His cover ability to latterly take teams #1 receivers out of games is the lynch pin that elevates this unit from a par to above average group. Playing his opposite, the other Chris Johnson will be tested often as teams will shy away from Asomugha. His decent ability should prove adequate over the course of the season. Roaming the back end, Tyvon Branch and Michael Huff are an average group that plays overly aggressive, yet has the skill set to be one of the best in the league. Branch has proven he is a good player, yet this will be a year in which his play could significantly improve the overall pass defense of Oakland.

For the Oakland Raiders this year I see hardships aplenty. Playing in the AFC West offers opportunities to steal a few games, yet outside of that winning will be an overwhelming task. To put it simply if Jason Campbell finds his groove this year, and Hayward-Bey can show he isn’t the bust he is quickly becoming, then the team stands to challenge for a playoff spot. The defense is overall an above average group who should keep them in many games. It is up to the offense to produce for success for Raider nation in 2010. In all 4-5 wins seems reasonable though I wouldn’t bet against them going .500 with their schedule and new hopes at QB.

Buffalo Team Preview

If there was a team that epitomized the argument that a QB can make or break a team it would be Buffalo. With the roster currently composing of Ryan Fitzpatrick, Trent Edwards, and Brian Brohm all fighting for the starting spot, no matter who wins, their play will not be of any benefit to the team. There are several bright spots on the Bills roster this year that include rookie running back C.J. Spiller and receiver Lee Evans, who both offer game changing abilities. In Spillers case he will be battling veterans Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson for carries. With a lack of ability at QB expect to see all of these players garner 12-15 carriers a game as Buffalo will live and die on the legs of their running backs. An added benefit to Spiller and Lynch are their abilities to catch balls out of the backfield, and will be looked upon as safety blankets often. At receiver Evans is by far the best on the team. His breakaway speed and agility give the Bills a deep threat weapon, however the question remains on how much they will be able to throw to him. Other receivers of note are James Hardy who is coming of an injury, yet offers promise as a tall possession receiver. After Hardy, the drop off is noticeable as 3rd stinger Roscoe Parrish has not lived up to his potential and others on the team will not get the looks due to a poor passing attack. The line for the Bills isn’t as impressive as it has been in years past. Guards Eric Wood and Andy Levitre are young and talented; however question marks exist at both tackle spots where uncertainty will cause problems from day one.

The defensive unit of the Bills shows greater talent and depth than the offense, and will have to step up often if Buffalo is to improve on their win totals from last year. Starting on the defensive line, Marcus Stroud is a stout run stopper and pass rusher who has the height to bat down passes. At nose tackle Kyle Williams will provide the needed cog in the Bills 3-4 system which should prove effective considering the personnel. A big question mark for the unit is if Aaron Schobel returns for another season, which would improve the line greatly. At linebacker the Bills see a plethora of youth and talent in Paul Posluszny, Kawika Mitchell, and Aaron Maybin. Along with that the veteran leadership of Andra Davis allows for Buffalo to blitz heavy and often with all possessing great tackling skills and the ability to track down ball carriers. The Buffalo secondary on paper looks good; however I am not sold on Donte Whitner or Leodis McKelvin as starters in the league. Safety Jarius Byrd leads the unit after posting a league leading 9 INT last year, and Terrance McGee is a capable cover corner. In any form the secondary shouldn’t hinder the team this season, yet will not make the impact that group offers.

For Buffalo in 2010 it should be another troubled season playing in the AFC East. With an absence of talent at QB and youth on the offensive line, the talented weapons they do have in the running backs and Evans will have problems living up to potential. The defensive unit will keep the team in many games as they are well built and have talent to keep games close. A determining factor in that is if the youth at linebacker can improve on last season’s ups and downs and provide a consistent pass rush. Look for 3-4 wins as a young team tries to survive a tough division and no defined leader.

Cleveland Team Preview

This year like any other year should prove difficult for the Browns to win games. It is a challenge to look at the roster and find a true star. The biggest on the team is LT Joe Thomas, outside of that the Browns are in deep trouble on both sides of the ball. Starting at QB Jake Delhomme shouldn’t produce any better than he did last year in Carolina which saw him run a talented team into the ground. Making his situation worse is the fact that Joshua Cribbs, a return man is the best receiving threat on the team. Also included in the mix are Mohammad Massaquoi and Benjamin Watson, both average targets at best. In the backfield, last year’s flame Jerome Harrison looks to build on a solid 2009 finish and could be challenged by rookie Montario Hardesty for carries. A likely scenario by season’s end due to poor QB play would be a running back by committee style. A bright spot on the team is the offensive line that boasts Thomas, Eric Steinbach and Alex Mack, all potential Pro Bowl players. The success of Harrison and Hardesty will depend greatly if the unit can stay healthy and productive. Other than that the conservative play calling of the Browns attack shouldn’t amount to any spectacular totals other than the potential of Cribbs and Harrison.

On the defense there is talent yet not a lot of depth. Shaun Rogers anchors the middle of a large, yet slow line that will not pressure the QB enough to change games. At linebacker D’Qwell Jackson carries a unit that has veterans a plenty, yet their youth and durability are question marks. In the secondary the Browns have an interesting trio of players at CB. Veterans Sheldon Brown and Eric Wright along with first round selection Joe Haden make for a difficult tandem no matter which set is on the field. At safety no talent exists, and I wouldn’t be surprised by the end of training camp, if Brown isn’t moved to one of those spots.

For Cleveland in 2010 look for struggles precipitated by the lack of talent on the offensive side of the ball. The difficulty the Browns will face in scoring will put added pressure on the defensive to play to a level they are capable of, yet for 16 games seems unlikely. The best hope for the Browns is if backup QBs Seneca Wallace or Colt McCoy comes through if Delhomme implodes. Other than that look for a three win season at best.

St. Louis Team Preview

The 2010 season should prove to be a testing ground for a dreadful yet promising St. Louis Rams team. The teams best player Steven Jackson did all he could last season in carrying the team in a futile one win season. This year Jackson will be in a better, yet similar situation. Jackson is coming off back surgery which could hamper him carrying 30+ times each game, but will be the teams go to threat for scoring opportunities. Also on offense the obvious attention is drawn to rookie QB Sam Bradford and the prospects he brings in reviving the days of the greatest show on turf. The young first round pick should get a lot of playing time this year as there is a lack of a veteran backup. With that Bradford will produce fluctuating statistics as the question marks at WR and his inexperience come into play. Receiving threats on the Rams aren’t eye catching. The best of the bunch is third year pro Donnie Avery who has had his issues with injuries and poor QB play. He has the potential to become a great target for Bradford over the middle and should be looked upon as the Rams number one guy. Other than that, the mix of youth presented by rookie Mardy Gilyard Brandon Gibson and Laurent Robinson, all have potential to step up and show sparks for the 2011 season when some of the maturity of the team grows. Offering a possibility for success for the Rams is their talented offensive line. Led by center Jason Brown and last year’s number two selection Jason Smith, the Rams are well equipped to give the fragile Bradford the dominant Jackson the time and protection they need to produce.

On the defensive side of the ball the picture is not as promising. No real talent exists other than outside linebacker James Laurinaitis and Oshiomogho Atogwe and even they are above average players at best. Former number two selection Chris Long has not panned out, and the rest of the line is built too much on speed than size. Where the Rams will lose many of their games this year will be because of dismal play in the secondary. They do not possess a respectable corner, and will not be able to rely on a strong pass. Any opposing QB facing the Rams this year will have a field day in putting up impressive stats as no ball hawk exists on the team.

Altogether for the Rams in 2010, the picture is bleak. The hopes of making the playoffs are out of the question and the year will be played as an audition for 2011 when a more competitive team can be established. The youth on offense is of intrigue. With a respectable offensive line and an all world player in Jackson, Bradford could make a big impact this year, laying the groundwork for a future contender in the NFC West. Look for a season full of shootouts as the Rams will fall behind early due to the poor play of the defense. Nevertheless like any team it should be an interesting year.

Tampa Bay Preview

When looking across the NFL landscape for a potential Super Bowl contender the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are years away from consideration. Coming into the 2010 season the Bucs are full of question marks on both sides of the ball, and even on the sidelines. Finishing last year with one of the league’s worst records the hope for a rebound this season is dependent on multiple “ifs”. One of those being if second year head coach Raheem Morris can navigate his young team through a daunting NFC South. Another “if” for Bucs success, is the improvement in play by their young signal caller Josh Freeman. Entering his second year in the league, Freeman has massive potential as shown by impressive games last season without a stellar supporting cast. If Freeman alone can improve on his modest rookie performance the Bucs should steal a few wins. An obstacle for Freeman and the Bucs is that the supporting cast shows little promise for immediate success this season. The offensive line on paper could contend as one of the league’s best. Guards Davin Joseph and Keydrick Vincent along with Center Jeff Faine show talent and experience to propel the run game, yet Tackle Jeremy Trueblood must provide better protection for Freeman to succeed. The stable of backs that include Earnest Graham, Derrick Ward, and Carnell Williams are similar to the O-line with experience and talent, yet the running back by committee format must produce better this year. This is unlikely in that all are injury prone and offer similar running styles, not creative enough with their conservative offensive attack. For receiving options, Tight End Kellen Winslow is light years ahead of anyone else on the offense. Look for him to lead the team in receiving categories as Freeman will check down often with inexperience at receiver. With the departure of Antonio Bryant to Cincinnati a void has been left to fill as the team’s number one threat. Veterans Michael Clayton and Maurice Stovall are not talented enough for that role, however rookies Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams are. Both showed great potential in college, yet both underperformed. If maturity can kick in, the two showed provide for interesting prospects to watch grow over the season.

For Buccaneer success on defense the rookie play of Gerald McCoy and Brian Price will be a determining factor. The two linemen should provide the Bucs with both run stopping strength and pass rushing pressure. In all they should make the defense better than it was last season when it ranked dead last in the league against stopping the run. Outside of those players, the depth and opposite end positions are the weakest in the league. At linebacker Barrett Ruud is the best player on the defense. His play stands out, yet is not dominant enough to carry the defense. Geno Hayes provides another talented tackling presence, however he like Ruud is not a game changer. The strongest part of the entire team is the secondary, where talent is present at numerous positions, yet does not boast a star but more is centered on depth and experience. At the corner position Ronde Barber provides a veteran insight and talent, yet at 35, can he be looked at as the team’s top cover man. Third year player Aqib Talib has made strides of maturing, and is capable during this year or next year of overtaking Barber as the teams number 1. At safety Tanard Jackson and Sean Jones are both experienced and game changing ball hawks. Jackson shows impressive skills that provide help over the top and is only behind Ruud and McCoy in terms of pure ability to play the game.

In all for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2010 they will depend on a great number of question marks at numerous positions. The teams mix of youth and leadership should help the younger players develop faster and bring an impact. If that happens the Bucs could provide a few shocks along the way this year, yet with the youth at key positions that is about as far as the potential goes for success. Look for them to struggle to win in the first half of the season and dependent on the success of Freeman and McCoy 3-4 wins is the max this team should see. The Bucs should be looking to next season for a realistic playoff push, 2010 isn’t their year.

College Sports Uphill Battle

With the recent investigation of former Florida Gator lineman Maurkice Pouncey amid a summer of other investigations and sanctions by the NCAA, one has to wonder, what is going on in college athletics. This isn’t the first year we have seen illegal activities involving sports agents and illegal benefits provided to players. A trend that permeates football, basketball and baseball, blurs the lines between amateurism and capitalism. With a recent rise in profiles of high school players in the media via scouting dominated web sites, as well as well as emphasis and demand for college singing day broadcasts, the amateur athlete in America has gone from local hero to national sensation. I myself remember 3 years ago browsing a scouting website looking at where my alma mater East Carolina was going to find the next Chris Johnson. A general interest in the subject led me to view other schools and what a rival UNC was up to in recruiting for that year. Of the players that they had listed, the top one considering the Tar Heels was Washington D.C. prospect Marvin Austin, who at the time was listed as the #1 overall player in the country. The scouting report of Austin drooled over his talents, billing him as the next Warren Sapp. Imagine that, a 17 year old high school student is being compared to one of the greatest defensive lineman in football history. The attention that draws to a young person can only seem overwhelming because it’s not only getting your name in the paper and a flash on a Friday night football show anymore, its building you up and bringing more spotlight than most low level pros receive. Much to my chagrin Austin signed with the Tar Heels and stepped on the field as a true freshman as the most hyped player on the roster. That star status has followed Austin to his upcoming senior season where he returned to win a conference championship with other rising seniors. However for Austin, his recent run in with benefits provided illegally by an agent, violates rules stipulated by the NCAA and faces possible suspension for his final year. For Austin and others like him who are touted as future first round picks with millions of dollars awaiting them around the corner, why are these harsh limitations on contact and benefits with representatives placed upon them? If Austin was not an athlete, say a brilliant scientist or talented musician who was being wooed by companies to work for or record companies to sign with, being offered expensive dinners or trips or even gifts to forge a partnership following graduation, I ask does that blur the line between the so called purity of academic prestige upheld at prestigious schools (Florida, Southern California, North Carolina)? The line the NCAA takes is that the influence by outside forces takes away the amateurism of college athletics and disrupts the reason the player in question is at the school anyways, to play football, wait... I mean learn. For the millions of dollars the University stands to make from Austin’s success in college and in the pros by way of image association and recognition, he is rewarded, if he stays and graduates, with a degree. Sorry, but last time I checked the out of state tuition for the University of North Carolina for four years does not even come close to equaling the monetary benefits Austin provides to the school by way of those powder blue #9 jerseys for $49.99 at the student bookstore. This all the while being at risk of his physical health and possibility of not being able to play professionally, robbing him of a lucrative livelihood. In the most recent case involving Pouncey who is alleged to have received $100,000 dollars before his final colligate game from an agent is seen in this writers eyes as nothing more than a business deal between a future NFL millionaire and his representative. With this allegation the Florida football program could face sanctions imposed by the NCAA and loss of scholarships, or a loss of the opportunity for someone who would not receive a top flight education to go elsewhere. In all the NCAA position towards agent involvement with players is misguided and does more harm than good. It more often indirectly punishes players in the future coming into a program or not coming in I should say, as well as criminalizing players who are the prey in almost all of these situations. In all, the rules must change. There can no longer be a hypocritical stance by the NCAA towards a player’s future and his own personal business. After all, what Austin is learning in school is how to succeed later in life, to be able to do that in the present should be applauded not demonized, for it is he who will suffer the consequences of his actions, not those enticing him with the benefits that come with being athletically gifted. If the NCAA does not reform their position concerning this problem in college sports, then it is doing itself and the academic institutions it governs a disservice by conflicting policies with the realities of the current environment. Its ineffectiveness to curb what it calls a problem only furthers the stance that the battle they are fighting is futile. They should accept the realities of the monetary benefits everyone stands to make form a program’s success and shift towards a policing and ensuring academic success in the classroom and making sure that they are doing what they are there to do after all…learn.

Fantasy Team Defense Ranks

Team Defensive Ranks

1. New York Jets
2. Green Bay Packers
3. Baltimore Ravens
4. Dallas Cowboys
5. Philadelphia Eagles
6. San Francisco 49ers
7. Minnesota Vikings
8. Cincinnati Bengals
9. New York Giants
10. Pittsburg Steelers
11. Chicago Bears
12. Indianapolis Colts
13. New Orleans Saints
14. San Diego Chargers
15. Denver Broncos
16. Atlanta Falcons
17. New England Patriots
18. Houston Texans
19. Miami Dolphins
20. Buffalo Bills
21. Arizona Cardinals
22. Cleveland Browns
23. Tennessee Titans
24. Kansas City Chiefs
25. Carolina Panthers
26. Washington Redskins
27. Detroit Lions
28. Oakland Raiders
29. Seattle Seahawks
30. Jacksonville Jaguars
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams

Fantasy Kicker Ranks

Top 30 Kicker Ranks

1. Nate Kaeding
2. Ryan Longwell
3. Stephen Gostkowski
4. Rob Bironas
5. Mason Crosby
6. David Akers
7. Matt Prater
8. Garrett Hartley
9. Neil Rackers
10. Shayne Graham
11. Jeff Reed
12. Jay Feely
13. Robbie Gould
14. Lawrence Tynes
15. Ryan Succop
16. Matt Bryant
17. John Kasey
18. Josh Brown
19. Dan Carpenter
20. Rian Lindell
21. Joe Nedney
22. David Buehler
23. Jason Hanson
24. Nick Folk
25. Connor Barth
26. Phil Dawson
27. Adam Vinatieri
28. Sebastian Janikowski
29. Josh Scobee
30. Dave Rayner

Fantasy TE Ranks

Top 30 Tight End Ranks

1. Dallas Clark
2. Vernon Davis
3. Antonio Gates
4. Jason Witten
5. Tony Gonzalez
6. JerMichael Finley
7. Brent Celek
8. Visanthe Shiancoe
9. Owen Daniels
10. Chris Cooley
11. John Carlson
12. Dustin Keller
13. Kellen Winslow
14. Brandon Pettigrew
15. Jermaine Gresham
16. Greg Olsen
17. Zach Miller
18. Heath Miller
19. Jeremy Shockey
20. Kevin Boss
21. Mercedes Lewis
22. Benjamin Watson
23. Anthony Fasano
24. Fred Davis
25. Tony Scheffler
26. Todd Heap
27. Bo Scaife
28. David Thomas
29. Aaron Hernandez
30. Donald Lee

Fantasy WR Ranks

Top 40 Wide Receivers Ranks

1. Andre Johnson
2. Larry Fitzgerald
3. Randy Moss
4. Reggie Wayne
5. Brandon Marshall
6. Roddy White
7. Calvin Johnson
8. Miles Austin
9. Sidney Rice
10. Greg Jennings
11. DeSean Jackson
12. Anquan Boldin
13. Vincent Jackson
14. Steve Smith (CAR)
15. Chad Ochocinco
16. Hakim Nicks
17. Marques Colston
18. Steve Smith (NYG)
19. Percy Harvin
20. Michael Crabtree
21. Hines Ward
22. Mike Sims-Walker
23. Jeremy Maclin
24. Dwayne Bowe
25. Santana Moss
26. Dez Bryant
27. Donald Driver
28. Mike Wallace
29. Steve Breaston
30. Malcom Floyd
31. Devin Aromashodu
32. Eddie Royal
33. Robert Meachem
34. Braylon Edwards
35. Kenny Britt
36. Lee Evans
37. Nate Burleson
38. Pierre Garcon
39. Derrick Mason
40. Mohamed Massaquoi

Fantasy QB Ranks

Top 30 Quarterback Ranks

1. Aaron Rodgers
2. Drew Brees
3. Peyton Manning
4. Tom Brady
5. Tony Romo
6. Matt Schaub
7. Phillip Rivers
8. Joe Flacco
9. Eli Manning
10. Matt Ryan
11. Brett Favre
12. Jay Cutler
13. Donovan McNabb
14. Kevin Kolb
15. Matthew Stafford
16. Carson Palmer
17. Chad Henne
18. Alex Smith
19. David Garrard
20. Matt Cassel
21. Ben Roethlisberger
22. Mark Sanchez
23. Matt Moore
24. Jason Campbell
25. Vince Young
26. Matt Leinhart
27. Brady Quinn
28. Matt Hasselbeck
29. Sam Bradford
30. Josh Freeman

Fantasy RB Ranks

Top 30 Running Back Ranks

1. Chris Johnson
2. Ray Rice
3. Adrian Peterson
4. Maurice Jones-Drew
5. Steven Jackson
6. Michael Turner
7. Frank Gore
8. Rashard Mendenhall
9. DeAngelo Williams
10. Cedric Benson
11. Shonn Greene
12. Ryan Grant
13. Beanie Wells
14. Jamaal Charles
15. Knowshon Moreno
16. Pierre Thomas
17. LeSean McCoy
18. Ronnie Brown
19. Ryan Matthews
20. Joseph Addai
21. Jahvid Best
22. Jonathan Stewart
23. C.J. Spiller
24. Brandon Jacobs
25. Felix Jones
26. Jerome Harrison
27. Thomas Jones
28. LaDainian Tomlinson
29. Clinton Portis
30. Matt Forte

College Pro Prospects 11-15

College Pro Prospects

11. Julio Jones WR Alabama- Jones returns for his junior season looking to repeat as national champion. The Tides hopes of that weigh again heavily on Jones who’s 6-4 211 frame offers great blocking downfield as well as a dangerous red zone threat. A comparable player to A.J. Green of Georgia, Jones is a dominating figure on the field with deceptive speed that can turn short routes into big plays with his ability to break tackles. What I find appealing about Jones is his ability run block. A skill that often goes overlooked, the skill set to push corners and safeties for backs provided crucial in Alabama’s national championship. This year’s numbers won’t be impressive as they weren’t last year (596 yards 4 TD), yet Jones could become a player similar to Vincent Jackson of the San Diego Chargers. Look for him to peak around this position, depending on 40 times.

12. Jacquizz Rodgers RB Oregon State- Teams might in the long run overlook Rodgers potential. Though he is short in stature (5-7 188) he is a pure and simple game breaker. Rodgers will be in Heisman contention this year for the Beavers and if he can duplicate last year’s stats (1440 yards 21 TD plus 522 yards receiving) he might get it. Rodgers potential is a pro is intriguing. Even with his short size, playing in the right system will allow Rodgers to show off his elite speed and agility. If he is able to add on 10-12 lbs without losing his quickness, he should be a definite first rounder. A comparable player would be Dexter Jackson of the Philadelphia Eagles, yet with ability to play running back. Rodgers should prove to be an impactful player for wherever he lands.

13. Da’Quan Bowers DE Clemson- Can get lost in games at times, the amazingly athletically gifted Bowers who stands at 6-4 278 can be disruptive when on. A highly touted player in high school, Bowers has not lived up to expectations for the Tigers. Coming into his JR season, Bowers has the potential and skill set in place to dominate on defense and solidify a first round pick. If he can play on a consistent pace and stay healthy, Bowers will challenge for a higher selection.

14. Matt Reynolds OT BYU- A great pass blocker, Reynolds has proven he is an able fit at LT for any pro team. Coming in at an impressive size (6-6 329) he has the frame to add on more muscle mass and become a stronger run blocker. Playing in a pass first scheme at BYU does not serve to give an accurate account of what he would be capable of at the next level, yet his impressive pass blocking set should weigh in around the middle of the draft.

15. Evan Royster RB Penn State- Should be one of the first RB taken in the upcoming draft. The SR has adequate size for the position as well as accompanying speed. Royster is capable of sustaining large numbers of carriers as well as showing game breaking ability. Rodgers has more flare than Royster and will put up flashy stats, however for Royster, his solid rushing yards should put him in discussion for best back in the country and first picked. Royster has a balanced rushing style and shows excellent ability to break tackles and lower his pads. A similar player would be Jonathan Stewart of the Carolina Panthers. Royster has room to add weight, yet at 217 he doesn’t need it. Look for Heisman nomination and a lock in the first round.

NFL Prospects 6-10

Top College Pro Prospects 6-10

6. Bruce Carter LB North Carolina- Another piece in the loaded defense of UNC. Carter is an explosive linebacker who is punishing on ball carriers and QB alike. Statistics aren’t eye popping for the 6-3 235 Carter. 2.5 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss in 2009 are average at best. What is elite is the potential of the prospect who has shown elite speed and strength in combines (4.39- 40, Benched 440 and Squatted 605). With playmakers surrounding him, look for better stats in 2010 that equals a top-10 pick in the draft.

7. Von Miller LB Texas A&M- Depending on how NFL combine workouts go, Miller could shoot drastically high on this board. Last season he posted impressive numbers with 17 sacks (NCAA leading) and 44 tackles, 21 for loss. To go along with this playing from a “hybrid” spot in the Aggie scheme, Miller wreaked havoc on opposing offenses, constantly in plays, disrupting offensive flow. If Miller’s physical stats of 6-3 240 hold true, look for a lock in the top-10.

8. Gabe Carimi OT Wisconsin- Listed at 6-7 315, Carimi has the frame to add even more weight on, totaling a dangerous force at either side of the line. A redshirt senior, Carimi has started in every game of his college career, showing the durability of a lineman of that height. Powering the bruising run game of the Badgers, Carimi has shown that he has the tools to become a cornerstone in any NFL offensive. Barring an injury he could go as high as 3rd overall.

9. Adrian Clayborn DE Iowa- 2009 was an impressive season for the Hawkeye end. Posting 36 tackles, 20 of which for loss and 11.5 sacks, showed the explosiveness he has to get off the ball. Adequate physique, measuring at 6-4 285, fits his style of getting under blockers pads and getting to the QB. Clayborn is also somewhat of a playmaker as well, drawing 4 forced fumbles as a havoc from his end position. Watching him play draws comparisons to Robert Mathis of the Colts. With a slew of DE prospects in this year’s draft, Clayborn could fall significantly due to his height. However in terms of talent, he has the skills to become a productive pro.

10. Ryan Mallet QB Arkansas- Could compete for the top spot as the season goes, but for now the giant Razorback QB sits on the edge of the Top 10. Listed at 6-7 238, Mallet offers an interesting prospect at the QB position at that size. Blessed with a cannon for an arm, Mallet has the makings of an NFL QB. Mobility has been questioned as he struggles to move in the pocket, as well as accuracy downfield, yet with coaching that should improve. Mallet has potential to hear his name called first in April if he can add to the season he had last year. If he struggles he still is a lock as at least a 2nd round pick. Mallet’s potential is limitless and should be fun to watch over the coming season.

2011 NFL Prospects

Top College Pro Prospects 1-5
1.Jake Locker QB Washington- Locker had he come out in 2010 would have given serious challenge to Sam Bradford as rights to be the first overall pick. Locker is listed at 6-3 226, an optimal height for an NFL QB, especially one with the speed he possesses. Locker has also displayed good arm strength and throwing motion that would transition well into a pro system. Locker as well displays certain intangibles that recently gave Tim Tebow a favorable selection in this year’s past draft. Locker’s leadership abilities and constant hustle on the field make him an ideal leader on any team. Though he will not overly impress with stats in his final year for the Huskies, his dual threat ability, leadership qualities, and ability to make those around him better should land him in the first pick of the 2011 draft.
2.A.J. Green WR Georgia- A better receiving class in 2011 than in 2010 and Green is the valedictorian. A player, who through the high school ranks and in college has made defensive backs look clueless, demonstrates so by possessing deceiving speed and pro caliber height. Listed at 6-4 205 the JR. looks like a pro with his physical attributes, though Green also has the qualities that make a top prospect in his ability to go after difficult to catch passes, he also has become a great route runner. Playing against the toughest competition in the country in the SEC, as well as the absence of a top flight QB for the Bulldogs, only further adds to the impressive 808 yards and 6 TD last year for a WR like Green. Look for a lock in the top 5 as the draft draws near.
3.Andrew Luck QB Stanford- Luck, if he were to stay in school another year would be a lock for the top spot, however with the ability shown last year and a shallow QB class in 2011, he should make the jump to the pros. With that said, Andrew Luck given a strong performance in the upcoming campaign could indeed challenge Locker for best QB in the nation. October 30th in Seattle when the two square off, should be interesting with possible Heisman implications involved. Luck is your more traditional pocket QB listed at 6-4 235, yet with exceptional pocket mobility and well tuned accuracy (4 INT in 2009), the lack of speed is overlooked for pro-style systems. A good competitor and leader, Luck could accumulate a lot of hardware this year if he is able to lead Stanford to a conference title. As for his future, similarities to Phillip Rivers draw comparison with better mechanics.
4.Patrick Peterson CB LSU- Should grow in time to become a shut down corner he has proved to be in college. Peterson who is listed at 6-1, 211, has ideal size for the corner spot, and showed last season his ability to stifle skilled and taller receivers A.J. Green and Julio Jones to 7 receptions between the both. Another impressive stat for Peterson was his 15 defended against passes, 2 of which he intercepted. I draw comparisons to recently drafted Eric Berry as a resemblance to Petersons in his agility and awareness to disrupt plays. Given health, he should go on to a very successful pro career at the corner spot or even a transition to safety.
5.Robert Quinn DE North Carolina- Listed at 6-5 270, the ferocious Tar Heel end has massive potential in a 3-4 system at OLB. Forcing 15 QB pressures to go along with 16 tackles for loss and 11 sacks in 2009, Quinn is prime to become the next great pass rusher in the NFL. He has shown ability to get off the snap fast enough, as well as showing adequate technique to get past college blockers. His speed and size offer the biggest upside if he were used in a 3-4 along with his impressive ability to stop the run. Quinn and other teammates Bruce Carter and Marvin Austin all will be first round picks in their own right, only adding to the danger of the Tar Heel defense in 2010. Yet it is Quinn who shows the most potential for a long and prosperous NFL career.

Fantasy Players 16-25

16. Randy Moss- We can all tell that the ageing Moss is not what he once was but he still is one of the best WR in the league, even at 33. Last year’s numbers were impressive, including 13 TD. With the Patriots uncertain about the health of Welker, they could lean even heavier on Moss for production. I still see him putting up 1,200 yards and 12 TD this season, though look for struggles early on as Welker improves for a mid season arrival.

17. Reggie Wayne- Closely behind his Patriot rival, Wayne, like every season, should be the go to receiver for Peyton Manning as the Colts look to get back to the Super Bowl. Wayne will have support of Anthony Gonzalez who returns from injury and Dallas Clark to deflect his presence, yet these players might also steals some scores. As to that the emergence of Donald Brown and a confidence in the run game could cap Wayne’s potential to career averages. I would say 1,150 yards and 9 TD are reasonable numbers to predict.

18. Peyton Manning- They don’t come more reliable than Peyton. The Colts signal caller is set up again for another great season with improvements to the running game and the WR position in the maturity of Brown and return of Gonzalez. Manning who threw for 4,500 yards last year looks to improve on these numbers in 2010. For Manning the biggest criticism is the 16 interceptions thrown last year. Hopefully the return of Gonzalez will allow for Manning not to force to Wayne as he did in 09’. Projected numbers should be around 4,600 yards and 30 TD.

19. Ryan Grant- An impressive group surrounds the Packers RB. Grant who can get lost at times in games posted great numbers last year, ranking 7th in the league in rushing. A downside for Grant though is the penchant Green Bay has for the passing game. Grant who isn’t known for his long runs could see his TD totals drop, yet the yards produced should be there. Something around 1,300 yards and 7 TD should be in the ballpark.

20. Brandon Marshall- The new Dolphin comes to a team ready to breakout. A healthy Ronnie Brown should only help matters as the Fins look to compete for a playoff spot. Marshall proved last year that a star QB is not necessary to put up elite stats. Look to see the Dolphins to go to Marshall early as he steps in as the receiver they have craved for years. Playing in a run oriented offense might hinder Marshall’s real potential to put up numbers similar to Andre Johnson; however 1,200 yards and 8 TD would be decent to expect.

21. Roddy White- The Falcons have a dangerous line up this year, and don’t be surprised to see them deep in the playoffs. Fortunate to have a QB like Ryan and a running back in Turner, White should prove to be the game breaker in the Falcons air attack. After a breakout year last year, White has potential to break through to become an elite WR in the league. Similar to Marshall, White has skills to put up impressive numbers, yet a run focused team will steal many scoring chances. Imagine 1,200 yards and 7 TD.

22. Tom Brady- This ranking is subject to move two or three spots higher, depending on the health of Wes Welker. Brady is still one of the best in the game; however the surrounding cast has lost a bit of their luster. Uncertainty of Logan Mankins on the line, and the age of Moss, only adds to the Patriots woes. Moreover, the lack of a running game will force Brady more often than he would like. Expect 4,500 yards and 28 TD.

23. Calvin Johnson- Watch out for the Lions this year. With Matt Stafford having his rookie year under his belt and the addition of Nate Burleson opposite of Johnson, the Lions have a potent passing game. Johnson based on ability, is the best in the league. Yet for the former Yellow Jacket, he has not been blessed with an adequate QB. Stafford showed last year he is a potential Pro-Bowler in years to come and with that should come success with Johnson. Numbers for 2010 are 1,100 yards and 8 TD.

24. Beanie Wells- The potential for Wells this year is immense. With the exit of Warner and the focus on the run, Wells will be the workhorse for the Cards offense. Uncertainty at QB should entice teams to stack the box, yet with Fitzgerald drawing attention of his own, Wells should produce at a league leading level. Projected numbers are 1,150 yards and 10 TD as a realistic number the bruising back.

25. Jamaal Charles- Though he may not start at the beginning of the year, Charles will certainly be starting by season’s end. Stuck behind Thomas Jones on the depth-chart, Charles possesses a skill set of speed and agility Jones lacks. Charles’ elusive ability to make smooth cuts and find running lanes will show home run hitting ability for a team in desperate search of that type of player. If not for Jones, Charles would be a top 10 player, yet with him stealing carries, Charles will be forced to work for the extra time. Projections should be in the 1,000 yards and 9 TD range with at least 200 yards receiving.