Fantasy FanHouse

Andre Johnson Gets Knee Scoped, Texans Fans Panicking in the Streets

Stephanie Stradley — Tue, 20 May 2008 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Texans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, Houston

Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson had his left knee scoped and cleaned up last Thursday, and the Texans say he should be back by the beginning of training camp. (great video above of AJ talking about his surgery and other topics, including coach Alex Gibbs). This news is a little unnerving to Texans fans (and should be something that fantasy players should watch) because:

1. When Andre Johnson was out last year, the offense still functioned, but not as efficiently, especially in the red zone.

2. The Texans have had a history of being overly optimistic in talking about players coming back from knee problems. Andre Johnson was initially described as week to week after suffering his knee injury in Week 2 last year, then it was said he would be out 3 to 5 weeks, and he didn't end up coming back until Week 11.

Running back Ahman Green was also described week to week with his knee bone bruise injury last year, until the Texans decided that he really needed to shut it down. In the 2006 training camp, Domanick Davis/Williams was described as the perfect zone blocking back until he ended up never playing a down that year and then later retiring due to a knee bone bruise.

Mike Florio at PFT.com fans the fire by saying, "Johnson is signed through 2014, and there has yet to be talk of the Texans giving up on him. But it's an issue that the team eventually will need to consider, if Johnson's knee doesn't get any better - or continues to deteroriate (sic)."

Well yeah, if any guy's knee isn't getting any better, of course you have to ask that question. However, even the speculation of giving up on Andre Johnson at this point in his career is silly talk given his production even after he was injured last season.

If you speak to anyone with the Texans, they will tell you that Andre Johnson is the best conditioned athlete on the team. He's played 3 entire 16 game seasons, and missed 3 games in 2005 and 7 games in 2007. The man made the Pro Bowl twice even with David Carr as his quarterback, so he has to be someone pretty special.

In 2005, he missed three games due to an unspecified pain, variously described at the time as pain in the back of his left knee or in his calf near the knee. In 2007, he missed 7 games for receiving what was eventually described as a sprain to his left PCL and MCL.

The type of injury he had usually responds to rehabilitation without surgery, but as I understand it, it is not unusual to have to clean up small particles of floating cartilage that may have broken off related to the 2007 injury. That by scoping the knee, you get the best chances of the player coming back to full speed.

Even so, after coming back in 2007, Andre Johnson had touchdowns 5 out of 7 weeks, including a 73 yard touchdown against the Saints his first week back. Why would any sane person think that the Texans should consider giving up on a player who has been so productive and loves playing in Houston?

He has had only one reported knee surgery/scope since being drafted--the scope that happened last Thursday. So, yeah, issues with Andre Johnson's left knee is a matter of concern to fans, but probably nothing to deserve the minor alarmist-mongering contained in the PFT report.

The only good news coming from this is that second year wide receiver Jacoby Jones will get more reps in Andre Johnson's offseason absence, and reports coming out of OTAs say he is looking good.

Check out this first day OTA report for more news, including discussions of Gary Kubiak being concerned with defensive tackle, Travis Johnson having "inflammation of the pelvic area." Apparently, it has been bothering him for months. I've never heard of a player being hindered with pelvis inflammation, but I got to tell you, I'm a little afraid to google that.

Andre Johnson Gets Knee Scoped, Texans Fans Panicking in the Streets originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 20 May 2008 11:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ahman Green Out for the Season: Is His Career Over?

Stephanie Stradley — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 22:24:00 EST

Filed under: Packers, Texans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, Notre Dame Football, Houston

In an unsurprising move, Ahman Green was placed on IR today after it became apparent that the knee injury he suffered in Week 1 couldn't take game day activity. Undrafted Notre Dame running back, Darius Walker will be put on the active roster for the game against the Bucs this Sunday. Ron Dayne is expected to be the starter, though his time may be limited due to a minor ankle injury he suffered last week.

Green suffered what was called a "knee bone bruise" in the game against Kansas City. He tried to come back from that injury, but had to leave games due to swelling and pain. As I discussed last September, a diagnosis of a bruised knee bone gave Texans fans no comfort because the description of the injury sounded very similar to the same thing that ended Texans running back Domanick (Davis) Williams' career.

You hear fans talk about a bruised knee bone like it is no big deal, as if it is bumping it into a coffee table. However, as I understand it, the knee bone is a place with not a lot of blood flow, and can be hard to heal. If you have more of a medical interest in in knee bone bruises, check out this link. If you would like a first hand account of how knee bone bruises might slow down a sports blogfather, check out what Jamie Mottram has to say about it, including an x-ray of knee badness.

Domanick, Ahman, and Jamie: such promising sporting lives interrupted by what is a wussy sounding diagnosis, but actually is hard for doctors to treat, estimate healing time and determine its effect on future use.

Many people will suggest that Green on IR means that it was a huge mistake to sign an aging running back. Given his knowledge of the system the Texans were running you can understand why they acquired him, though the amount was a little brow raising. If the information that has been revealed about his injury is accurate, (a big if), any running back of any age could have been put on the IR with the same injury.

The Texans have buzzards luck with the injured reserve list, leading the lead with now 17 players on IR.

For those who are interested, you can check out Ahman Green's career to date stats here. Given his problems this season, they might be his final ones. He has come back from a worse injury, and in today's practice quotes he believes he will be back, and back with the Texans.

As for the Texans running game, one of Gary Kubiak's biggest regrets of last season wasn't getting rookie running back Chris Taylor more carries. Taylor went out during camp this year, but I am guessing Kubiak may have his regret about Taylor in mind some in wanting to see Darius Walker down the stretch.

In very limited time in the preseason, Walker had some promising moments with quick decision making and burst. Running against Tampa Bay can prove difficult in the best of circumstances, but will be a particular challenge given the new starter at the right guard position, Mike Brisiel.

If you are interested in getting more of a sense of who Darius Walker is, please check out his Wednesdays With Walker Texans TV segments. The Texans have him on camera showing how things are behind the scenes at Reliant Stadium.

Ahman Green Out for the Season: Is His Career Over? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 22:24:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Texans Lead the League....In Players on IR: Who's Playing Quarterback and Running Back?

Stephanie Stradley — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 18:07:00 EST

Filed under: Texans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, Houston

The Texans lead the league with players on IR with 16. By the end of the year last year, they led the league too.

This weekend against the Bucs, Texans starting quarterback Matt Schaub isn't expected to play due to a dislocated non-throwing arm, and will be replaced by backup Sage Rosenfels. There's a good video of Rosenfels talking about the start here. His backup is Shane Boyd, a midseason pickup who has never played a game with the Texans.

Rosenfels is a smart quarterback his teammates like and trust, and can sling the ball. He also tends to throw interceptions at inopportune times. Some fantasy players might be tempted to pick him up for the end of the season because the Texans have been able to pass the ball with Rosenfels, but the Texans are facing some tough pass defenses in the weeks ahead.

Running back Ahman Green suffered a bruised knee in week 1 of the season against Kansas City, and has struggled to come back from it. He practiced on Wednesday for the first time in a while and Gary Kubiak says he's optimistic.

Optimistic in Kubiak-speak means "Hey I am an upbeat guy by nature. Of course, this tells you nothing about whether he will play." If Green can't go, at some point he is going to go on IR to make room for someone who can get on the field.

Kubiak says that running back Ron Dayne suffered a twisted ankle last week but should be expected to play. Ideally, with only one healthy experienced QB, the Texans would like to run the ball a lot down the stretch like they did last year, but I am not sure physically they will be able to do it.

So basically, the Texans have four running backs to choose from. One has been injured for most the season, one is nicked up and two are very inexperienced. They will be running behind a line that will play the backup to the backup at the right guard position, and they haven't figured out who that guy is going to be. If Rosenfels goes out due to injury, a practice squad guy who wasn't with the team in camp is going to fill in. Oh. Joy.

The rest of this season isn't as much about wins and losses but rather learning and survival. They need this time to get their young players experience and hope no more of them get fluky horrible injuries that will harm them in future years.

Any more thoughts on this?

Texans Lead the League....In Players on IR: Who's Playing Quarterback and Running Back? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 06 Dec 2007 18:07:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Injury Updates: Leftovers Edition

Tom Herrera — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: NFL Injuries, Fantasy Football, Injury Report

The answer is Don't to the following two scenarios:

- If you were thinking about finishing off the remainder of the turkey leftovers. (It gets rubbery on the third day.)
- If you were thinking about starting some of these guys for your fantasy squads.

Without further ado, here's the injury news:

PLAYING

Bengals WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Get him back in your lineups if you moved him to the bench when the original injury talk hit.

OUT

Bills RB Marshawn Lynch -- Anthony Thomas will get the start in his place, but going up a very tough Jacksonville front.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs AND Derrick Ward -- It's Reuben Droughns who gets the start against a very tough Vikings defense. You probably only want to use Droughns if you have no other decent options or are in a deep league.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson -- They're playing the smart move and sitting him down. That means Chester Taylor gets the start once again. He won't blow up like he did last week, but is a solid RB2 against the Giants.

Seahawks RB Shaun Alexander -- He's got about four things wrong with his achy body. That gives way for the better performer, Maurice Morris, to get another nice start against the Rams. Chances are he's gone in most leagues, but if you've got him, definitely play him as a RB2 or flex.

Titans DT Albert Haynesworth -- This is big news on the fantasy front, as it impacts the value of Bengals RB Kenny Watson. With Haynesworth out, the Titans rush defense becomes considerably softer. So if you're in a bind at RB2, Watson is worth a play. And efinitely as a flex.

Steelers WR Santonio Holmes -- Holmes will miss Monday night's favorable tilt with the Dolphins. Bump up the value of WR Hines Ward and RB Willie Parker (they could lean more to running the ball). Also, if you're in a deep league and need a solid flier, it wouldn't surprise me if WR Cedrick Wilson wound up with 100 yards.

Panthers QB Vinny Testaverde -- I would never advocate sitting a great receiver like Steve Smith against a bad secondary like the Saints, but if you were thinking about playing that longshot, high-upside WR3, it may be worth it because Smith's stats could be disappointing once again.

Texans RB Ahman Green -- He could miss the remainder of the season if his knee condition doesn't improve. Ron Dayne is starting in his place and makes for a very nice flex or desperation RB2 against the Cleveland defense. Good chance at a touchdown and/or 10 total fantasy points.

Jaguars CB Rashean Mathis -- If you had WR Lee Evans sitting because of the threat of him being covered by a shutdown corner like Mathis, now's the time to get him back in your lineups. Without Mathis there to blanket him, Evans could have a very fine day.

Chiefs RB Larry Johnson -- No surprise here. Kolby Smith gets the start against the Raiders. We don't know much about what Smith can do and he underperformed in the preseason, but come on -- it's the Raiders. There is still high upside here, and he's definitely worth a shot if you need a last-minute running back.

Injury Updates: Leftovers Edition originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 25 Nov 2007 12:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Do You Think Vince Young Will Play Against the Texans?

Stephanie Stradley — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 22:40:00 EST

Filed under: Texans, Titans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

Titans quarterback Vince Young is sick of talking about his quadriceps injury, but fantasy players, betting folk, and others interested in the Texans-Titans game want to know more about it. So here's my ~~talking out of my rear~~ semi-educated guess on the subject matter:

Factors for Him Starting:
Past History. Titans coach Jeff Fisher tends to keep injury information very wishy-washy, and often former-Titan QB Steve McNair would not practice, or minimally practice, and still play the game. It is likely we find out the starter on game day. Young has been receiving treatment for his injury, and reports today said he threw the ball.

Vince Young and Houston. Though Young doesn't want to talk about the game against Houston as being special, you know he wants to stick it to the Texans every time he is in his hometown.

Factors For Him Sitting.
Nature of His Injury. Often, you can't get straight information from teams about injuries, so you have to look em up for yourself. From the appearance and description of his injury, and in my role playing fake doctor, it sounds like he had a second degree quadriceps strain. From what I've read about these, Young will be able to do normal activities, but may exacerbate his problem if he runs in a full sprint.

As Mario Williams knows, it is hard to own a Lamborghini and not drive it fast. Similarly, it would be difficult to put Vince Young in a AFC South battle in his home town, and expect for him to play it like a pocket passer.

Fisher's Statements. Jeff Fisher said that Vince Young is going to trust what the doctors tell him.

Given Young's annoyance in talking about his injury, I am guessing it is not likely he is going to play because he sounds like a guy who is grumpy about not playing. Don't take my word for it, this doctor guy says that re-injury to the quad is a real possibility. Also the less time the injury has to heal, the more likely that re-injury could occur, or perhaps a worse injury. Even a basic look-see on the internet has tons of stories of these sorts of quad injuries gone bad. Like this one:

Resting may be the common sense approach, but it is one that is often ignored by competitive athletes. This is unwise, since it does not take much to turn a grade one Thigh strain into a grade two, or a grade two Thigh strain into a grade three.

Why? Because athletes feel like they can function with this sort of quad strain unless they try to do something like kicking or sprinting. I'm guessing a double-threat quarterback with a chronically bad wheel would not be something that Fisher would want to cause by starting Young. A grade three thigh strain is one that requires surgery.

I could, however, be completely wrong about this, and have an open mind. What do you think the Titans will do? Start or sit Young?

Do You Think Vince Young Will Play Against the Texans? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 18 Oct 2007 22:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Texans Andre Johnson Likely Out for Another Month

Stephanie Stradley — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 16:52:00 EST

Filed under: Texans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, Houston

When Texans #1 receiver Andre Johnson strained his knee in Week 2 against the Panthers, estimates on his return were as long as five weeks. The Houston Chronicle is reporting today that it is likely that Johnson won't be back until the November 18th home game against New Orleans.

Uh-oh.

The Texans have a history of providing overly positive assessments to fans of when players will come back. See e.g. Tony Boselli, Domanick Davis/Williams, Charles Spencer. Hopefully, Johnson's situation is not in that league of unhappy results. For an additional information about Johnson's injury, please check out my September discussion.

The Texans have been able to throw the ball in Johnson's absence even without a functioning running game, but his presence is particularly missed in the red zone. If they can't figure out how to improve red zone scoring in Johnson's absence, field goal kicker Kris Brown is going to have a lot more opportunities like he did against the Dolphins.

Texans Andre Johnson Likely Out for Another Month originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 13 Oct 2007 16:52:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fantasy Alert: Giants' Plaxico Burress and Brandon Jacobs Will Play

Dan Benton — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 11:18:00 EST

Filed under: NY Giants, NFC East, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, New York

Although wide receiver Plaxico Burress missed every practice for the second straight week, it does appear that will start this afternoon when the Giants battle the Jets. And despite being at less than 100%, the 6-5 wideout matches up well against a much smaller Jets secondary. Expect him to put up some big time fantasy football numbers today.

In addition to Burress, the Giants will also see the return of running back Brandon Jacobs, who has not played since week one. And while Derrick Ward has been impressive in his absence, Jacobs is expected to receive the bulk of the Giants workload this afternoon.

Finally, the news on Osi Umenyiora does not seem nearly as positive. The defensive end who collected six sacks last week against Philadelphia missed two practices this week, and appears to be a game-time decision.

Fantasy Alert: Giants' Plaxico Burress and Brandon Jacobs Will Play originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 07 Oct 2007 11:18:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rams' Marc Bulger Played With Broken Ribs, Bruised Knee

Michael David Smith — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:47:00 EST

Filed under: Rams, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, St. Louis

Rams quarterback Marc Bulger had a lousy game in Sunday's 24-3 loss to the Buccaneers, but he has a pretty good excuse: Rams coach Scott Linehan disclosed Monday that Bulger has two broken ribs and a badly bruised knee.

"He was limited going into the game," Linehan said. "He has a couple of broken ribs, but he played with it. We're not going to say that's the reason he didn't have his best game of his career or anything like that. He will be much better this week; he got out of this game pretty healthy."

The Rams need Bulger to be better this week, especially without Steven Jackson. But overall, is there any way Bulger can get through this season healthy? He's already lost his best pass blocker, left tackle Orlando Pace. Although Alex Barron has performed well in Pace's absence, the decision to move Barron from left tackle to right had a ripple effect on the rest of the Rams' line.

For the Rams, it's hard not to think that this is a lost season. Sept. 25 is too early to start looking ahead toward next year, but does anyone really think they can be contenders this year?

Rams' Marc Bulger Played With Broken Ribs, Bruised Knee originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:47:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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How Many Games Will Andre Johnson Miss?

Stephanie Stradley — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 12:15:00 EST

Filed under: Texans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

You know, females get the reputation for being the biggest gossips, but it seems to me that the success of ProFootballTalk.com illustrates that guys like gossip too. Texans receiver Andre Johnson's knee is the focus of today's PFT gossip, as he reports that the "current scuttlebutt is he'll miss five weeks." He acknowledges that this gossip could be dog turd, but that's just what the gossip is. I appreciating knowing that.

Texans long snapper and Deadspin/Fark internet sensation, Bryan Pittman in today's Houston Press provides his own AJ scuttlebutt as someone who is actually in the locker room:

"Well, I haven't talked to him personally, but from what I gather, it shouldn't be a lengthy injury. Three weeks at the most, I think. But you never know. Everyone reacts differently when it comes to healing time."

(His interview is a good read for Texan fans, unless they are also Cowboy fans as he is not terribly impressed with the 2007 Cowboys team. He's a straightfoward talker, and you find the archives of the Pittman interviews here.)

Colts cornerback, Marlin Jackson isn't buying any of this injury talk:

"They say he's not playing but we'll see on Sunday."

The Texans are going to re-examine Johnson's knee on Friday and he has already said he doesn't anticipate playing against the Colts. Given the medical stuff linked to previously, I really do think that nobody knows how long Johnson will be out. Texans fans are accustomed to taking injury reports with a big dose of skepticism. That's what happens to people who bought a Tony Boselli jersey as their first one.

Previously at FanHouse:
Texan Andre Johnson 'Doubtful' Against Colts.

How Many Games Will Andre Johnson Miss? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 12:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Texan Andre Johnson 'Doubtful' Against Colts

Stephanie Stradley — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:52:00 EST

Filed under: Colts, Texans, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

Texans receiver Andre Johnson left the Carolina game in the 4th quarter after a big hit, and limped to the sidelines. The initial diagnosis was that he had a posterior cruciate ligament strain, and today after his MRI, it was announced that he is doubtful to play this weekend's game against the Colts. According to Gary Kubiak in today's press conference:

I would say that Andre's doubtful for that football game. But I think we're going to know more here in a couple days. There was no swelling, that's the good thing. But there is definitely a (knee) sprain there. And you know, we'll see, but we're concerned with Andre right now, and we can't answer all the questions right now to be honest with you.

He says that the knee sprain is both the good and the bad news:

We feel very fortunate, Andre's going to be fine. Is he going to be fine in a week, or is he going to be fine in four weeks? We're still in an evaluation process right now. But he's definitely got a sprain and we'll know more here in a couple days... But we expect him back, no doubt, and just hopefully sooner than later.

Given that Johnson is one of the league leading receivers and all the rest of the Texans receivers are young and/or unproven, everyone is interested in how the Texans to deal with this other than saying "oh @#$%." (feel free to insert favorite profanity for nonsense symbols). Kubiak's response:

The question I think that we'd have to answer is if Andre is unable to go, how are we going to go about it? Are we going to start Kevin (Walter) and Jacoby (Jones)? Are we going to leave both of those guys at the Z position and move Jerome (Mathis) or Andre (Davis) up to the X? So that's something we'll address, but as a staff, as we talked about it before I came down here, all four of those kids are going to play. They're all young players and we're going to have to- you know one of the things we said during training camp, and it's funny how things work out, a lot of people wanted to know who our number two receiver is going to be. And my answer to you guys all the time was that I'm concerned about the group being good, not who's going to be number two. So we're fixing to find out if the group can pick up the slack if Andre's going to miss some time.

So basically, it sounds like we'll have more information later this week. If you are eager to more now now now about his diagnosis, check out this link on PCL strains. The sum up for those of you not clicky inclined:

1. No swelling is a good thing
2. Typically, torn PCL's swell.
3. Technically, you can have a sprain that includes a tear, if it is a grade III sprain.
4. PCL sprains are not a preventable injury.
5. Recovery time is individual.

If any actual doctor-type people out there want to add some opining and various speculation, I'd love to hear it. Non-docs can comment too about the prospects of a no-AJ Texans team facing the Colts this weekend.

Texan Andre Johnson 'Doubtful' Against Colts originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:52:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Greg Jennings Inactive for Packers vs. Eagles

Michael David Smith — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Packers, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings is inactive and will not play today against the Eagles.

Jennings is listed as a starter on the Packers' depth chart, but he suffered a hamstring injury in Thursday's practice, and that means it will be at least another week for a player who was supposed to develop into a solid receiving threat for Brett Favre.

James Jones is likely to start in Jennings' place and have significantly more balls thrown his way as a result. The Packers' top receiver, Donald Driver, is also hurting, but he will play today.

As a rookie last season, Jennings showed flashes of talent but was hampered by an ankle injury. Now his sophomore season is getting off to an inauspicious start.

Greg Jennings Inactive for Packers vs. Eagles originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 09 Sep 2007 11:58:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rams' Torry Holt Might Not Be Healthy All Year

Michael David Smith — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 08:32:00 EST

Filed under: Rams, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, St. Louis

Rams wide receiver Torry Holt has battled a knee injury all off-season, but there are now indications that the injury is more significant than previously known.

In fact, Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Holt won't be completely healthy for the Rams' season opener and might not be completely healthy all year.

"It's just one of those deals where I'm not recovering as quick as I used to," said Holt, 31. "I have to get used to that and stay patient. ... I don't know if it'll ever heal all the way, but I think it will heal enough where it will allow me to go out and play."

Holt describes his knee at "70, 80 percent." Torry Holt at three-fourths speed is still better than a lot of NFL receivers, but that still represents a major dropoff for the Rams.

Hat tip: Pro Football Talk.

Rams' Torry Holt Might Not Be Healthy All Year originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 28 Aug 2007 08:32:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tendinitis Slows Redskins RB Clinton Portis

Michael David Smith — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: Redskins, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, Washington, DC

Redskins running back Clinton Portis continues to suffer from tendinitis in his right knee, and the condition kept him out of Tuesday's training camp practice.

It's the latest piece of bad news on the injury front for Portis, who got hurt in the Redskins' first 2006 preseason game (shortly after saying he didn't think veterans should have to play in the preseason because of the risk of injury) and was never fully healthy last season. Portis missed half the year and finished with just 523 rushing yards, almost 1,000 yards below his previous career average.

With Chris Samuels likely to miss the entire preseason with a knee injury, the Redskins' offense won't be at full speed for a while. If there's any good news for Redskins fans, it's that Ladell Betts played very well in place of Portis last year. They may need him to do the same this year.

Tendinitis Slows Redskins RB Clinton Portis originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frank Gore Breaks Hand, But He'll Be Fine

Michael David Smith — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: 49ers, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries, San Francisco

San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore suffered a broken right hand during yesterday's practice, but from all accounts it's not an injury that 49ers fans -- or Gore fantasy owners -- need to worry about.

Gore's injury took place during a non-contact ball-handling drill, and although it could force him to miss the entire preseason, it's a near certainty that the hand will be healed well enough for him to play when the regular season begins. If there's any concern about the hand, it's that Gore fumbled six times last year, and pain or reduced grip strength in his hand could make that problem worse.

Gore does have a long history of serious injury. He has had the ACLs in both knees and the labrums in both shoulders surgically repaired. But if anything, holding him out of the preseason will make him less likely to get hurt that seriously again. He'll be fine.

Frank Gore Breaks Hand, But He'll Be Fine originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 08:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Must Hear Gary Kubiak Radio Interview

Stephanie Stradley — Tue, 15 May 2007 11:48:00 EST

Filed under: Texans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Draft, NFL Injuries, Houston

If you are a Houston Texans fan, or are interested in the Texans from a fantasy football perspective, you need to listen to this morning's Gary Kubiak interview on Houston's SportsRadio 610. Great questions, very honest answers. He talks about just about every position on the team, and some of their thinking during the draft.

Anything particularly jump out at you?? I'd love to have a comment conversation about the interview as it contains so much information about the team. Personally, I was struck at how he called out kick returner Jerome Mathis and defensive tackle Travis Johnson basically saying that this was the year they both needed to step up for the team. Both of those players had injured, disappointing seasons last year, but even so, there were other injured players who didn't get singled out this way.

Must Hear Gary Kubiak Radio Interview originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Tue, 15 May 2007 11:48:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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David Carr Expected to Start Against the Bills

Stephanie Stradley — Mon, 13 Nov 2006 21:01:00 EST

Filed under: Texans, AFC South, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

Texans quarterback David Carr left the game against the Jaguars after getting a direct hit on his throwing shoulder after he released the ball. Early reports were that it was a bruised shoulder. He threw some on the sidelines after the hit, but didn't return to the game.

Gary Kubiak in his Monday press conference said:

"David (Carr) went for an MRI this afternoon we do not have it back yet, but we do feel like he's fine. He felt pretty good today; I would be surprised if there is a problem. I think he's going to be okay....All indications from (head athletic trainer) Kevin (Bastin) are that he will be fine and ready to go."

Though statistically Carr didn't have one of his better games against Jacksonville, he made plays when it mattered and didn't give up the ball to an aggressive defense. He was able to move the ball during crucial third downs and keep the offense on the field.

UPDATE 11/14: Carr's MRI was negative.

David Carr Expected to Start Against the Bills originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 21:01:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fantasy Alert: Willis McGahee Injured

Sportz Assassin — Sun, 05 Nov 2006 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

Buffalo Bills running back Willis McGahee was helped off the field with an apparant leg injury.

In the Bills first drive, McGahee was rushing to pick up a first down and was stuffed by the Packers. In the pile, it seems as if McGahee's body was twisted. He was helped off the field by two trainers and then carted to the locker room.

This is big since Willis McGahee had a major knee injury at the end of his final season at Miami-FL. Right now, it isn't known how serious this injury is. Anthony Thomas has taken over the main running back duties for the Bills.

UPDATE: Well, the good news is that it is a rib injury suffered by McGahee....which takes the thought of him tearing up his knee again out of our heads. Still, he's out for the remainder of this game and it is unclear how serious this injury is right now.

Fantasy Alert: Willis McGahee Injured originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sun, 05 Nov 2006 13:29:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ben Survives A Full Practice, But Cowher Remains Noncommittal

JJ Cooper — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 21:56:00 EST

Filed under: Steelers, AFC North, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

Ben Roethlisberger made it through Thursday's practice with no problems, and he's passed every post-concussion brain function test this week. But that doesn't mean that Bill Cowher is ready to pronounce him the starter. If you were waiting for a decision for your fantasy team (especially with the Steelers facing the Raiders), here's the bad news: Roethlisberger will be a game time decision.

Cowher said a final decision on the QB's status won't be made until game time Sunday, mostly because Roethlisberger still must pass more of the post-concussion tests he takes daily. He has passed all tests so far, but any recurring symptoms or setbacks would cause him to sit out.

As far as concerns that he's coming back to soon go, Roethlisberger said that he trusts the decision of Dr. Joseph Maroon who is considered one of the top specialists on concussions.

"From talking to Dr. Maroon I think that people always speculate that after you have one concussion, you're susceptible to more and then more on top of that," Roethlisberger said. "But from what we've researched and understood is that as time passes, that susceptibility goes away."

There was some more good news for the Steelers, as Joey Porter made it through practice with no problems and was upgraded to probable. The other starting outside linebacker Clark Haggans (ankle) and nose tackle Casey Hampton (hamstring) did not practice and are questionable.

Ben Survives A Full Practice, But Cowher Remains Noncommittal originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Thu, 26 Oct 2006 21:56:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Just When Will the Seahawks Get Hassel-Back?

albaNY Hawker — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 13:22:00 EST

Filed under: Seahawks, NFC West, Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

While this is the most pressing question on the minds of everyone in Seahawk Nation, until there is a definitive response from the medical staff, this man is the answer.

(EDIT: Lastest news on Hasselbeck is that he'll miss at least three weeks )

This man is Seneca Wallace. Since he is a black man who plays the quarterback position, of course he is known more for his "athleticism" and being a viable run threat, but he wouldn't be backing up the most important position on a Mike Holmgren coached team if he couldn't also throw the ball.

The Seahawks spurned several opportunities in the off season to sign a more seasoned veteran as the back-up QB, which seemed odd in the light of them using Seneca Wallace as a wide out in the NFC Championship game against the Panthers. One could only assume from that decision that although his athletic talents were being mostly wasted on the sidelines carrying a clipboard, Holmgren, the master quarterback evaluator who mentored Montana, Young and Favre, figures Wallace possesses the talent to run this team, and thus was more valuable in his current role.

Or it could be that we were just flush with wide receiver talent?

Whatever the case, all hopes for the Seahawks breaking the only curse yet to claim its victim, the one where the Superbowl runner-up misses the playoffs the following season, rests in the hands, and legs, of one Seneca Wallace. And perhaps this can be a blessing in disguise.

Our offensive line has been anything but dominant this season, leading to Hasselbeck getting knocked around like a drunken freshmen coed at a fraternity party, so maybe having a more mobile QB in the backfield will help. Wallace has been a part of this offense for several years now, so maybe there are a few plays in the playbook that leverage his specific talents, that Holmgren can unleash on gameday.

And maybe if Shaun Alexander will be ready to play in a week or two, this will reduce the amount of pressure directed at the Seahawks quarterback, since the running game has been about as potent as the watered-down complimentary cocktails served at Atlantic City casinos, in the absence of the league MVP.

Whatever the prognosis on Hasselbeck, he'll most certainly miss the next game against the Chiefs, and most probably the Monday Nighter against the Raiders, so we'll see if Wallace can live up to his nickname "AVIS", because the Seahawk faithful know he's Number Two, and that he'll absolutely need to Try Harder.

Just When Will the Seahawks Get Hassel-Back? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Mon, 23 Oct 2006 13:22:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fantasy: Who's In/Who's Out In Week 7?

Sportz Assassin — Sat, 21 Oct 2006 12:12:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy Football, NFL Injuries

QB Byron Leftwich [right] is still iffy to start for the Jaguars. This is huge since Leftwich is staring at that Texans defense and fantasy owners are anxious to start him there. Still, it may not be totally advisable, since WR Matt Jones will miss this game with his bad hammy.WR Bobby Engram is out for Seattle as his thyroid condition has been caused by a virus and Graves disease.
WR Donte Stallworth is still a gametime decision....but I'm not expecting him to play. He hasn't in a few weeks so it would be too risky to start him right now.
It will be Joey Harrington getting the start at QB for the Miami Dolphins as Daunte Culpepper is still nursing his knee injury.
Expect RB Ahman Green to start for the Packers against Miami.
QB Peyton Manning owners are licking their chops at a Redskins secondary that will be without CB Carlos Rogers and starting CB Shawn Springs, who is making his first start of the season after injury.
WR Chad Johnson missed Friday's practice....but should play for the Bengals. They really need him, as WR Kelly Washington is out with his hamstring, WR Tab Perry was placed on IR and WR Chris Henry is still serving his suspension.
Speaking of Bengals, their defense will most likely take a big hit as S Dexter Jackson and LB Brian Simmons are expected to miss Sunday's game. That is great news for QB Jake Delhomme, WR Steve Smith, WR Keyshawn Johnson and RB DeShaun Foster owners who were already liking their matchups with a sub par Cincy defense.
Despite being listed as questionable, expect WR Laveranues Coles to start for the Jets against the Lions.
Newly acquired DT Anthony McFarland will suit up and play for the Colts. This isn't the greatest news for Clinton Portis owners...as McFarland will most assuredly step up his game to show Indy what goods they dealt for. Also, expect WR Brandon Stokely to be out for this game.
RB/KR DeAngelo Williams, who really hasn't done much for fantasy owners, will miss his game with the Bengals.
Fantasy bigwig WR Larry Fitzgerald remains out with his hamstring injury....as is RB Shaun Alexander with his foot.
Both QBs Aaron Brooks and Trent Green will, as expected, miss this week again.

Fantasy: Who's In/Who's Out In Week 7? originally appeared on Fantasy FanHouse on Sat, 21 Oct 2006 12:12:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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