Ask Papa Weimer Fantasy Football Know-It-All July 30

You got questions? I still got answers. I hear some of you punks out there are doubting how well an old fart can work his way into a fantasy championship – but never question tricky old people; look at Trent Green, he tricked his way right into a new contract and a starting job. – Papa Weimer

Drop me your Fantasy Questions @ papaweimer50@hotmail.com

I just got done drafting my best fantasy team of all time. Everything seemed to work out for me, even getting Carson Palmer in the 3rd round. Let me know how you think I did.
(1.7 Larry Johnson, 2.6 Maurice Jones Drew, 3.7 Carson Palmer, 4.6 Reggie Wayne, 5.7 Ahman Green, 6.6 Javon Walker, 7.7 DeAngelo Williams, 8.6 Kellen Winslow 9.7 Deion Branch 10.6 Mark Clayton, 11.7 Michael Turner, 12.6 Matt Leinart, 13.7 Panthers Defense, 14.6 Jay Cutler, 15.7 Daniel Graham, and 16.6 Jason Elam). – Joe Dominguez, LA, CA.

I don’t know, Larry Johnson might not play – Jones Drew is in a committee gig – Carson Palmer might regress a year after knee surgery – Reggie Wayne looks to have lost a step in camp thus far – Ahman Green is older than dirt – Javon Walker will never be the same after his big knee problem – DeAngelo Williams hasn’t taken the starting spot from incompetent DeShaun Foster – Kellen Winslow had another knee surgery this off season – Deion Branch struggled last year without Tom Brady – Mark Clayton plays with an old quarterback in a run first, second, and maybe pass on 3rd and long offense – Michael Turner is behind the best back in the league – Matt Leinart is only a sophomore in a run first offense – the Panther’s never meet expectations – Jay Cutler won’t get close to the 25 touchdowns many are predicting – Daniel Graham has a talented rookie at TE in Denver, and never met his high draft pick status in New England – and Jason Elam’s leg isn’t as long as it used to be……… Hahaha… I’m just kidding. I just thought I’d scare you with some questions about all your guys. Your team is awesome. Were you drafting with your kids’ soccer team? Branch, Cutler, Wayne, and Palmer are all pretty good deals. Nice job drafting a few options at running back if LJ doesn’t play early. He’s a great value at 1.7. Jones Drew could be the highest fantasy scorer of the bunch in 2007. Nice work, Joe.

I’ve got a full blown fantasy crush on Phillip Rivers in San Diego. He’s not even getting picked in the Top 10 QBs in the drafts I’ve been in. How can he go that low when he just picked up offensive guru, Norv Turner, to improve upon his 22 TDs last season? – Fresh Sly in Winston Salem, NC.

Man crush – that’s a way to put it I haven’t yet heard. Well, in this case, I’m with you, Sly. Rivers should only improve in 2007. Mart-Mart Schotty was always a little to gun-shy to pull the trigger on his young signal caller, but I have a feeling Norv will let him throw down-wind. Rivers had nice numbers last season, especially for a guy who threw less than 25 times in 5 games last year. His 92 rating is special for a first year starter, and I only expect him to get better as Vincent Jackson grows into a true #1. To answer your question, I don’t know how he can go that low, I’d take him just after the Top 6, maybe 7 or 8, depending on the league.

Thank God! Football is beginning. I’ve been under the “Baseball, Golf, Racing” painful sports summer, but the smell of football camp is in the air. My draft is in two weeks, and I have to keep 3 players from Carson Palmer, Lee Evans, Javon Walker, Edgerrin James, and Willie Parker. The league is a PPR league, gives the same point total for all touchdowns, and length totals for TD passes, receptions, and rushes are all the same. Also, you start two quarterbacks, two running backs, and three receivers. Who would you keep? – Sam Wise in Seattle.

It truly is painful when you have to give up great players from the team you drafted last year, but no matter who you choose to keep, you will be doing exactly that in this situation. I’d keep Palmer because of the scoring format – he’ll be a Top 5 guy guaranteed; maybe even the best in the league (with two quarterbacks starting, he’s an awesome player to have). Then I’d go for Willie Parker. Many people think the open passing offense in Pittsburgh will hurt his value, but I’m not one of the many. He’ll catch 55 balls this year (at least 20 more than any other season), so he’s even more valuable in a PPR league. The next one would be even tougher in a normal league, Edgerrin, Javon, and Lee are all great options. You can’t go wrong, but I’d roll the dice on Lee. He’s a long touchdown champion, always getting 35+ yard catches, and is a TD possibility anywhere on the field. You have tough decisions ahead of you, my little hobbit friend, but fight the ring’s urge, and you will succeed. Go RB, WR, then QB in the next few rounds. Make sure you have two good QB options in a 2 QB starting league.

I have the 11th pick in my dynasty draft, I’m going to pick Brian Westbrook… I have a couple days, and am planning on taking the full time period. The next top guys on the board are Willie Parker, Maurice Jones Drew, Willis McGahee, and Shaun Alexander – Can you advise me to go with someone ahead of Westy? – Tommy Steak in Philly.

I would indeed advise you to go with Mr. Jones-Drew. The kid is a legit 22 year old wonder boy who just happens to have years of world (league) domination in his future. He may not pay full dividends right away, but as far as keepers go, he’s right up there. With the 11th pick, you probably have a 2nd rounder coming fast, and with that pick I’d take Westy or Parker, and if they’re not available – roll the dice on Willis. I don’t know what that young underachieve is talking about, but he’s a way better keeper option than Shaun of the Alexander. Shaunna is old and rickety, and you don’t want to have this year’s Tiki Barber on your fantasy dynasty. Young and talented will never kill you in dynasty leagues.

I’m an English bloke, from Manchester. I’m in to this football business, as a couple of my friends got me into a high wager yearly fantasy league a few years back. I won my first year on dumb luck, but struggled to score points last year, going 3-10. I want to show these American donkeys that I wasn’t a one year wonder. I pulled the 2nd pick, but I’ve already received a trade offer that has me giving up the 2nd pick for the 11th and 14th overall – would you take that deal? – Ian Highley in Korea (South).

Ah, the sure thing in Steven Jackson, or two guys you’re hoping do what Ste-Jack did last year… Hmmm…. I’d take the trade. Not only will you cripple the guy giving you his second pick, (he won’t pick again until the 35th pick in the draft, but you’ll have a chance to get two very good players, and even spend a high pick on a WR (which I rarely do) or a quarterback (which I’ve done once). You will likely have a shot at guys like Thomas Jones, Travis Henry, or even Brian Westbrook, Willie Parker, and Clinton Portis with your new 1st and 2nd. With your 3rd pick (still Round 2) you can grab the best RB available, and now you have 3 top 20 RBs, and you can start filling out your team in Round 3. Truly, this is your blessing to show your republican snakes and democratic doormats that you Europeans can surely pick a fantasy winner. Steven Jackson is tough to give up, but he’s not worth two Top 12 running backs. Take the trade and kill two birds with one pick.

I have Ahman Green, Maurice Jones-Drew, Brandon Jacobs, Thomas Jones, and Marshawn Lynch at RB in a PPR league. My top receivers are Hines Ward, Mark Clayton, and Braylon Edwards. I’ve recently had a trade offer giving me Marvin Harrison for Marshawn Lynch – would you take the deal? I start 2 RBs and 2 WRs with a flex. – Dora in Mississippi.

Miss Dora, I most certainly would. Harrison is old, but he should still be good to go this season. He’s bound to catch 85 balls, gain 1,200 yards, and real in double digits in the TD department. He’s an upgrade at your #1 receiving spot and losing Lynch doesn’t kill you if he’s gone. He might have a huge year, but with Jones, Drew, and even the touchdown happy Jacobs in the backfield, you have a pretty good unit anyway. I don’t think you have to do this trade, as your WRs are decent. But Harrison is a top guy, and will make your team better right now.

Last Weeks Questions

Papa Weimer – **52 y/o – two open Heart surgeries and a nasty attitude**

Ask Papa Weimer Fantasy Football Know-It-All July 20

You got questions? I still got answers. My “Football Genius” Nephew wants to keep that “Know-It-All” up on the page – fine, but I don’t like his sarcastic tone one bit. This kid builds a popular site in three years and now he thinks he’s some kind of football guru – like I haven’t played the game longer than he’s been alive. Right now, I’ll chase him down and tackle his ass into the dirt just for taking the last slice of pie, and he knows it. I’m wild. Just last weekend I helped coach a team to my first Championship in 42 years of football. It feels good to be #1. – Papa Weimer

Drop me your Fantasy Questions @ papaweimer50@hotmail.com

I have two bad habits, Papa; I smoke a pack or two a day and I bleed Steeler black and gold. One seems to kill me in real life (or so my nephew tells me), and the other seems to kill me in my Fantasy life. I’m promising not to reach this season; what are a couple good rounds to get the best of the Steel Crew? – Slim Peterman in Beaver Falls Pennsylvania.

Slim, stop smoking immediately – my nephew told me that if you smoke a pack a day you lose a day per week – that means you’re living 6 day weeks my man, almost as bad as going 0-13 in fantasy football because you drafted a team full of Steelers. My Nephew has some solid fantasy rankings and WR rankings which should help you, but if that doesn’t do the job, here’s a couple examples from my latest dynasty draft – Willie Parker went 6th overall, which I think is solid for him. I wouldn’t go any higher than 5th, but he’s a good option in the 1st round. Santonio Holmes was picked 80th and Big Ben went 82nd. Holmes will go a little lower in seasonal drafts, but I think he could have a big year in a Steeler offense that will be more open in 2007. Ben had a tough year, but he still tossed a bunch of touchdowns. I got Hines Ward 110th overall, which I thought was the biggest steal on draft day. Ward is very good, and should be picked in the top 20 wide receivers, easily. He’s going low in drafts because he struggled last year with Ben playing poorly. However, he still had a nice year. Playing in 14 games, Ward managed 74 grabs just under 1000 yards and 6 scores. That’s a decent year. Get him in the 7th or 8th and you have yourself a great option late. Other than that, you can get Heath Miller in the last couple rounds, and I think he’s worth a roster spot that late. Jeff Reed still has to kick in Pittsburgh, which is always tough, so I’d steer clear of him. The Steeler defense will get a boost from Mike Tomlin’s arrival, but they’re not a Top 5 unit, so unless they fall to you toward the end of the draft, last couple rounds, leave them be. That’s about it for Steelers – don’t you dare draft Jerome Bettis.

Every single fantasy magazine out there has LT finishing the season atop the charts for the second straight year. I know Faulk did it a couple seasons in a row, as did the Priest, but chances are LT2 won’t do it again. Do you have a dark-horse for the #1 spot for RBs at seasons’ end? – Sheldon Wing on my way to San Francisco, California.

Sheldon, I have exactly that. Many may get a good laugh, but let me explain why I think Maurice Jones Drew could lead the league in rushing, and quite possibly overtake Tomlinson for the #1 fantasy rusher. 1st of all, nobody in the AFC South can stop the run (besides Jacksonville of course) so Jaguar runners will have open fields to prance in all season long. But here’s the kicker, Fred Taylor hasn’t been injured in a couple seasons, which, by all means, insists he’s due. If Jones Drew gets 350 carries he’ll rush for right around 1,800 yards, putting him right up there as a league leader. Drew is also expected to be an even bigger threat out of the backfield, and last year, as a #2 rusher, MJD caught 46 balls for 436 yards and 2 scores. Drew’s 15 scores would increase to the low 20s if he’s a 20 carry per game guy in Jacksonville. Remember, you’re looking for a dark-horse, and I’m saying MJD is a Fred Taylor injury away from being a Top 3 fantasy running back, and if the stars align right, the best of the bunch.

Papa, your nephew has Steve Smith and Terrell Owens resting at the tip-top of his receiver rankings. I say its going to be Marvin Harrison and Chad Johnson – What you thinking? – Crum in Atlanta, Georgia.

Personally, I’m a little different than both you and Mr. Lester. I think Larry Fitzgerald and Roy Williams will lead the receivers in fantasy football. Larry is a huge fantasy explosion waiting to happen. With Anquan Boldin used more in “special plays” and Edgerrin James’ rushing game getting more looks, Larry Fitz looks to get some 1 on 1 coverage – and that makes him legit. Plus, I have a feeling he’s going to play all 16 games this year, and those Cards will be throwing the ball late in games. As for Roy Williams, this is his 4th season in the league, and he was a beast last year. The Bears, Packers, and Vikings are all bad against the pass, and Calvin Johnson’s presence will only help Mr. Williams this season – just wait and see. There’s my two dollars.

I don’t see why Antonio Gates isn’t always taken in the first couple rounds. Isn’t he way better than the 2nd guy (Shockey, Gonzalez, or Todd Heap)? Could you explain to me why one wouldn’t grab the best guy at his position early? Isn’t he worth it? – Paulie Porche up in Weed, CA

Ah, young Luke Skywalker (Paulie Porche, I see through your disguise) I see so many errors in your ways. Sure, Gates is better than the #2 guy, but is he 3 rounds better? Not a chance. Look at it this way – what kind of starting running backs can you get in the 6th round of the draft? Now what kind of TE’s can you get? That’s the value killer for picking Gates early. AG is the best TE in the league, but Gonzalez and Heap are close, while a 6th round running back is much worse than a 2nd round guy. Would you rather have Thomas Jones or Deshaun Foster? That’s the difference. You may not get the best TE in the game, but if you feel like it, you can get a damn good one in rounds 6-8 while there isn’t a decent starting running back option that late in any drafts. Fantasy football is all about value young Luke – now stop trying to get with your sister and just become Darth Vador already.

This is the 3rd season for a couple solid prospects at WR – I’m looking to draft one or two of them, Reggie Brown and Matt Jones are at the top of my list – can you think of any other nice choices? – Duncan DD’s all the way over in England

Lucky Lester has a nice article about 3rd year WRs, titled 3rd Year Wide Receiver Mantra: A hoax?. It’s a solid piece. For you, Mr. Double-D, I too rank Reggie Brown #1 – he’ll be a solid Top 10 contributor for Philly – but before Matt Jones, I’d take a shot on Mark Clayton and Braylon Edwards. Both are part of a poor passing game, but they are both ahead of Jones in my book. Clayton is going to be more consistent than anyone in the bunch. He runs perfect routes, has great hands, and can get deep – if here were bigger he’d be the perfect package. Edwards is a touchdown highlight waiting to happen – he makes some great catches, but he’ll struggle with poor quarterback play for much of next season. He’s going to be a beast, though – so I think his long term dynasty ranking is as good or better than any of the 4 guys we’ve talked about. Top 4 for me, Brown, Clayton, Edwards, and Jones. Long-shot to hit Top 20 status this season; Troy Williamson. I know, that’s crazy talk – but I’m giving you a long-shot here. Williamson got his eyes fixed, and I know personally how much more confidence that gives you. His QB situation stinks as well, though.

Papa Weimer, I’ve heard many people tell me its best to start your draft by picking RB, RB, WR, WR, QB, and then a backup RB. Do you agree with this? What draft strategy do you use? – Captain Carl in Compton, CA

I am a RB, RB, RB, RB, RB, RB drafting kinda guy. I will only halt my RB “Round-Up” when there are no more starting RBs left. The logic being; I can always get a fairly solid QB through Trades or even very late in the draft, and WRs are a dime a dozen, with only really 3-4 pass catchers worth a pick in the first 5 or 6 rounds. So let’s say it is my 5th pick and IND/WR Marvin Harrison is Available, but so is NYG/RB Brandon Jacobs; I take Jacobs every time. RBs are too valuable, QBs can be found and they too all about the same after top four or 5. In short, draft RBs until something falls in your lap you can’t pass on, say McNabb falls to 5th round, grab him, but go right back to RBs in next round. Even if you start slow, you’ll be able to pick up a stud receiver via trade or waiver wire – not to mention guys like DJ Hackett, Brandon Marshall, Devery Henderson, and others can be had late.

Last Weeks Questions

Papa Weimer – **52 y/o – two open Heart surgeries and a nasty attitude**

Ask Papa Weimer Fantasy Football Know-It-All July 07

My Uncle (goes by Papa) has been playing football since he came out of the womb, and the guy still suits up for Semi-Pro action to this day. Until recently, the 52 year old had been sticking to coaching, but with his team in need of some special teams help, he suited up, crammed into some old gear, and smashed hats for the last two games of the season. You won’t hear him brag about his level of play, but at 52, with two open heart surgeries under his cap and gown, measuring only 5’8″, and weighing in at 235lbs – Papa Weimer’s as good as it gets. Does his football gumption stop there, you ask? Not a chance. After a couple years listening to him dice my fantasy blunders to smithereens, and tell me week after week that he should be giving fantasy football advice – I finally gave him free-run to do any kind of writing his twice-broken heart desires. He said he’d like to start with answering reader’s questions. So, like any good nephew, I threw some questions his way. I dug his fearless style, and overall “old man humor” so I’m giving him his own column. If you have any questions you’d like asked, please toss a line to papaweimer50@hotmail.com. As for Papa W – here’s his first published column since college – which was about 5 million years ago. – Lucky Lester

You got questions? I got answers. I wouldn’t call myself a know it all, but only because that sounds bad. The truth of the matter is, there isn’t anything I don’t know. Need trade, draft, add/drop, keeper, or seasonal advice? I got your apples right here. Actually, need love advice? -Go ahead and break those out, too. – Papa Weimer

I’ve been having trouble sleeping with my keeper league cut date coming up. I have only two keepers from a top talent group of Antonio Gates, Carson Palmer, Willie Parker, Chester Taylor, Hines Ward, and DeAngelo Williams. Needless to say, my team didn’t dominate last year, so I need some help. My league gives bonuses for big passing, rushing, and receiving days; it’s a PPR league and gives 6 points for each touchdown. Who would you keep? Also, my league allows us to select one collegian for the future – and we get him next year. Any advice on that? – Chuck D in Oakland.

Charles, this is how I do keeper leagues. Put every guy into a round that you think he should be selected. Take your highest guys, keep them, and toss the rest to the dogs. From the looks of it, you don’t look like you have any swinging deals after Fast Willie Parker – needless to say, he’s a must have as one of your 2 selections. Hines Ward could have a great year in the Steelers new open offense, and DeAngelo Williams might be solid in the future – but neither is worthy of your pick. That leaves Taylor, Gates and Palmer. Gates is a TE, and though a great option, he’s a TE. He’s out. Taylor is in a RBBC with a young touchdown machine from Oklahoma, Adrian Peterson – so he’s not a solid pick. And while Carson isn’t a top 2 round selection, keeping him in a league that gives 6 for passing scores makes him a solid option. You better grab a couple running backs in a hurry, come draft day. As for some top collegian talent, go for a ball carrier. McFadden is a stone cold pimp, but he’s easy – here’s a couple sleeper picks for you to ponder; Jonathan Stewart (he’s got all the size to carry the load, and the moves to make a run at the Heisman), Felix Jones (plays second fiddle to McFadden, but he’s got enough size, plenty of speed, and vision to start in the league), Steve Slaton (Wow! Vick-like moves, no dog murders), and Ray Rice (5’9″ – but tough, like me, never doubt short guys).

I’m a Sooner fan like nobodies business, and I’m dying to get my hands on Adrian Peterson in everyone of the 7 keeper leagues that I’m in. Right now, in one of my full-team dynasty leagues, I’m offering Joseph Addai for DeAngelo Williams and Adrian Peterson. I think they other owner will say, yes. Do you think that’s too much to give for my boy? – J-Dizzle in ‘Sota

J_Dizzle in ‘Sota, eh? You should come G it up with some of the guys I coach with up here in the Northwest. As for your trade, yeah, you’re right; I think you’re giving up a ton to get two prospects. Both Williams and Peterson have the skills to do dirty things in the League, but neither of them has even peeled potatoes thus far. To be honest, if you get to keep your full team every year, this trade isn’t as crazy as it sounds. Addai, in my opinion, is a Top 5 back, but Williams is a CH away from being the starter in Carolina, and you have to believe that Chester Taylor won’t be able to hold off AP for more than 5 or 6 games. I don’t like to mix fantasy football with home-town guys, but in the long term, no, I don’t think you’re giving up way too much to get your boy. Next season, however, you’re all but killing your chances to win your league. And you might be giving away a 7 year star in Addai.

I’m searching the waiver wire in my league for a young receiver that has a bright future. I think there are still a few gems out there for me to get my hands on. I have the room to get young, as my starters are TO, TJ Housh, and Darrell Jackson. Out of Demetrius Williams, Brandon Marshal, Craig Davis, DJ Hackett, and Reggie Williams – which ones should I grab? – Fat Harp at the U of Washington

Nice nickname; but let it be known, you’re not the only one in this column to live a life with “fat” in front of his name. If I had a dollar for every time I was called Fat Weimer, I think I’d be able to trade in my dump of a truck (not to be confused with dump-truck) for a nice new Hemi-rolling man machine. As for your sleeper search, go no further than DJ and Marshal. It’s hard for me to believe that those two snipers are still lingering in the bushes for you to pick up, but since they are, don’t waste one more second of time – do the damn thing. If you have to choose one or the other, I’d got with D-Hack, who’s more of a sure thing, just because he’s a good kid and a hard worker. Marshal might have more upside, as Rod Smith’s injury concerns will spring him to the #2 spot with a young gun-slinger who can throw bombs. By seasons’ end, you might be starting one of those two young men.

I’m heading into my first fantasy draft in a couple weeks, as I’ve been trying to fight the fantasy movement for quite a few years now. Have any advice for this old fart? – Elmer Zimmer in Lynden, Washington

Lynden? RUN! Get out while you still can! Hurry, before they fine you for your lawn being too long. Yeah, I’ve been to your home town, and I must say, the fact that they don’t serve you any booze on Sunday had me searching for a new town to watch a game. But, Elmer, aside from my moving advice, I think I can spare a word on this little fantasy football thing. 1- Don’t be a Hawk fan on draft day: Like every other guy, you surely love your home-town Hawks, but don’t bite the bullet to get one of them. Most likely, there will be other guys picking Sea-Chickens too high, leaving lots of good value for you. 2- Please, please pick running backs with at least 2 of your first 3 picks, if not all of them. You’ll thank me later. 3- Don’t draft a kicker, a TE, or a defense until late. This year, more than any before, the TE spot is deep (even the Hawks boy Marcus Pollard might do well, and he rarely gets drafted), while K’s and D’s shouldn’t ever be plucked until late. 4- Make fun of people in your league at every turn. Drafting is a blast. Winning the league is even more fun. But nothing is better than verbally dominating your fantasy brethren. Easy on the wife and kids jokes though – they ruffle feathers something fierce.

I’m in a “Big Money” seasonal league (12 team, 6,000 in prize money – 1 year) where the draft is taking forever (8 days deep, and halfway through the 2nd round. I snagged Larry Johnson with the 5th pick. My second selection is two picks away, and these are the top 7 guys on my board; Edgerrin James, Willis McGahee, Carson Palmer, Torry Holt, Chad Johnson, TO,Thomas Jones and Larry Fitzgerald – who would you take? The starting lineup is 1 QB, 2 RB, 2 WR, 1 Flex, 1 TE, 1 K, and 1 D… – Kurt Ull in St. Augustine, Florida

Now this is a tough decision Curdle… Lets dwindle for a second. Palmer’s a QB – so he’s out. Torry Holt will get less opportunities to shine with Drew Bennett and Randy McMichael in Rams uniforms – so he’s out – but still a nice option for your 3rd rounder if he’s available. TO’s great, but too loose a cannon (think 70’s porn-star loose) for a 2nd round pick in my opinion – nice 3rd rounder though. Larry Fitz is going to be great, but I still think he won’t be that much better than some of the guys you can get in Round 3 – so pass on him. Chad Johnson always has great numbers, but he can be very average for half the weeks during a given season – and while many would suggest taking him, I’d pass. That leaves you with Edge, Thomas Jones, and Willis. The whole world seems ready to give up on Edge and make McGahee a Pro-Bowler, but I’m not so sold. What you talkin’ ’bout Willis? McGahee didn’t have a great line, but regardless, he just hasn’t impressed me as a pro. He’s never averaged more than 4 yards a carry. He may have a better team, and a nice looking offensive line, but for a 2nd round pick, I want a sure thing. As for Edge, I wouldn’t give up on him yet, he’s got a new coach that wants to give him the ball… a lot. But, he struggled last year, and the desert has meant death for RBs. So, I’m advising you to pick up the ex-Cardinal who, like Jesus, came back from the dead. Yes, since TJ left AZ, his game has been legit. The Jets used a lot of backs last year, but none of them can hold a candle to Thomas. They have a mean offensive line, all youngsters, and a very smart coach. Jones finally will have the job from day 1, he’ll prove his worth. I expect about 1,400 yards and 10 scores from him. That’s a nice 2nd round pick.

This donkey in my dynasty league offered me a trade, and while I’m pretty sure I’m going to accept, can you think of any reason for me to stand pat on this? The trade nets me Donovan McNabb, Marion Barber, and his 1st Round pick next year (probably in the 4-8 range), for Travis Henry and Tony Romo. As of now, I have Brian Westbrook, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Caddy, Henry, and White at RB, with Romo and Rivers at QB… I figure Barber gives me a young back with tons of talent, while McNabb gives me a better chance to win this year. Any thoughts? – Corky in Coquitlam, Canada

Before reading where you were from, I was vexed as to how you managed to steal Westbrook, Portis, Gore, Williams, and Travis Henry in one league, but then I realized, you probably have some buddies that are plucking CFL stars like Charles Roberts, Joffrey Reynolds, Ricky Williams and Robert Edwards instead of NFL guys. It’s all starting to come together, now dip those fries in something besides mayonnaise, and we can talk. Honestly, I don’t think I would do this trade. I know McNabb may seem like a sure thing at QB, but with his injury history and age, I find that hard to believe. Not too many are hot on Romo these days, but he’s in a great situation to do big things, while Phillip Rivers is a year or two away from going to the Pro Bowl. Barber has age on Travis, and if he gets the Lions’ share in Dallas – he’ll be a nice starting option, but I have a feeling TH is about to blow up in Denver’s offense. I’ve said it for years, if Travis Henry can find himself in a Bronco uniform; he’ll finish the year with Terrell Davis-like stats. I never thought it would happen, but now that it did, I’m sticking to my guns. If you want to win the title this year, keep Henry and watch him outscore your other star backs on way to carrying you to a championship. The 1st rounder next year is intriguing, as there’ll be 4 or 5 good backs available. However, Henry is a good back – a very good one, and in a great situation. Stand pat C in C,C.

Papa Weimer – **52 y/o – two open Heart surgeries and a nasty attitude**

2007 NFL Season Preview

It is a crazy time in the NFL these days, most of the teams in the league are good. I’m not saying parody has sprung upon us like DVD’s, reality TV, and gum, but there are so many good teams in the nfl, every week has become a battle so intense, anything can happen. This season preview, prior to the draft, is exactly how I see things leveling out during the 2007-2008 season. I’ve taken into account schedules, last seasons outcome, and free agency up until the most recent happenings around the league. What a year it will be!

NFC Predictions

NFC North

1. Chicago Bears: (11-5) While I don’t think the Chicago Bears will make it back to the NFC Finals, I do think they are the toast of the NFC North. The Packers are getting better, especially defensively, but I really don’t see the Pack threatening the Bears for the North Crown.

2. Green Bay Packers: (8-8) I love the young Packer defense. Truly, they’re only getting better, and when draft day comes around, I’m sure they’ll start getting more athletic too. The truth is, while the Packers didn’t improve greatly through free agency, their primarily rookie offensive line of a year ago is now a year older, that will help Brett Favre, and whomever gets the starting RB job in Green Bay.

3. Detroit Lions: (6-10) I don’t like the Lions, but I like the Vikings less. At least the Lions have made a few moves that could caulk some leaks. Offensively, the Lions have plenty of talent, but I have yet to see much from the team defensively, especially now that Dre Bly finds himself locked and loaded to a new contract in Denver.

4. Minnesota Vikings: (2-14) It seems as the Minnesota and their Brass have no idea what they’re going to do offensively next season. Either that, or they know something I don’t. See, right now, all they have is a rushing attack, an inexperienced quarterback, and 3 wide receivers, none of which have proven worthy of being starters.

NFC East

1. Philadelphia Eagles: (12-4) If and when Donovan McNabb returns to full health, the Eagles certainly have the best, most consistent, and least problematic team in the NFC East, and quite possibly all of the NFC. With Westbrook turning into a sure-thing back, and Kearse returning, as well as adding a playmaker like Takeo Spikes, the Eagles are primed for a run at the NFC title.

2. Dallas Cowboys: (10-6) While the Cowboys have gone through quite the offseason coaching change, I have a feeling Wade Phillips’ style will help a Cowboys team that wasn’t really down with Parcells’ old school mid games. The bottom line is, Phillips sticks with his guns, and the Cowboys have plenty of ammo. Expect them to push the Eagles in the East.

3. Washington Redskins: (7-9) The Redskins may have purchased themselves a few more wins this off season, but I don’t see their team improving to the point of a playoff run. Sooner or later, the Skins will realize that trading away all their draft picks and picking up older “proven” players doesn’t always translate to team unity and playoff victories.

4. New York Giants: (6-10) The Giants are being led by a lame-duck coach, they lost their biggest offensive weapon, and their defense and offensive line is aging. Did I mention their secondary has more question marks than a Dr. Seuss book? You betcha. Expect this talented team to have mucho turmoil at ever turn.

NFC West

1. Seattle Seahawks: (10-6) The Seahawks struggled a year ago, and while I think they’ll be better in 2007, the fact is, their once easy-does-it conference has transformed into a bunch of teams ready to give the Hawks a run. For at least one more year, Alexander and the Hawks will make just enough moves to finish atop the West, and quite possibly squirt toward a meeting with the Eagles in the NFC Championship.

2. St. Louis Rams: (9-7) The Rams offense is filthy. In their second season under coach Linehan, Marc Bulger, Torry Holt, Steven Jackson and company will be ready to challenge for a playoff spot. If the Rams can add two to three starters to a young defense, by years end, they could be looking a playoff spot right in the eye.

3. San Francisco 49ers: (8-8) I don’t think the 49ers will morph into a playoff team this season, but .500 is there for the taking. Without Norv Turner around, its not like Alex Smith will melt. But, with or without Norv, I expect Smith to be yet another year away from having the game control to make the Niners a playoff team.

4. Arizona Cardinals: (6-10) I love the additions of the former Pittsburgh coaching staff, but will that immediately make the Cards a playoff hopeful? Hopeful, maybe, but contender? I’m not completely sold. Leinart looked good at times last year, and with Boldin and Fitz on the edges, how long will it be before Matt is tossing 300 yard games? Whisenhunt knows he needs some more defense before the playoffs are possible, but they’re closer than many think.

NFC South

1. Carolina Panthers: (11-5) While the South is surely a very tough conference, and the Panthers have done nothing but disappoint me over the past years, I still see a team that has it all. With Delhomme coming back, Steve Smith and who cares at receiver, Foster and D’Angelo in the backfield; these Panthers can be deadly. And that’s just on offense. No other team in this division has as many playmakers on defense as the Panthers. Health is key. If they stay healthy, 13 wins isn’t out of the question. Adding some depth has given me hope, even if a guy or two goes down.

2. New Orleans Saints: (10-6) The Saints are coming off quite the season yester year, nearly finding themselves in the Super Bowl. Offensively, the Saints have it all, but defensively, this is a team with plenty of holes. I think the Saints will take a small step backwards this year, to everyone’s surprise, but hey, that’s what happens from time to time, and people often get surprised.

3. Atlanta Falcons: (7-9) I don’t really like the Falcons. I love Jerious Norwood, but the Falcons seem reluctant to give this back, a kid who averaged 6+ yards a carry, the ball. Nice move. Their new coach wants a big back, and right now, Dunn (160lbs) and Norwood are their best offensive weapons this side of Mike Vick. Hmm. Seems like a recipe for close but not good enough.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: (6-10) And now I get to the Bucs. Its interesting because, if this and that happens, I can see any of the teams in this division walking into the playoffs. Even the Bucs, who are aging defensively, and are offensively stagnant, have done some things to make me ooh and ah. Caddy will bounce back this year, as more emphasis has been placed on the line. Defensively, the Bucs are always solid. It all comes down to quarterback, and while I’m predicting a seasons worth of close calls and 10 losses, that could just as easily go the other way in Tampa. Stay tuned to this division, its intriguing.

AFC Predictions

AFC North

1. Cincinnati Bengals: (11-5) The Bengals are my most exciting team in the AFC. The Patriots have done more to make themselves great, the Colts just won a Super Bowl, and the Broncos have built an elite secondary, but I think the Bengals could very well walk away with the 1 seed heading into the playoffs next season. However, I put them at 11-5 because they could also very well implode, all go steal some stuff, and go to jail. I’m betting on the former, but that’s just a hunch.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers: (10-6) Mike Tomlin is a solid coach, and will end up doing great things with the Steelers. He’ll start by taking a 3-4 defense, transforming it to a 4-3, change the offense around, complete the entire switcheroo that has gone down in Pittsburgh, and still put the Steelers in the playoffs. Whew.

3. Baltimore Ravens: (9-7) The Ravens are an interesting story going into 2007. They lost Adalius Thomas, whom was more than just an outside linebacker, but have a good unknown backup waiting in the wings. Steve McNair is getting older, but McGahee has come in to lessen the load, plus Boller might be ready to step in if Air McNair goes down. Defensively, the Ravens are too talented to get handled in any game, meaning they could go 9-7 or get lucky 4 times and go 13-3. What a great division.

4. Cleveland Browns: (5-11) The Browns will attempt to give this division a flat tire, as surely, they aren’t on the same level as the top 3 teams, all of which have a shot at the playoffs. The Browns are set up to struggle next season, regardless of where they got with their 1st draft pick. Te AFC is too tough, and this division especially makes line no-fair for the Brownies. Giving up on Charlie Frye reeks of what the Chargers were planning on doing with Drew Brees.

AFC East

1. New England Patriots: (12-4) The Patriots did all the right things in the offseason, and while they very well might have overpaid a couple times, they seemed to know what they wanted, and they got it. The players New England got, they either paid what the players’ talent insisted, or paid a few extra coin to add strong personality guys, Belichick guys. Brady has new weapons, and Maroney will be the man carrying the rock in NE.

2. New York Jets: (10-6) After the Jets made a stunning reversal, going from 4-12 to playoff team in Eric Mangini’s first season, (btw how didn’t he win coach of the year?) the Jets look to keep on rockin’ on way to another playoff bout. I can only imagine, with a year under D’Brick and Mangold’s uni, the Jets rushing attack will explode with Thomas Jones and Leon Washington sharing 4 to 1 backfield duties. With a running attack that will get some attention, maybe Coles and Cotchery will get more chances to succeed for big plays?

3. Miami Dolphins: (7-9) While I think Cam Cameron was a very good hire in Miami, I don’t think that it will make the Dolphins a playoff contributor. Miami put some good money into free agency, coming away with Joey Porter to pair with Jason Taylor as edge rushers, but I’m not sure Miami’s aging group can hold up. And they still need help bad in the secondary.

4. Buffalo Bills: (5-11) The Bills went into free agency as a team ready to do work, but I’m not so sure any more. Who will run for Buffalo? That question might not be answered until draft day. Is there someone to pair with Lee Evans that will strike a little fear into defenses? No, not Peerless Price. And how about replacing Nate Clements and Takeo Spikes? Leaders, best defensive players? Hey, at least they have Darnell Dockery. I like Losman’s growth, and Evans is this close to becoming Steve Smith, but the Bills are sledding on concrete with a tough off season.

AFC West

1. Denver Broncos: (11-5) The Broncos didn’t make the playoffs last season, and that just won’t happen again. The Chargers are the most talented bunch in this division, but overall the Broncos have more symmetry, through the air (Walker, Smith, Williams, and Cutler), via the ground (Bronco offense, Travis Henry, Mike Bell) and on defense (Champ Bailey and Dre Bly) all they need is defensive line, something they’ll add on draft day. I hate the Broncos, but must admit, this could be a good year for the Shredder and his merry men.

2. San Diego Chargers: (10-6) The Chargers have so much talent, its hard to believe that they’ll take a step back this season, but that’s my prediction. Losing your entire coaching staff, regardless of how solid your players are, often takes a toll on your team. And while Marty didn’t win the big one, surely, his players believed in him 100%. That’s tough to lose.

3. Kansas City Chiefs: (8-8) Larry Johnson is one of my favorite runners, but the kid can’t do it all for the Chiefs. They’re making the right move getting rid of Green, they should have done that half way through last season, but oh well. What I know is the Chiefs need help on defense and at receiver, two things that will continue to be the bane of their existence this season.

4. Oakland Raiders: (2-14) The Raiders are the worst team in football. You know how bad they are? They could take of the best offensive weapons in the draft and still be the worst offensive team in the league. Unless Lane Kiffin has some serious Prestige type Kenny Rogers hybrid Barry Bonds horse pills up his sleeve, I don’t see the Raiders, even with a good defense, winning more than a couple ball games.

AFC South

1. Indianapolis Colts: (10-6) First of all, I don’t see the Colts flying back to the Super Bowl, they’ve lost enough guys to struggle just enough to putter out near the end, plus they’ve already won one, and going back to back takes down right brilliance. However, they’re still good enough to take the South, even with the jags and Titans pushing their way to the top. Peyton gets enough done in a down year to push the Colts into the 2nd round.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: (10-6) The Jaguars have some questions at quarterback, but they could help answer some of those with the addition of someone like Ted Ginn Jr. or Steve Smith. Ted would stretch the field, and Smith is just good enough in space to separate and give Lefty a place to throw the rock comfortably. I like that Jags, their offense has too many weapons, and their defense is only a player or two away from becoming dominant.

3. Tennessee Titans: (7-9) The Titans are everyone’s sexy pick to slip into the playoffs next season, and while their opening schedule seems easy enough, I just don’t see it happening. Too many last minute amazings had to happen to get them the 8 wins they got last season, I just don’t see the magic happening again. Vince Young is the real deal, but until their receivers grow up a little, passing will be tough for the Titans, and without a true #1 RB, like Travis Henry was last season, the Titans defense will struggle staying on the field.

4. Houston Texans: (6-10) The Texans aren’t as far away from success as many want to think. Sure, they gave up on the chance to draft Vince Young and Reggie Bush, but stud defensive ends are tough to come by, and go for tons of money in free agency these days. However, the Texans need help offensively. This year, they should get Levi Brown, or more help defensive with their 1st pick. After that, a receiver to help Andre Johnson could be waiting in Round 2. I think the running game and passing attack will be better in year 2 under Kubiak, and Matt Schaub will prove to be a nice addition, but these Texans need another year, and another solid year of draft picks to begin to contend.

2006 NFL Season Preview – keep in mind these predictions were done well in advance of the 2006 NFL season.