Early look to Fantasy Football Big Board

Well, heres to football and hoping something gets sorted out soon. 12 guys who are atop my list, even though we are about 3 months away from the start of fantasy fanatics season.

1 Adrian Peterson

2 Michael Vick

3 Chris Johnson

4 Maurice Jones Drew

5 Jamaal Charles

6 Roddy White

7 Aaron Rodgers

8 Michael Turner

9 Arian Foster

10 Tom Brady

11 Andre Johnson

12 Calvin Johnson

NFL Draft Mock Top 7 Picks

This year's draft doesn't bring the excitement with possible trades and swapping of picks not going to happen because of the oh-so-exciting Labor Deal issue, but that doesn't mean there's no surplus of talent available. My mock draft for the first 7 picks on Thursday:

1. Panthers-Cam Newton- This guy is the prime example of a hit or miss. He has shown character issues and ran draw plays half the time in college, and now has to be the face of a franchise? With that said, his physical ability and football IQ is hard to ignore, and the Panther's organization really likes him and knows it will be hard to grab another talented Qb later in this draft.

2.Broncos- Marcell Dareus- The Broncos have 3-4 solid options here, but Dareus is the right pick. Adding him to the line, plus Dumervil coming back from injury equals a solid pass rush in the 3-4 out in Denver.

3. Bills-Von Miller- I think Miller might be the one who everyone remembers from this draft. His game is very similar to Lance Briggs and can fit into the 3-4 well to help rebuild the Bill's D.

4. Bengals- Blaine Gabbert- The lure of grabbing one of the top Qb's is too much for the Bengals to say no, especially with Carson Palmer still a question mark.

5. Cards- Patrick Peterson- The Cards were hoping for one of the QB's, but Peterson has way to much value to pass up. Peterson may be the next great shut down corner in the league with his size and hands, plus his returning skills are an added bonus.

6. Browns- AJ Green- The city of Cleveland will finally catch a break as Green falls to them. He reminds so many scouts of Calvin Johnson and will be a great target to help develop Colt Mccoy.

7. 49ers- Prince Amukamara- The Niners were atrocious in defending the pass last year, so Prince will fit in. The Niners will hope though that possibly Peterson or Miller falls to them, or might go with Bowers outta Clemson.

Nfl Draft: Players to keep an eye on

Here's 3 players who could make an impact right away while going mid to late first round:

1. Drake Nevis-DT-Lsu- The senior is known for his pass rush ability, but he needs to improve his run defense. Can start immediately on a D-line in the NFL.

2. Mikel Leshoure-RB-Ill- His stock is rising quickly, and he could be a top 20 pick by April. Size could be an issue but his 40 time should carry him into the 1st round.

3. Mike Pouncey-OL-FLA- Mike as been called better than his twin brother Maurice, who is on the Super Bowl bound Steelers and made the pro bowl as a rookie. Pretty exceptional comparison.

Bears Offseason

Well, season over. Now on to the off season and some moves Da bears might make.

1. Draft- It seems like 5 years ago when the Bears had a first round pick. I see them going for a defensive lineman early and also some secondary help. An OL player will be taken early, and a receiver is a possibility also.

2. Through free agency, i think the Bears have to look for a reliable, veteran backup to Cutler. Seneca Wallace or Kerry Collins would be a good fit. Richard Seymour would be nice,with Tommie Harris losing production but he's going to want a lot of dough. A CB like Ike Taylor would really bring some veteran leadership to help Bowman and Moore.

3. The Bears don't have any major free agents, but resigning Olin Kreutz and Corey Graham( who was outstanding on special teams) should be at the top of the list. Extensions for Olsen and Forte could happen too with their deals ending soon.

NFL Mid Season Awards

MVP- Michael Vick- Vick has led the Eagles to the NFC East division lead despite plenty of controversy in the early going of this year. The big stat is that he is 5-0 as the starter with no interceptions.

Offensive POTY- Roddy White- White and Matt Ryan look like Brady and Moss in '07, with White catching everything that is thrown towards him. #84 already has 7 TDs and over 1000 yards for the "Dirty Birds."

Defensive POTY- Clay Matthews- The second year LB out of USC has really strived with the blitzing scheme, as his sack total shows it at 11.5.

Offensive Rookie- Sam Bradford- The Rams actually have shown signs of life with Sam under center. Stephen Jackson has got to love with what he's seeing from him.

Defensive Rookie- Ndamukong Suh- The big D-lineman has been every as advertised, as the Lions have definitely found someone to build around on their defense.

Comeback- M.Vick- Another award for Mr. Vick, as this one is all but racked up for Vick.

Coach- Mike Tomlin- Well, Brad Childress is definitely not getting this award. But in all seriousness, you can't not like with where Tomlin has this team, especially starting the season with no Big Ben.

Randy Moss Destinations

Well, that worked out well for the Vikings. Only 2 TD catches in four games and a third round pick later, he's looking for a new job. 4 teams that Moss might be in their jersey by tomorrow:

Rams- #13 in waiver order- This is the first legit team that might take a shot with Moss. The Rams are down 3 receivers( Alexander, Avery, and Clayton) and have a young stud QB in Bradford, who needs veteran receivers for a team that is surprisingly in contention.

Saints-#21- Can you imagine Moss to go along with Brees and all those weapons already there? You talk about scary. Brees would also get Moss to behave better, since he owns that locker room.

Titans-22- Coach Jeff Fisher said they would give Randy Moss " a good, hard look", especially since emerging wide out Kenny Britt went down last week.

Seahawks-#16- Randy probably doesn't get past their spot, as Pete Carroll is always looking for talent for his "sea birds" in the wide open NFC West.

We should know where he lands by 3pm tomorrow. Happy hunting!

MNF: Packers vs Bears

Some of my thoughts after the thrilling game at Soldier Field:

• The big play for the Bears D finally came, and it wasn't a second too late. All game we were waiting for that turnover the Bears needed, and it never came. But leave it to Briggs and Urlacher to set up the win for Da Bears
• The Packers were dominate on the field, but their own mistakes ultimately cost them the game. 17 yellow flags is ridiculous and undisciplined for a team that is predicted to make it to Dallas in February. 3 interceptions were overturned because of penalties, which led to second chances for the Bears to put points on the board.
• If you haven't notice by man, Jay Cutler is a man. He takes so many hits and then never gets into his line's face. Sure, he has his outbursts, but he knows how to control himself and get back into the huddle calmly.
• DEVIN HESTER. Is he back? He sure looked like he was. Check back in a couple of weeks to see if he is old Devin again.
• Aaron Rodgers is as valuable to the Pack, as Peyton is to the Colts. He knows how to perfectly place balls in coverage and how to change it up at the line. Plus his mobility, wow! The Bears looked like they had him multiple times, and he wasn't even sacked once!
• The most amusing part for me was during the most tense part, ironically. The squib kick at the end of the game, and the Packers committing forward lateral passes. By the third forward pass, the ref was out of flags and used his own hat to end the game.

NFL Injuries

Just a recap of some injuries in week 1 that will impact teams for the rest of the year:

Kris Jenkins- Jets- Even though the Jets have experienced his absence before, it is still a major blow to a defense that is starting to lose players on the D-Line.

Ryan Grant- Packers- With Grant gone, the Packers are essentially going to throw the ball every time. Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn will not be good enough to get it done. Look for a trade made on the Packer's part.

Bob Sanders- Colts- The surprise for the Colts in week 1 was their loss to Houston, not Sander's injury. He has been off and on with his injuries, and the Colts are used to not relying on him.

Jamaal Jackson and Leonard Weaver- Eagles- 2 key players from the Eagles blocking scheme hurts bad, as their seasons' are lost. Plus, there is still more uncertainty, with QB Kevin Kolb out.

NFL Quick Hits: Week 1

I hand out my awards for Week 1 performances on Sunday:

MVP- Tom Brady- Threw for 258 yards and 3 scores, and helped the Pats dismantled the defending AFC North Champion Bengals.

MVP( Fantasy)- Arian Foster- With the Texan's passing game not on key, Foster only ran for 231 yds and 3 TD to help Houston finally take down the Colts.

LVP- Kevin Kolb- Was not having a good game when he left due to a concussion, and may not even start now with the emergence of M. Vick.

LVP(Fantasy) CJ Spiller- Rookie only managed 6 yards total, as debut came no where to expectations.

Biggest Win- Packers- Went into Philly and beat a strong and dangerous team in the Eagles. Now are sitting atop the division, with the Vikings looking up.

Poorest Effort- Niners- Absolutely got run over by Pete Carroll and the "Sea Birds", as NFC West favorites look like the Rams of the division.

People not wanted in Detroit: Ron Artest and the Bears- Lions officiating crew.

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NFL Season Preview: Part 3

My Final NFL Preview part, which i make 5 Bold Predictions for the upcoming Season.

• Derek Anderson will put up 2007 like numbers. Anderson takes over as the Matt Leinart era in Arizona finally ends. Even without Boldin, Anderson will throw for 22+ TD and 3,000 yards. He still has a top 3 WR in Fitzgerald and look for the emergence of Steve Breaston to help.
• The Saints won't go marching into the playoffs. I think the Saints will have another strong 9 or 10 win season, but i think there is too much power in the NFC. The Falcons got more talented, and I see them to win the South.
• CJ Spiller will win Offensive Rookie of the Year. The Bills were criticized for taking Spiller 9th overall, even with a crowded back field. What I see and compare this situation to is Adrian Peterson when he was drafted. Chester Taylor was with the Vikings, but they took the best player available, which is what the Bills also did. I bet the Bills hope the Spiller situation ends like the Peterson one.
• Albert Haynesworth will be traded or cut by mid-season: This distraction has gone on way too long, and Coach Mike Shanahan won't stand for it much longer. Look for the Titans, Texans, and Bucs to pursue him hard.
• The Patriots will bring home another Super Bowl. Tom Brady and Randy Moss are both in contract years, and now fully healthy. The defense has not suffered any significant losses, plus the "hooded genius" is always roaming the sidelines. Add it all up, and the only thing missing is former Super Bowl kicker Adam Vinatieri.

NFL Season Preview: Part 2

NFL Season Preview: Part 2- Here are my division and playoff picks-

AFC North- Ravens

AFC East- Jets

AFC West- Chargers

AFC South- Colts

Wild Cards- Patriots and Steelers

NFC North: Packers

NFC East: Cowboys

NFC West: Cardinals

NFC South: Falcons

Wild Cards- Vikings and Niners

AFC Championship Chargers vs Patriots

NFC Championship Cowboys vs Vikings

Super Bowl Patriots vs Cowboys

Champion: Dallas Cowboys

NFL Season Preview: Part 1

NFL football is here. Cubs fans can rejoice as they look forward from a lousy Cubs team to a 7-9 Bears team. Yay. First part of my 3 part season preview:

Player award predictions:

MVP: Tom Brady: Fully healthy, and will look to go back to the Super Bowl with the Pats, who will have to overcome a tough division.

Offensive POTY: Chris Johnson: He's back; and still dangerous as ever. Chris will rack up at least another 1,600 yards plus 12 scores.

Defensive POTY: Patrick Willis: Already a top LB in the league, Willis is ready to bring the Niner's D into the big stage.

Comeback Player: Clinton Portis: With Mcnabb and a new offensive scheme in Washington, a change of scenario might just be what this RB needed.

NFL defensive rookie: Eric Berry: The Chief's coaching staff has raved about Berry, saying he already has a veteran's leadership on the field.

Offensive Rookie: CJ Spiller: Could be the steal of the draft, and will get plenty of touches due to injuries in the Bill's backfield.

Coach of the Year: Mike Tomlin: Steelers- Even with Roethlisberger's suspension, Tomlin will find a way to get the Steelers back to the playoffs.

Next Time: Division and Playoff picks

NFL Offseason

Many moves were made over the spring during the NFL off season that may have a big impact on teams this year. My winners and losers:

Winners:

Jets- Brought in key players like Santonio Holmes, Ladainian Tomlinson, and Jason Taylor to go along with a super, strong defense and a more experienced Mark Sanchez. The only question mark is Revis, who the Jets will need to make a run for Dallas.

Bears- Mike Martz brings his new offense to town to try to help Jay Cutler and a young receiving core, plus the addition of Julius Peppers and Chris Harris makes the Bears start to look the the "Monsters of the Midway" again.

Saints- The defending champs return 20 of 22 starters and all their top assistants from last year. With the core intact, Brees and company will look for another party on Bourbon Street again.

Losers:

Steelers- Losing Big Ben to a possible 4 game suspension hurts bad. Have fun with Byron Leftwich. Former Superbowl MVP Santonio Holmes is gone, and injuries are still lingering on this roster.

Cardinals- Kurt Warner retired after helping the Cards reach the Superbowl just 2 years ago. Stud players on the defense( Rolle & Dansby) left via free agency, and a big question is left: Can Leinart get Larry Fitzgerald the ball?

Larry Mayer Exclusive

I got a chance to catch up with ChicagoBears.com lead writer Larry Mayer and ask him a couple of questions about training camp and this upcoming season.

Q: "What is an under the radar topic coming into training camp?"

A: "Everyone is talking about Mike Martz's new offense, but the big key to me is the defense, especially the D-line. I talked to one of the veterans on the team, and he said we will only go as far as our defensive line takes us."

Q: "Chester Taylor was brought in this year, and there has been talk that if Forte struggles early, Taylor could take most of the carries. Who do you think will get the majority of the carries by season's end?"

A: "I think actually they will split the work load, and barring injury, I don't think one will get much more carries that the other. In their Super Bowl year(2006), they had two quality backs in Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson. I think the Bears thought they were really missing that last year, and getting another running back was a top priority this off season."

Q: "The secondary has always been an issue with the Bears. Who do you see starting this year?"

A: "Zach Bowman and Charles Tillman have been working out at the conerback position, with Chris Harris and Daniel Manning at the free safety and strong safety positions, respectively. The secondary was a top issue in the off season, but with a veteran safety in Harris leading the way, and rookie Major Wright looking sharp, look for major strides this season."

Q: "Who do you think will be a breakout player on the offensive and defensive side of the ball?"

A: " Zach Bowman has great ball skills and with a better pass rush this year, he will have 8 interceptions. I will make a prediction that he will make his first Pro Bowl this year. On offense, Devin Aromashodu , who is making every play in camp, is sure to have a great season. He is a rare combination of size and speed, and will get plenty of opportunities this season."

Thatsportskid thanks Larry Mayer for his time and I look forward to more interviews to come.

Albert Haynesworth

I'm pretty sure every person in the world would love to be in Albert Haynesworth's position right now. Well except for Albert that is. He is on his seventh day of trying to pass a conditioning test that will allow him to finally practice with the team and earn his millions of dollars in a paycheck. It's ridiculous that a professional athlete can not complete a simple running test. Many people much older and much younger than him can pass this test with ease. He has been a huge distraction this off season, and now he has come to camp and is an even bigger distraction with this simple, little test. Mike Shanahan will give Albert no pass and that is the right call. If you can't pass this, your letting your teammates, coaches, and fans down. You don't deserve to earn all that money and especially to play on Sunday.

The Favre Saga

Quoting Heath Ledger as the Joker, " And here we go." Again. Brett Favre has retired again, according to multiple reports. He has still yet to officially confirm it but some Vikings teammates have received texts saying, "This is it." Although this is Brett Favre, and even with his un-retirements in the past, I think there is a good chance he's done. He has said he is not completely healthy and this is a good time to announce it to the Viking's organization so QB battles can begin in camp. However, I can see Favre coming back in the middle of the season. The Vikings have a very tough schedule after their week 4 bye, with the Jets, Cowboys, Packers, and Patriots. If the Vikings and Tavaris Jackson struggle leading up to those 4 tough games, do not be surprised at all if Favre gets on a plane from Hattiesburg, Mississippi and joins coach Childress and the rest of the team to try to make another Super Bowl run.

Anyway it plays out, this Favre Saga has been exhilarating at times and even tiring. One thing is certain though: This Saga would make one hell of a movie.

NFL Rookie Contracts

Something is wrong with the NFL. No, its not the recent studies showing serious brain injuries, or even the labor negotiations. Its the outrageous contracts that rookie players are signing before even playing a down in the NFL. Sam Bradford just signed a $78 million, $50 million guaranteed contract for the Rams as the top overall pick. This is a player just coming off arm surgery and is making more than established Qb's like Aaron Rodgers, Tony Romo, and Matt Ryan. Players who should make that much money are QB's like Brees, Brady, and Peyton Manning, all who will get a raise and new contract this year. Darrelle Revis has been holding out for big time money. I applaud him. He has shown he is the best CB in the game and has shut down any WR that has come his way. There is no way no other CB should be making more money than him, especially a rookie cornerback. Even if these rookies are impact players immediately, there should still be a system in which every year the pick number(ex. pick number 8) gets the same contract and amount every year, and if after 2 years they prove they are worth more money, the contract should be re-constructed. Veterans who have been in the league for years and are bruised and have multiply surgeries are probably not happy that some rookie is making more than them and they even haven't been through training camp! Roger Goodell should have this up there as a top priority to fix this.

T.O. Meet Mr.OchoCinco

Now that Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco have joined forces, I can't wait to see these two play together. Their duel player touchdown celebrations will be marvelous. Its too bad that NBA players can't team up somewhere and play together....O wait. People talk about how this will be a distraction for the Bengals, who will try to win their division again. The only distraction will be who the defense decides to double cover. Even though both are older, they still have premier talents and can create space for one another. Watching the Bengals will be one of my priorities this season.

Fantasy Football Pre-Rankings

Here are my top 12 players going into the season.

1. Chris Johnson(Ten)
2. Adrian Peterson(Min)
3. Maurice Jones-Drew(Jac)
4. Steven Jackson(STL)
5. Andre Johnson-(Hou)
6. Ray Rice(Bal)
7. Drew Brees (No)
8. Michael Turner(ATL)
9. Frank Gore(SF)
10. Rashard Mendenhall(PIT)
11. Aaron Rodgers(GNB)
12. Larry Fitzgerald(ARI)

My players for a breakout year:

Shonn Greene(NYJ) He will have the starting job in his second year, plus a veteran line and more experienced Mark Sanchez.

Rashard Mendenhall (PIT) I have him in my top 10 as i think he can become a premier back in the AFC.

Tony Romo(DAL) Add Dez Bryant to already Roy Williams and Miles Austin, plus Jason Witten, and Romo can easily throw for 3,000 yards.

Players I'm not high on-

Thomas Jones(KC) Jamaal Charles will eventually get most of the hand offs in KC.

Roy Williams(DAL) He might lose his spot to rookie Dez Bryant.

Tony Gonzalez(ATL) Starting to lose production in the red zone.