Week 11 Fantasy Football Sleepers

The Good news: After this week we are done with those annoying bye weeks. The bad news: This is a really tough bye week. Key players from stat-friendly teams like the Saints, Steelers, Texans and Colts will be unable to assist your march towards the fantasy football playoffs.

If you’re one of the many owners missing a key producer this week, all is not lost. There are options out there that you can sneak into your lineup and still expect some modest fantasy return. Some of these players might already be on your bench, or might even be readily available on your waiver wire, like our picks here. Here’s a few names to keep in mind when getting ready to finalize your lineup Sunday.

Quarterbacks

Runningbacks

Wide Receivers

Tight End

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Fantasy Football: Get’em While Their Cheap

At this point in the Fantasy Football season, there are 3 types of owners.

1. Owners with strong teams, great records and are comfortable heading into the playoffs
2. The teams that are on the fence planning to make a run for the playoffs
3. And done for the year, planning keepers for next season

With 2 out of 3 of the fantasy persona’s listed above comfortable with either making the playoffs or have accepted the season is over, the odds of you being able to make a huge blockbuster deal is unlikely. For those fantasy teams with winning records, messing up the roster that got them to where they are would be absurd, and those done for the year have probably decided on who their keeping and have lost interest in their fantasy league.

The following list of players are names that may not WOW the critic’s, although making a move on these players now, may turn out to be the push that helps you get into and excel in the playoffs or steal value for next year.

10) Shonn Greene -RB New York Jets
Gridiron Experts does not hold back on taking fantasy cheap-shots at Shonn Greene when the chance is available. He has been proclaimed as the next best thing to emerge out of the Jets back-field for the last 2 years; unfortunately everyone is still waiting for it to happen. Greene is having a decent fantasy season, but not one that a fantasy owner would care to hang on to. The reason why Shonn Greene makes for a such great sleeper RB to trade for is the current Jets playoff situation. The AFC East is arguably the toughest race in the league and without any surprise meltdowns all three top teams will be battling it out to the bitter end. The fantasy advantage for Greene in particular, is the rushing defense’s he is about to face. All three of the NFC East teams that the Jets are scheduled to meet over the next month or two are ranked near the bottom of the defensive rushing category. One that really catches my eye is the Jets at Eagles week 16 game. The Eagles are a mess on defense and have one of the leagues most breakable linebacking cores in the NFL. There is some concern that Greene is experiencing concussion symptoms lately, so playing your cards right in the trade negotiations would be advised. Greene could be picked up for cheap and give you fantasy options in the playoffs.

9) Cedric Benson -RB Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are about to run the gauntlet in the AFC North. The next 4 weeks Cincinnati plays Pit, @Bal, Cle, and @Pit again. Cedric Benson’s fantasy stock should absolutely plummet in the next month facing these tough defense’s. If you are sneaky enough, make a call to acquire Benson at the lowest point and add him to your fantasy team for the playoffs. In weeks 15 and 16 Benson faces the Rams and Cardinals.

I know making a trade for a player for just for two weeks doesn’t seem worth the time, but if you are light at RB heading into the fantasy playoffs and can swindle someone when Benson’s stock is next to nothing, you’ll have an decent match-up in the most important fantasy games of the year.

8) Heath Miller -TE Pittsburgh Steelers
A “throw in player” to a trade that could win you weeks from the Big Ben pass-happy attack. After huge games against the Patriots and Ravens, Miller has become a reliable target for Roethlisberger and he should continue to see a high number of targets moving forward.

7) Javon Ringer- RB Tennessee Titans
A possible waiver wire player that holds interesting fantasy value in his back-up role in Tennessee. Ringer has much upside for the Titans and is worth acquiring for cheap. With rumors of Chris Johnson being cut to save coin in the new year, Ringer will be the starter behind a decent offensive line. This trade recommendation is for teams that are calling it quits in 2011. This is a sleeper in the making and a long-term potential player for 2012.

6) Victor Cruz -WR New York Giants
The price may be steep thanks the never-ending injuries to Manningham and Nicks, but never the less Victor Cruz has proven to be a player worth starting in fantasy leagues. The Giants have a comfortable lead in the NFC East and will rest players with nagging injuries. Cruz could see a huge increase in targets over the next few weeks.

5) Tim Tebow -QB Denver Broncos
The odds that you need a QB heading into the playoffs are unlikely, so I guess this would be an insurance trade recommendation. The option formation will rack up fantasy points with ease for owners in the coming weeks. Tebow is a nice back-up player or for those of you who have been getting by with tier 2 QB’s all season, and a answer to your problems for tough match-ups. The only thing that should slow this college option formation is a foot of snow, fortunately the Broncos have a game in San Diego and in a dome in the next couple weeks.

4) Jake Ballard- TE New York Giants
Definitely a player on the rise. Unlike the receiving core that does get juggled around a lot, Ballard’s position is a lock and is a safe start each week. The Giants will continue to lean on their new favorite red zone target moving forward into the Fantasy playoffs

3) Kendall Hunter- RB San Francisco 49er’s
If history tells us anything, Frank Gore should go down with an injury this season. Gore has been a workhorse, but has had nagging injuries over the course of his career. Even if Gore remains healthy, at what point does the coaching staff look at the standings and begin to start to ease off the amount of carries Gore sees per game. The NFC West is laughable as the 49er’s have a 6 game lead over the Seahawks, almost at clinching the division. Weeks 15-17 could be clean-up time for Hunter. The best part is weeks 16 and 17 are against the Seahawks and Rams. As far as trade value goes, Hunter is one step above a waiver wire pick-up, but has the potential to be a huge sleeper for the playoffs and maybe even next year.

2) DeSean Jackson- WR Philadelphia Eagles
Not exactly the best way to get yourself a new contract is it? Jackson has been invisible this season and has hurt many fantasy teams. Although, this weekend could be the turning point to his season as the battle of the birds face off in Philly. The Cardinals are a team in re-building mode and have given up big play yardage against the pass. If Jackson bounces back and has a big  Sunday than fantasy owners will likely squeeze their grip on one of the most popular players in the league. But if another forgettable performance wrecks starting line-ups across the nation, Jackson’s stock will hit the floor. The skill set of DeSean Jackson doesn’t need to discussed, but his fantasy-worth can vary depending on the eyes of the beholder. Many fantasy owners can’t see long-term potential and don’t understand an “off-year”. Much like Steve Smith in Carolina, a new QB can change everything. DeSean Jackson will probably get franchised tagged in the off-season, but a re-built offensive line, coaching staff or new contract could affect Jackson for the 2012 season. His stock is low and those of you that are thinking keepers, this may be the time to buy for cheap.

1) Ben Tate- RB Texans
If you haven’t seen Tate run with the ball, you’re missing out. This bruiser RB has an intense burst and looks like he could start on any team in the league. The Texans are stacked at RB heading into the playoffs, but if there was ever a back-up RB that could slide into place without losing any NFL production, it would be Ben Tate for the Texans. Acquiring this back-up sleeper in a trade would have to make sense for a specific fantasy situation. Fantasy owners, especially ones who have Adrian Foster will not let him go and the price may not be worth the gamble, but overall my feeling is that more carries are to be divided between these two backs very soon. The Texans should clinch and rest players weeks 16-17

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2011 Fantasy Football Sleepers: AFC North

This is the fifth of our eight part preview where will will look at each of NFL division’s fantasy football values and sleepers. We previously covered the AFC West  NFC South NFC East and AFC East. Rather than give you the same sleepers that you can find everywhere else, we will attempt to dig deep and find someone who is likely to go un-drafted in nearly every fantasy football draft that could contribute. All 2011 ADP rankings courtesy or friends at Myfantasyleague.com.

 Baltimore Ravens

Undervalued: Ed Dickson (TE)- Todd Heap is now plying his tight end trade in the desert, so second year player Ed Dickson has been handed the starting reigns in the Ravens offense. Last season Dickson had some moderate success starting three game in relief of an injured Heap. During that time, Dickson showed that he had the ability to not only stretch the field, but to serve as a capable blocker. With the arrival of a more pass-heavy offense, Baltimore’s tight end numbers have finished in the top half of the NFL for two consecutive seasons.

He might not be a must have starting fantasy tight end, but if Dickson can put up numbers similar to the 600 yards, 5 touchdown statistics that Todd Heap averaged, he’ll be a nice bye week replacement, or worthy of a bench spot on fantasy squads that start two tight ends.

Overvalued: Ricky Williams (RB)- When Williams signed as the Ravens new complimentary back, a lot of people assumed the he would be a must have hand-cuff to starter Ray Rice. But during the preseason we didn’t see anything to indicate that Williams will play any sort of significant role for the club. Before the preseason it was announced that Rice would command the coveted goal line looks for the Ravens, and that’s exactly how it played out.

Since Ray Rice is an excellent pass catcher, and hasn’t missed a game since becoming the featured back, Williams’ value depended on him taking on a Willis McGahee type of role. With that now unlikely, Ricky Williams’ fantasy value has plummeted to that of a back-up that is unlikely to play unless the incumbent is hurt.

Deep Sleeper: David Reed (WR)- Derrick Mason was a trusted and valuable target for Joe Flacco. Not what he’s gone to New York somebody will have to step in to be the Ravens third receiver. Torrey Smith and Tandon Doss are both rookies, so that role might go to David Reed, who is currently listed as the club’s third wide out. Don’t underestimate the value of a slot receiver to the conservative Baltimore offense. The aging Mason has eclipsed 1000+ yards in three of the last four seasons and averaged six scores. Nobody is assuming that Reed is the kind of player Mason has been, but it shows there can be plenty of balls to go around.

Reed is likely the type of player that you want to keep an eye on rather than draft in anything but the deepest of fantasy leagues. He has been suspended for the club’s opener, so don’t look for him to make any kind of impact early.

 Cincinnati Bengals

Undervalued: Jermaine Gresham (TE)- There’s been a lot of turnover in the new Cincinnati Bengals offense. The only returning starter in the Bengals’ passing game will be tight end Jermaine Gresham. Last season the rookie started only 10 games, but managed to catch a respectable 52 passes and four touchdowns. He’s the undisputed starter now, and will serve as a nice safety valve and trusted red zone target for a rookie quarterback.

In his limited playing time from last season, Gresham still managed to finish as the 21st ranked tight end. Had he started all 16 games, his numbers project out to those of a starting-caliber fantasy tight end. He’s being drafted as the 20th ranked TE  this season, so there seems to be a lot of value and upside.

Overvalued: Cedric Benson (RB)-  It was touch and go that Benson would even return to Cincinnati this season, but he didn’t exactly generate a ton of interest from other squads looking for running backs. That comes as little surprise as the past offseason saw Benson get arrested yet again. There are no truth to the rumors that Benson is training to be a pilot so he can go for the driving, boating AND flying under the influence trifecta.

There is some value in having Cedric Benson on your fantasy squad, if for no other reason than he is one of the last true featured, three down backs. But since the Bengals pass offense is in such transition, and led by a rookie signal-caller, opposing defenses will stack the line in an effort to shut down Benson and the ground game.

Deep Sleeper: Jordan Shipley (WR)- Nobody has high expectation for the Bengals to do much winning this season. But that’s not always a bad thing for fantasy football. If the club is playing from behind in the second half, there could be plenty of  ”garbage time” passing numbers to help you win your fantasy matchup. Jordan Shipley is just the kind of player who could benefit in these situations. As a rookie, Shipley caught a respectable 52 passes for 600 yards. He could challenge for more playing time from the Bengals unproven starting wide receivers.

 Cleveland Browns

 Undervalued: Colt McCoy (QB)- McCoy had his ups and downs when thrust into the starting lineup last season, but the real excitement over his potential started to grow this preseason. New head coach Pat Shurmur is installing a short-pass, West Coast style of offense that seems to fit McCoy perfectly. With the addition of a healthy Montario Hardesty and rookie receiver Greg Little, there’s reason for optimism for the Browns offense.

Deep Sleeper: Evan Moore (TE)- Colt McCoy had a great relationship with Ben Watson last year, but Moore has had a fantastic preseason and has stolen the starting job away from Watson. Moore is a bigger, faster and is a much more fluid pass catcher than the incumbent. He was McCoy’s favorite target in the preseason, and the Browns brass felt so confident in his abilities that they recently agreed to a contract extension with the third year break-out star. Moore makes an excellent target for fantasy owners looking for a high upside second tight end.

 Pittsburgh Steelers

Undervalued: Ben Roethlisberger (QB)- Big Ben’s value still hasn’t recovered from his tumultuous 2009 offseason. But after serving his four game suspension to begin last year, Roethlisberger put up his usual outstanding fantasy number, even finishing 18th in fantasy points at the QB position. With the emergence of Antonio Brown, Mike Wallace and Emmanuel Sanders, the Steelers are transitioning into a passing team, and Roethlisberger is primed to have a huge season. In addition to being surrounding by an excellent supporting cast, Big Ben is a capable rusher who has scored 2+ rushing scores in each of the last six seasons.

Overvalued: Hines Ward (WR)- Ward has been a tough and dependable receiver for many years now, but the wheels may be about to fall off. Ward saw a significant drop in receptions last season, as younger players like Mike Wallace and Emmanuel Sanders began to become established parts of the Pittsburgh offense. Now Ward will have even more competition for looks from emerging preseason star Antonio Brown. At 35 years old, there’s no doubt that Ward is slowing down. His touchdown numbers have declined for three consecutive seasons and with an offseason spent on Dancing With the Stars and a D.U.I arrest, there’s even reasons to question Ward’s focus.

Deep Sleeper: Issac Redman (RB)- The Steelers run game starts and ends with Rashard Mendenhall, but there’s been some talk of increasing Redman’s role this season. Head coach Mike Tomlin has said that he intends to run Mendenhall until the wheels falls off, but with 412 combined regular and postseason touches, that end might come sooner, rather than later. Redman is a capable runner who could step in to spell Mendenhall and keep him fresh for a long season. Even if his role isn’t expanded, Redman is a hand-cuff back who would instantly become the hottest waiver wire pick in fantasy football if Mendenhall were to go down.

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2011 Breakout PPR Players

If you are fortunate enough to be in a PPR (Point Per Reception) league then you already know it’s more important to do your research. Guys that fit great into a game plan and players with great match-ups are all the more important in a PPR league … but that’s a good thing.

A wide out with a dozen clutch catches for only a few yards per catch might be the reason his team won the game. But, if you aren’t in a PPR league than a player who only had a single catch but slipped a tackle on a blown coverage might score you more fantasy points!

If you aren’t on the PPR bandwagon yet, you need to think about joining. And if you ARE on it, then remember these names as breakout PPR Players in the 2011 season.

The 5 Breakout PPR Players for 2011:

1. Ed Dickson – Tight End – Baltimore Ravens

Really? A tight end right off the bat? Yes. Dickson is in perfect position to become a real threat on the Ravens’ offense. Not only is the offense primed for a young tight end to step in (how much more of a beating can Todd Heap keep up at 31 years old…), but there’s also a great cast around him.

Ray Rice may be the ultimate threat to account for as one of the top all-purpose backs. He needs to be accounted for in both the running and the passing game. Meanwhile, the Ravens have Stallworth, Boldin, and Mason as their “old reliable’s on the sidelines.” And if that isn’t enough, they have just added a speedster and a deep threat in Torrey Smith out of Maryland in the draft.

Dickson is an athletic, pass catching tight end who will absolutely find some space in between the numbers. He’ll also be able to get open in mismatch situations against corners and safeties down-field.

2. Roy Helu, Jr. – Running Back – Washington Redskins

Helu comes in as more of a true all-purpose back. Mike Shanahan loves running backs so it might hurt Helu’s opportunities. BUT, Helu also comes into an anemic offense without a lot of play-makers. He will definitely  make his mark in the passing game, IF he sees the field. He averaged close to 9.3 yards per catch at Nebraska, so as long as he adjusts to the passing game you can expect him and his 4.40 40 time to run right by defenders, or use his 220 pound frame to knock them over.

Helu could become a complete back in Shanahan’s offense based on talent alone. But, the fact that Rex Grossman or John Beck will probably be opening day starters at quarterback means Washington will rely on their backs in the passing game instead of counting on the likes of Santana Moss (will be 32 and is a free agent), Mike Furrey (34), Mike Sellers (36) and even Chris Cooley who’s getting long in the tooth (will be 29).

3. Cecil Shorts  – Wide Receiver – Jacksonville Jaguars

If you know my thoughts on Maurice Jones-Drew, then you already know I think his season won’t amount to much. I also don’t think that David Garrard is anything more than a placeholder this season until Blaine Gabbert is ready to take the helm. BUT, I like Shorts as a similar option to what Pierre Garcon did.

They’re both from the Division 3 Mount Union. If you know Mount Union then you know their talent. Shorts has an impressive resume already, as he was a quarterback at Mount Union until Garcon graduated. He is still raw at the receiver position but already has upside and flash. At 6’0″ 205lbs he has good size for a receiver, and with his 4.50 speed and  21 reps at the combine for the 225 bench press, he sounds like the perfect candidate for a slot receiver. Will he be the next Hines Ward? Who knows. But he has the football intelligence and the athleticism to succeed at the next level. Besides, who else will catch the ball for Jacksonville?

4. Jordan Shipley – Wide Receiver – Cincinnati Bengals

Shipley has already become known by many fantasy owners as a decent pickup. But he can now become the true option that he was at Texas thanks to a few things.

First, the Bengals are going to be a pass-first, West Coast offense. That means more balls for Shipley. Second, the drafting of A.J. Green means another deep route runner pulling the safeties downfield. That’s more space for Shipley. And third, if you look at his stats, he made his entire game by being the check down option last year. He had 52 catches and averaged 11.5 yards per catch. BUT, if you take away his two longest receptions, he had 50 catches with only 9.7 yards per catch!

What does that mean? He is the guy running underneath, and with A.J. Green over the top we could see the next Randy Moss / Wes Welker combo in Cincinnati this fall. He will catch a lot this year and could become Andy Dalton’s best friend (and most common target).

5. Vincent Brown – Wide Receiver – San Diego Chargers

Philip Rivers has all of the weapons that he needs. San Diego has an amazing passing attack. But the status of Malcolm Floyd and Vincent Jackson are both up in the air. It’s unclear who will return, but it probably won’t be both of them. Either way, insert Vincent Brown, who was drafted out of San Diego State, to be a realistic option.

While Brown isn’t the “typical” 6’4″ size that most of the Chargers are, he is a reliable player with a ton of upside. Some would call him “slow and undersized” but he is a football player whether or not his stats make him seem like one. His hands are amazing and he is a very intelligent player who knows how to get open. He also knows how to play the game and will earn a spot on the field early on, because he blocks very well at this stage in his career.

In fact, if Brown can improve his route running and add a little more size, he can be a realistic #2 or even at least a slot receiver by this fall. When you remember that Rivers has averaged over 3900 yards passing per year over the last 5 seasons … there is a lot of room for Brown to fit into the San Diego offense.

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Week 9 Fantasy Sleepers

TIER 1

Patrick Crayton (WR) San Diego- With all the injuries the Chargers have at receiver, Crayton is the last man standing. Now San Diego rolls into Houston to play the Texans on a short week. Houston is dead last against the pass, and Philip Rivers is on record pace…this is about as ideal as a fantasy match-up can be. If Crayton is still available on your waiver-wire list, grab him and plug him in this week.

Brandon Jackson (RB) Green Bay- A popular Week 2 fantasy waiver add, Jackson has been dropped in many leagues. His overall stats are not overwhelming, but over the course of the season, he has started to separate himself from the committee with John Kuhn. Jackson is seeing all the receptions, and is getting at least twice as many carries per game as Kuhn. Also it was Jackson, not Kuhn, who punched in the last Packers goal line touchdown. Green Bay hosts a defeated Dallas Cowboys team on Sunday night, so there’s a good chance Jackson puts up some very usable stats.

Johnny Knox (WR) Chicago- Johnny Knox was on fire heading into the Bears bye week. In Chicago’s previous two games, Knox had 11 receptions for 206 yards and a touchdown. In Week 9 the Bears play in Toronto against a Buffalo Bills team that has had trouble with opposing teams top wide outs recently. The Bears have also had two weeks to prepare for this game, while the Bills are coming off of two heart breaking overtime losses on the road.

TIER 2

Jordy Nelson (WR) Green Bay- Donald Driver has already been ruled out for this game, so Jordy Nelson and James Jones will see more targets. Despite playing less than Jones, Nelson has more receptions this year, and has seen an increase in catches nearly every week. Over the past month, he is averaging four catches for 47 yards, as a reserve. Now he should be more prominently featured on a prime time Sunday night national television game at Lambeau field playing against a struggling Dallas Cowboys defense.

Donald Brown (RB) Indianapolis- The former first round pick will get another chance to play for the Colts. Joseph Addai and Mike Hart are both expected to miss the Week 9 game against Philadelphia, so Brown should start and get extensive reps with the first team. He hasn’t done much this year, so he needs to play well to avoid the “bust” label. The game against the Eagles should be high scoring, so Brown has a good shot at getting a rushing score.

Jon Kitna (QB) Dallas- Everyone’s given up on the Cowboys, so a large percentage of their fantasy players have hit waivers. Since taking over for Tony Romo, Jon Kitna hasn’t played as badly as the number indicate. Three of this four interceptions against the Jaguars were well thrown ball that bounced off receiver’s hands. Kitna still managed to throw for 379 yards that game. No one expects the Cowboys to beat the Packers, but they could fall way behind and set the stage for some nice garbage time passing numbers in the second half.

TIER 3

Randy McMichael (TE) St. Louis- It’s looking increasingly likely that Antonio Gates, who is listed as

doubtful, will mis this game. McMichael will start is his place. He isn’t anywhere near the talent that Gates is, but considering the way Philip Rivers has been throwing the ball at record pace, and that the Texans struggle so badly to defend the pass, McMichael could be worth a spot start here for those in desperate need at the position.

Mario Manningham (WR) New York Giants- Manningham scored a touchdown in each of the Giants two games. In the five games in which Manningham has logged stats (he does have two games of zero catches), he is averaging four catches for 66 yards and three touchdowns. This week the Giants go to Seattle to take on the Seahawks 29^th ranked pass defense.

Toby Gerhart (RB) Minnesota- The Vikings are suffering some severe injuries to their passing game. This is going to cause them to rely on Adrian Peterson even more than usual. Gerhart has been playing on third downs, and occasionally spelling Peterson. In the Vikings last game, the loss to the Patriots, Gerhart caught five balls for 67 yards. With Minnesota expected to keep their offense grounded against a weak Cardinals defense in Week 9, Gerhart could see some extra carries in relief of A.P.

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Week 4 Fantasy Sleepers

So you’ve had some injuries and need some last second help to fill out a winning roster this week? We’ve got the solution for you. We have a list of some players who can help you win this week, and maybe even contribute in the future.
These sleepers are raked in 3 tiers. The first tier is the more obvious “must have” guys; maybe spot starter this week due to an injury. Tier 2 digs a little deeper by ranking guys who could have a favorable matchup or are due for a big game. Tier 3 is for only the deepest leagues; rosters that are desperate for a warm body, or a young prospect with future value for dynasty/keeper leagues.

TIER 1

QB Bruce Gradkowski (OAK)- We mentioned Gradkowski in tier 2 last week, and he came through for 255 yards and a touchdown and nearly leading the Raiders to a victory. This week he’s at home facing the NFL’s 32st ranked pass defense in the Houston Texans. He makes an excellent bye week spot starter this week.

RB Justin Forsett (SEA)- While Leon Washington was the Seahawks runner who got all the headlines last week, Forsett has quietly become Seattle’s featured running back. He got 17 of the 18 running back carries in Week 3 (Washington had 1 for 0 yards) and even got some goal line touches. This week, Forsett goes to St. Louis to face a Rams team that’s given up over 400 rushing yards so far this year. Week 11, 2009 in St. Louis, Forsett gouged the Rams for 130 rushing yards and 2 scores.

WR Brandon Lloyd (DEN)- With Knowshon Moreno still out, the Broncos are going to have to continue to rely on their potent passing game, which is currently ranked #1 in the NFL at 350 yards per game. Lloyd has become the play making deep threat for Denver. He’s averaging over 24 yards per catch, and is 2nd in the NFL with 339 receiving yards. He’s also currently still available in 32% of Yahoo public leagues.

TIER 2

WR Jacoby Jones (HOU)- With Andre Johnson expected to miss the Raiders game, Jones could be promoted into his spot as the Texans starting wide receiver. Kevin Walter, who has scored in all 3 games this year, is likely to retain his role on the opposite side of the field. The value lies in which Texans receiver is not covered by CB Nnamdi Asomugha. Unfortunately, with this being a late kickoff, fantasy football fans may not have the luxury of knowing Andre Johnson’s status until well after line-ups are due in.

WR Mike Thomas (JAX)- Thomas has clearly become the 2nd receiving option in Jacksonville. Through 3 games he has the same number of catches (12) as Mike Sims-Walker, in 1 less target. In a game that the Jags are likely to be losing big, Thomas could get some garbage time numbers in the second half versus the Colts. He has only 1 career touchdown, but it did come last year in Jacksonville against Indianapolis. Thomas gets even more of a boost for leagues accounting for return yardage, as he has returned 8 punts for 88 yards in 2010.

RB Ryan Torain (WAS)- Clinton Portis’ best days are clearly behind him. It is doubtful that the Redskins can continue to pass the ball with the alarmingly high frequency that they have in the first 3 games. Ryan Torain, not Keiland Williams, seems to be Mike Shanahan’s newest unheralded runner. Shanahan coached Torain in Denver, so he is familiar with Torain’s skills. Also keep in mind that Mike Shanahan is the Godfather of the “running-back by committee”, so we can expect a decrease in touches for Portis, and an increase for Torain…until the Redskins sign Olandis Gary, Mike Anderson, or Gaston Green.

TIER 3

WR Blair White (IND)- Proof positive of Peyton Manning’s greatness: a player like Blair White could get the call up from the practice squad, due to injuries to Pierre Garcon and Anthony Gonzalez, and step right in and score a touchdown. His value is likely to be limited, as he is unlikely to play much, if at all, when the Colts are healthy. As long as Garcon and Gonzalez are out, he has some value in deeper fantasy leagues.

RB Ladell Betts (NOS)- Pierre Thomas could miss the Saints week 4 tilt against the visiting Panthers, a game that New Orleans should win convincingly after a frustrating home loss against the division rival Falcons. If Thomas does miss the game, expect Betts, not Chris Ivory, to start for the Saints. Drew Brees has spoken highly of Betts, and Ivory is still recovering from his own injury. In what would likely be an even split between the two, Betts is more likely to play on passing downs, but would likely cede goal line carries to Ivory. Betts could get some decent yardage numbers in this game, for those in desperate need of filling out a flex spot. Temper expectations though: Betts is coming off of his own reconstructive knee surgery, and if the Saints thought really high of him, they would not have cut him earlier this year.

TE Daniel Fells (STL)- So far, Sam Bradford looks like he could be a good NFL quarterback. Tight end has been a mostly forgotten position in St. Louis for years. Bradford has targeted Fells 11 times so far in 2010, and Fells has delivered 8 catches and a touchdown. He makes a decent fill in this week for Witten, Winslow, or Shiancoe owners. The Rams host the Seahawks this week. Seattle has been a poor defensive team of late, particularly on the road.

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Like usual, there were several surprises and flat-out shocking performances in fantasy football in week three, none more eye-popping than Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis churning out 180+ total yards on 29 touches.

Hillis putting up big numbers with extra opportunities isn’t the jaw-dropper, folks. This writer knew this guy had the skills and tough running style to do this all along. It’s that he did it against the stout Baltimore Ravens defense, is what is impressive.

This week we’re giving you two guys at each major offensive position (QB/RB/WR/TE), and making sure every single guy we name is available in at least 50% of all standard leagues.

Looking for the next Hillis for week four? Read on for the top waiver wire gems on the market:

Mark Sanchez, QB, New York Jets (Available in 57% of all standard Yahoo! Leagues)

Sanchez looked like he’d be spending his entire 2010 season on your league’s waiver wire after a pathetic week one, but then put on a show in a huge win in week two over New England. He capped a marvelous two-week run with his second consecutive three-touchdown game, and has yet to throw a pick this season, despite facing three solid defenses to start the season. Add the fact that Santonio Holmes is due back in week four, and it’s hard not to start to warm up to Sanchez. Sanchez should make for a quality back-up or spot fill-in as a QB1 if needed.

Sam Bradford, QB, St. Louis Rams (74%)

Bradford is a rookie, plays for the rams, and has five picks to his name in just three games. All bad things, true, but he’s shown a true moxie and great feel for the game in that short span, and has also put up two games of 230+ yards, while throwing at least one touchdown in each game to start the season. He’ll be hit-or-miss all season, but you know he’ll be throwing a ton in each game all season long. Bradford is a decent option in two-quarterback leagues.

Writer Pick: Peyton Hillis, RB, Cleveland Browns (52%)

We’ll keep it short and sweet: Go get this bruiser. Hillis put up 144 rushing yards on a very good Baltimore run defense; the same Ravens run defense that locked up the Jets rush attack and made Cedric Benson look extremely pedestrian. Hillis can catch at a high level, too (seven receptions in week three), and has a touchdown in each game this season. He is an absolute must-own in all leagues. Hillis is a safe RB2 with potential to be very stable every week.

LeGarrette Blount, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (99%)

There simply aren’t a great amount of backs on waiver wires who can make a huge impact right now. We could point you to Fred Taylor in New England, but he has just 27 total rushing yards in the past two weeks, despite rushing for 71 in week one. Blount runs hard and has more explosion that Carnell Williams, so there is a definite chance for more carries here. Blount had 27 yards on six carries (including a score) in week three, and could be featured more going forward. He can’t be relied on as a Flex just yet, but keep an eye on him, and stash him in deeper leagues.

Louis Murphy, WR, Oakland Raiders (70%)

We could point you to Lance Moore, Brandon Lloyd, or Roy Williams, but that’s just being lazy, and more importantly, wrong. All three of those receivers had their biggest games of the year in week three, and are almost certainly never going to see that much success again in their entire careers. Murphy, on the other hand, has been the top receiver in Oakland all season, and has the role and explosiveness to keep it going. The fact that he and Bruce Gradkowski hooked up five times for 119 yards in Gradkowski’s first start is more telling that Oakland haters will want to admit. He’s a serviceable WR3, starting now.

Brian Hartline, WR, Miami Dolphins (98%)

As I said before, you can talk about the guys who had a week from the heavens all you want, but what you need are players who have the role and ability to produce on a weekly basis. Hartline may be on the fence between being reliable and being a one-week wonder, but with opposing defenses having to focus most of their attention on Brandon Marshall, Hartline could be in for a very consistent role. Hartline is turning into a more elusive and explosive option than Davone Bess, and the more comfortable Chad Henne gets with his receivers, the more reliable Hartline will be. Stash him in deeper leagues, and keep an eye on him in shallow leagues.

Aaron Hernandez, TE, New England Patriots (67%)

You could play it safe with Todd Heap or Jeremy Shockey, but the waiver wire isn’t always about getting reliable additions. Sometimes you need to inject some life into your lineup, and an increasingly hot item at tight end is Hernandez, who has grabbed six passes in each of the past two games, becoming a very solid option for Tom Brady in New England. The best part? Hernandez has showed his explosiveness and dependability as a receiver, and he hasn’t even scored yet. The true explosion is coming. Grab Hernandez as a capable TE1 if needed, and a quality TE2.

Tony Moeaki, TE, Kansas City Chiefs (67%)

Take your pick between Hernandez and Moeaki, but either way, you’re getting a young tight end who can make plays and will be getting the ball on a consistent basis. Moeaki’s amazing one-handed touchdown grab in week three made Chiefs fans say: Tony Gonzalez, who? It truly appears the Chiefs have found their new franchise tight end, and his emergence is starting to help Matt Cassel. Don’t look for his rise to cease anytime soon, and grab Moeaki as a quality TE2 with real TE1 potential.

Buy’em Low

We know it’s not always about the role or percentages, so here’s a name to take a gander at and buy low if you have the roster space or really (really) need a shot in the arm and a “cross your fingers” type of player to get your team going.

Danny Woodhead, RB, New England Patriots (99%)

The tiny kid wasn’t meant to be a big part of their rushing attack, but he took a 22-yard run to the house and put up over 11 points in standard fantasy leagues in week three. Bill Belichick is too smart to keep romping with Fred Taylor and ignore this kid’s potential. It may not be abrupt, but something tells me you’ll be hearing more about Woodhead.

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So you’ve had some injuries and need some last second help to fill out a winning roster this week? We’ve got the solution for you. We have a list of some players who can help you win this week, and maybe even contribute in the future.

These sleepers are ranked in 3 tiers. The first tier is the more obvious “must have” guys; maybe spot starter this week due to an injury. Tier 2 digs a little deeper by ranking guys who could have a favorable matchup or are due for a big game. Tier 3 is for only the deepest leagues; rosters that are desperate for a  warm body, or a young prospect with future value for dynasty/keeper leagues.

Tier 1-

WR Demaryius Thomas (DEN)- The impressive rookie got his first playing time of 2010 last week and delivered in a big way, 8 catches for 97 yards and a touchdown. Thomas should become the Broncos undisputed #1 wide receiver, and has a good chance for some great numbers this week. The Colts come to Mile High to play the Broncos, and this could lead to some nice passing numbers as the Broncos either play catch up, or struggle to keep up with the potent Indy offense.

RB Mike Tolbert (SD)- It’s looking like Ryan Mathews will be out this week, at a minimum. High ankle sprains are dangerous injuries, and often take several weeks to recover from. Tolbert filled in admirably last week after Mathews got injured, and has been a force so far in short yardage situations. He should get feature back carries, and be guaranteed to get all the goal line work for the Chargers against a poor Seattle defense.

TE Aaron Hernandez (NE)- Hernandez went off last week, catching 6 passes for 101 yards. He has shown very impressive speed for his position thus far, and is a candidate to take some of the slack in the Patriots passing game, with Wes Welker hurting. Though the Patriots also have fellow rookie Rob Gronkowski, they will use two tight end sets often, and Hernandez seems to have the higher upside of the two. Excellent matchup this week versus a putrid Buffalo Bills team.

Tier 2-

QB Sam Bradford (STL)- Though rookie QB’s aren’t typically sleepers, Bradford has looked capable so far for the Rams. He has 3 scoring passes so far in the season, and is playing is second home game. This time the Washington Redskins and their 29th ranked pass defense make for an intriguing matchup for owners struggling at quarterback. (Kevin Kolb owners?)

WR Lee Evans (BUF)- Exit Trent Edwards, enter Ryan Fitzpatrick. It’s almost impossible to think that Fitzpatrick won’t be able to do a better job throwing the ball downfield that Edwards has so far in 2010.  Evans has been an empty uniform so far, even putting up a big goose egg last week. The Bills play the Patriots this week, and are likely to get blown out. However the Patriots are ranked 26^th against the pass this year, and got torched by a mediocre Mark Sanchez for three scores last week. There’s a chance that Evans cans sneak past the secondary, maybe in garbage time, and get a TD bomb.

RB Laurence Maroney (DEN)- With Knowshon Moreno’s surprisingly being ruled out, the opportunity for Maroney to contribute some decent numbers is there for the taking. Assuming he himself is healthy, Maroney could get the start for he Broncos. Though not an ideal game, against the Colts, it’s possible Denver will try to keep the ball out of Manning hands by attempting to utilize the run game (like Houston did in week 1). Its become clear that Correll Buckhalter and his sub 3.0 yards per carry isn’t the answer. Josh McDaniels is familiar with Maroney’s skill set, in particular as being an effective (albeit fumble prone) short yardage back, and traded for him for a reason. Maybe Maroney starts to pay off  this week.

QB Bruce Gradkowski (OAK)- More temporary signal caller help is available this week. The Raiders have benched Jason Campbell, a strong armed classic passer, for Gradkowski, who is all heart and intangibles, the anti-Raider. What Gradkowski seems to bring, though, is winning. He has done really well when give the chance, and plays a fairly weak Cardinals secondary this week. He’ll do everything he can to claim the starters job from this point forward.

Tier 3-

TE Martellus Bennett (DAL) Jason Witten is a little injured, so Bennett could see an increase in playing time over the coming weeks. He was able to haul in 7 passes in week 2 alone; an impressive number for any tight end, much less a back up. With the way the Cowboys have struggled to run the ball, look for them to continue to air it out, and for Bennett to see some time in two tight end sets, and perhaps spelling Witten on a few more snaps per game.

RB Chris Ivory (NOS)- With Reggie Bush’s latest injury, Pierre Thomas now becomes a full time back. But the Saint’s always give two, and sometimes three backs carries. Ivory is now healthy, and should see his first action of 2010. He looked very good in the pre season, and could relieve Thomas of short yardage duties, maybe punching in a 1 yard run.

RB Keiland Williams (WAS)- With the release of Larry Johnson, this rookie from LSU now has been promoted to the back up back behind an unimpressive Clinton Portis. Recall that Portis missed most of last year after a brutal concussion, so it isn’t too far fetched to see Williams playing a significant role for the Redskins. Head Coach Mike Shannahan is said to be impressed with Williams skills and ability to pass block. An unheralded rookie runner playing a big role for Mike Shannahan…sound familiar?

WR Earl Bennett (CHI)- The once forgotten Bennett appears to have beaten out Devin Aromashadu for the Bears third receiver job. Bennet got 6 targets last week, and turned them into 5 catches. Teams that pass the ball as often as Mike Martz coached teams do can easily provide useable fantasy numbers for three or more receivers.

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10 Best Bang For Buck NFL Rookies Of 09

If your favorite NFL team is holding a top 10 pick in this year’s draft (or any year for that matter) you know that a blue-chip elite rookie is going to be added to your team. Actually, any player in the first, second or even third round can make an immediate difference in the NFL, one of the reasons why the NFL draft is changing to a 3-day prime time event. Of coarse, as the draft progresses the odds of finding a rookie that can step onto the field in his first year is very unlikely. But every year someone gets overlooked due to being under sized, having poor speed or just strange luck, making these late round gems usually the talk of training camp.

Gridiron Experts has compiled 2009′s best bang for buck players that made a difference in their rookie year. The criteria is not based on potential, as that’s all anyone ever talks about. We are simply giving props to the guys who were expected to hold clipboards but ended up being huge factors on the field.

[10] CB- Captain Munnerlyn (Panthers 7th RD pick)

The Carolina Panthers didn’t get much production out of last years draft class. In fact, their last pick was arguably their best. 216th overall the Carolina Panthers picked a 5’8 190lb DB from South Carolina, I guess they figured if it didn’t work out he wouldn’t have a long trip home. Captain Munnerlyn started 4 games and made plays all season. This late round steal had 44 tackles and a force fumble for a team that some didn’t even think he’d make.

[9] RB- LaRod Stephens-Howling (Cardinals 7th RD pick )

LaRod had two NFL starts and played in all 16 games last year as a special teams stud, making plays all over field, including returning kick for a touchdown. LaRod Stephens-Howling was drafted 240th overall with countless running backs gone before him.

[8] LB- Brad Jones (Packers 7th RD pick)

Truthfully I knew little about this surprise linebacker that was drafted with the Packers last pick. He caught my eye mid-season and to my surprise, learned he went 218th overall. Brad Jones former Colorado LB was a three-year starter in a 3-4 scheme. You’d think having knowledge of a system that most of the NFL runs would up his ranking. Either way, his rookie season was excellent and should grow into a regular in Green Bay’s starting rotation. 26 tck’s 4 sacks

[7] WR- Louis Murphy (Raiders 4th RD pick)

Heyward-Bey who? Louis Murphy has the skills to become a star in this league. This 4th round pick will have to compete with his own numbers from a year ago, as he led the Raiders in receptions, yards and touchdowns last year.

[6] CB- Glover Quin (Texans 4th RD pick)

If you told an NFL coach before day 2 of the draft, there was a rookie DB from New Mexico waiting in the 4th round that could start 12 games, he’d laugh in your face.

The Texans have had excellent draft classes in the last few years, but it’s been the work of scouting late round studs like Quin that has been given them high grades. After seeing Dunta Robinson split for Atlanta this offseason, true fans aren’t as worried knowing if a replacement can’t be found, bang for buck Glover Quin should continue to make plays.

[5] K- Ryan Succop (Chiefs 7th RD pick)

2009′s Mr. Irrelevant couldn’t have done more to shake that insulting nickname. Succop started all 16 games and hit all but one field goal under 49 yards (2 for 5 over 50+ yards, but nobodies perfect) Getting a starting kicker in the NFL with the dead last pick of the draft….not bad.

[4] WR- Julian Edelman (Patriots 7th RD pick)

Edelman has been given the nickname “Mini Welker”, which should stick for another season before he earning a more deserving name. The Patriots are one the NFL’s best teams at evaluating and teaching young players to produce at a high level. Edelman started 7 games and had strong numbers for being on a team with so many targets, but it was his performance in the playoffs that really open people’s eyes. With an off-season of mini-camps and training camp, the 232nd overall pick in last years draft could be a great fill in for Welker’s injury and maybe even a fantasy sleeper next season

[3] SS- Kevin Ellison (Chargers 6th RD pick)

The safety position is last line of defense, making it a high stress intense spot on the defense. Quarterbacks tend to read Safeties more than any other player pre-snap, that’s why we have to give it up for Kevin Ellison of the Chargers. The 6th round is not usually where you look to find starters for this position, but the 189th overall player drafted last year started 9 games and knocked the crap out of more than a couple guys.

[2] WR- Austin Collie (Colts 4th RD Pick)

Sure, Peyton Manning can make anyone look like a superstar, but it’s not as easy as just putting on a Colts jersey. Not many can step in and connect with their QB as fast as Collie did in his rookie season.  Collie had 60 rec, 676 yards and 6 Td’s in the regular season and was also a goto weapon for Manning in the playoffs, including 6 catches in the Super Bowl.

[1] WR- Johnny Knox (Bears 5th RD pick)

Johnny Knox was a lifesaver at times last season. This late round pick had more catches than any other rookie receiver in 09. Knox was forced into the spotlight by default, but regardless of the lack of competition, Johnny Knox was no doubt one of the best bang for buck players of last year.

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