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Footballguys.com Daily Email Update
Volume 4 Issue # 92
August 16, 2003
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. QB Michael Vick (ATL) Fractures Fibula
2. WR Jimmy Smith (JAC) Suspended 4 Games
3. TE Jeremy Shockey (NYG): Broken Rib
4. C Barret Robbins (OAK) Returns to Field
5. HC Dick Vermeil (KC): Brutally Honest
6. Jaguars QB: Bright Future
7. Minnesota Vikings Huddle Up
8. QB Quincy Carter (DAL) Takes Command
9. WR Ahmad Merritt (CHI) Sparkling
10. S Matt Stevens (HOU): No Surgery Required
11. DT Lional Dalton (DEN) on the Block
12. WR Rod Gardner (WAS): More Receptions in 03?
13. DE Hugh Douglas (JAC) Struggling
14. RB Troy Hambrick (DAL) Feels a Nudge...and Responds
15. FB Donnel Thompson (IND) Tears ACL
16. WR Pinkston's Extension: Salt in Staley's Wound
17. TE Frank Wycheck (TEN) Suffers Concussion
18. DT Brandon Noble (WAS) Suffers Knee Injury

Hi Folks,

Good Grief. What a night. Thanks to Footballguy Shawn Culcasi for rounding up these stories. We'll start with a followup up to the Vick injury we told you about during the game. Let's get to it.

Joe

1. QB Michael Vick (ATL) Fractures Fibula

Clipped From: Associated Press

Atlanta Falcons star Michael Vick fractured his right fibula Saturday night during an exhibition game against Baltimore, and team owner Arthur Blank said the quarterback will be sidelined at least six weeks.

Blank said Vick wouldn't have surgery. If Vick's out six weeks, he'll miss the first four games of the regular season, and would return Oct. 5 against Minnesota.

"This team will have to pull together, and we'll all have to play at a little higher level than they were going to before," Blank said. "But they have the capacity to do that."

Philadelphia quarterback Donovan McNabb had a similar injury last year and was out two months.

"I am terribly disappointed," Vick said in a statement. "But this is the ultimate team sport and we will have to keep playing. I have confidence that these guys and coaches can get it done."

It was the first-ever matchup of Vick and Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis, one of the top defensive players in the league, but Lewis never got a chance to tackle Vick before the injury.

On third-and-6 from the Atlanta 5 late in the first quarter, Vick was chased out of the pocket and was tackled by Adalius Thomas. Vick fell awkwardly on his right leg and grabbed it even before he hit the ground.

Thomas, after briefly celebrating the tackle, went back to check on Vick and several of Vick's teammates knelt beside him. When it was apparent he was hurt, a hush came over the crowd at the Georgia Dome.

After he was examined by the Falcons' medical staff, Vick got up with some help and limped a few steps to a cart. The crowd gave him a standing ovation as he was driven to the locker room.

"That hurts our league and the Falcons, and I feel for him," Lewis said. "He's my friend, and he'll be back. I'll call him and give him encouragement."

Blank immediately went to Atlanta's locker room to see Vick, and he stayed until the diagnosis.

"He started crying, I started crying," Blank said. "It's like one of your children. He's a 23-year-old who's imagining the worst. It's painful."

Vick got off to a rough start against the Ravens, getting sacked on the first play and throwing an interception on the next one. He finished 0-for-4, and rushed for 8 yards.

"I think that whole half was frustrating and what happened to Mike really topped it off," Atlanta receiver Peerless Price said. "We didn't do anything right and then we lose our man."

Last season, Vick made the Pro Bowl in his first full season as a starter and set three NFL records for rushing by a quarterback.

Doug Johnson, who becomes the starting quarter in Vick's absence, completed 6 of 11 passes for 76 yards, including a 42-yarder to MarTay Jenkins. Last year, when Vick missed a game against the New York Giants, Johnson filled in and led the Falcons to a 17-10 victory, starting an eight-game unbeaten streak.

"Obviously, Mike is a critical part of this team, but the players have a tremendous amount of confidence in Doug Johnson, and Mike does, too," Blank said.

Everyone knows how huge a blow Michael Vick's injury is to our hobby. A consensus top 3 QB, he was supposed to revolutionize the quarterback position with his incredible rushing ability and improving skills as a passer. While the revolution looks to be on hold for at least six weeks, Atlanta's season is far from over.

What does it mean for Vick's replacement, Doug Johnson? An undrafted free agent in 2000, Johnson has shown flashes over the past 3 seasons of being able to lead this team, including last year's victory over the Giants (in New York). An unrestricted free-agent after the 03 season, he'll be playing for a big payday and should rise to the challenge. If not, Atlanta's only other options are Kurt Kittner and David Rivers, neither of whom has thrown an NFL pass, so we may see them search the free-agent market for a capable veteran.

What does it mean for Peerless Price? It MIGHT not be as devastating as you think. Doug Johnson is a gunslinger who may just come out and light things up, keeping Price's value fairly consistent with where we previously ranked him, #16 wide receiver with 76-1098-7. His average draft position is as the 11th overall receiver, so we feel that he was already a bit overrated. This should even that out.

If Johnson struggles, Price will certainly follow, for at least the first month or two of the season. What does it mean for Warrick Dunn/T.J.Duckett? This is a bit tougher. What was their situation in the first place? Dunn has shown the ability to be a feature back, based on his performance down the stretch last year with 6 20+ carry games and over 1000 total yards over the final 9. If the plan was for Duckett to eat into those carries, it probably won't change. The change for both will come in touchdowns, where Atlanta's first goalline option in Vick will now be watching from the sideline. I see this as an upgrade for both in the TD department, moving Dunn closer to the top 20 in running backs.

What does this mean for Michael Vick? Whatever happens, just remember that this was not a season ending injury. Early prognosis has Vick returning during week 5, so whatever changes occur with Doug Johnson under center will likely be short term. Coming back from a broken leg, you'd have to assume that his per game rushing numbers will suffer. Whether his development as a passer will make up for the loss in rushing stats is left to be seen. We've currently knocked Vick from his #2 ranking down to #25. While he will not start for you during the early portion of the season, he may come on as the top quarterback down the stretch, so do not forget about him during the middle rounds of your draft.

One important point to remember. The early word today has Vick missing the first four regular games. Many folks (especially non Fantasy Football fans) will soften that a little saying "It's a long season and it's four games". That's true. But consider the fact that most folks playing Fantasy Football have just a 14 game regular season, not a 16 game regular season like the NFL teams have. This means that if Vick misses the first four games, he'll miss almost 30% of the "regular" Fantasy season. Just something to keep in mind.

And here's a Shark move for you. Today is likely the best chance you'll have all year to trade FOR Mike Vick if your roster allows you to make a deal for a player you can't start until week 5. There will no doubt be Vick owners across the country who are panicking. And of course it's your job as a Shark to take advantage of their panic. If I had to pick an injury, I'd much rather have my guy deal with a broken bone as opposed to a torn ligament or tendon. If you've got the depth, obtaining Vick right now might be the reason your team excels in November. If you're a Vick owner, understand the other Sharks in your league are probably thinking the above so be careful about dealing him away too cheaply. His value will likely not be any lower than it is right now so unless you've got an owner willing to pay a lot, it probably makes sense to sit tight and go with your backup QB plan.

2. WR Jimmy Smith (JAC) Suspended 4 Games

Clipped From: CBS.sportsline.com (Pete Prisco)

The Jacksonville Jaguars suffered a major loss Saturday when coach Jack Del Rio announced that wide receiver Jimmy Smith would be suspended for the first four games for violating the league's substance-abuse program.

Smith, the team's top receiver, has been in the midst of a stellar training camp, proving that he was back to the form that helped make him a Pro Bowl player from 1997-2001.

A team source said Smith would enter a rehabilitation center to get treatment.

The 34-year-old Smith was arrested for driving under the influence in November of 2001, which put him in the league's substance-abuse program. Prosecutors later announced that he tested positive for cocaine. Smith denied using cocaine and said the test conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement must have been wrong.

"I've never done (cocaine), don't do it and I don't plan to do it," Smith said at the time.

That arrest is believed to have put Smith into the league's substance-abuse program, meaning he would be tested on a regular basis. The fact that he is being suspended for four games means he's in Stage Two of the league's program, and he's had two instances of failure to comply with the testing as a Stage Two participant.

Another substance abuse slip-up by Jimmy Smith could be a one-year suspension.(AP) Either Smith failed two tests, failed one and did not show up for another or did not show up for either test to force the league to suspend him. The NFL considers a no-show a failed test. Any combination, or any two instances where a player is deemed not to be complying with the program, would result in a four-game suspension, according to the collective-bargaining agreement.

A player can be in the Stage Two level of the program for 24 months or two seasons, whichever is longer.

Smith will now be placed into Stage Three of the program and any failed test or failure to show up will mean he's subject to a one-year banishment.

Smith will play the rest of the preseason, but starting the Monday prior to the opener he cannot be around the team's facility and must sit out the first four games. He is scheduled to be paid $3.5 million in salary this year, which means the four-game suspension will cost him $218,750 per game or $875,000.

This is a big time blow to a Jaguars team that was already thin on talent at wide receiver. With J.J.Stokes becoming the #1 receiver and the trio of Donald Hayes, Kevin Lockett and Matthew Hatchette battling for the #2 job, there will not be a lot of respect given to Jacksonville's passing game. Fred Taylor's uncertain status is already a concern, now he has to start the season without any relief from facing 8 man fronts that Jimmy Smith may have provided. The first month in Jacksonville will be touch and go and, hopefully for them and fantasy owners alike, Smith will be able to join a healthy Taylor during their week 5 matchup against San Diego. Adding to the bad news is the fact that two of the games that he'll miss are road games against divisional foes (Indianapolis and Houston). Not the way Jack Del Rio wanted to start his tenure. Best case scenario for Smith, his fantasy value is cut by roughly 30%, dropping him from the #14 receiver to #35. He might be a smart pick if he falls way down the boards and you can afford to keep him benched for the early going though.

3. TE Jeremy Shockey (NYG): Broken Rib

Clipped From: Associated Press

Tight end Jeremy Shockey broke a rib and might miss the New York Giants ' last two preseason games.

The second-year pro will play in the Giants' regular-season opener against St. Louis on Sept. 7, coach Jim Fassel said.

Shockey, a Pro Bowler as a rookie, was injured during a 20-10 loss to the Carolina Panthers.

It wasn't clear on which play Shockey was hurt, and after the game Fassel said X-rays were negative. But a small crack was found in later tests.

"He won't play this week, he's sore," Fassel said. "My comment to the doctor was what I want to make sure of is we get him back as soon as we can to practice. If it's iffy in the last (preseason) game, I won't play him, because the starters are only going to play a quarter."

The coach said Shockey would have played next weekend against the New York Jets if it were a regular-season game. The Giants play the Baltimore Ravens in their preseason finale Aug. 28.

"I don't know when he'll practice," Fassel said. "It could be three, four or five days or six days. With those things, the way they are explained to me now, it's when you can tolerate the pain."

Backup Marcellus Rivers will move into the starting lineup, with Darnell Dinkins and third-round draft pick Visanthe Shiancoe backing him up.

It sounds like a return from this injury will be determined by Shockey's pain threshold. Imagine the Willis Reed type stories that will come out of New York when he explodes during week one while grimacing with each step. While he'll likely miss the remaining two preseason games, the important quote here is "The second-year pro will play in the Giants' regular-season opener against St. Louis on Sept. 7", coach Jim Fassel said. We will not know more until he puts on the pads and actually takes a hit. Until then, we have downgraded him just a tad to the #2 tight end.

4. C Barret Robbins (OAK) Returns to Field

Clipped From: Mercury News (Steve Corkran)

Barret Robbins made his 2003 debut Thursday. That ended more than six months of battling back from the effects of getting suspended for the Super Bowl on Jan. 26 and offseason surgery on his left knee.

It also further muddied the situation as to who will start at center in the regular-season opener.

Raiders coach Bill Callahan said Robbins did "OK. ... He was back to his natural form."

Adam Treu started the game for the second straight time and played the first two series. Matt Stinchcomb played one series before Robbins played in a game for the first time since the AFC Championship Game on Jan. 19.

The four projected starters at the guard and tackle positions played the entire first half, with only the centers rotating.

For what it's worth, the Raiders offense performed best with Stinchcomb at center. Oakland moved 47 yards on a 10-play drive that bridged the first and second quarters.

Robbins earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors for his play last season. However, he lost his starting job after disappearing the day before the Super Bowl and returning in no shape to play, according to Callahan.

Robbins later was hospitalized and spent more than a month at the Betty Ford Center. Doctors diagnosed him with bipolar disorder soon after the Super Bowl. Robbins now is undergoing counseling and taking medication.

Callahan has said that the competition at center is wide open, with Robbins, Treu and Stinchcomb challenging for the spot.

Stinchcomb replaced Robbins in the second half and played well into the fourth quarter. The Raiders scored their lone touchdown with him in the lineup.

We all know Robbins' story as it's been well documented, and there are some who never thought that he'd make it back to this point. A Pro Bowl center, he should find his way back into the starting lineup, but it's left to be seen how his teammates will respond. If you remember, there were a couple of Raiders who were very outspoken last year, saying that they could not see themselves on the same field as Robbins. I have a feeling that will all get pushed aside once he shows that he's still a dominant offensive lineman who can help Oakland win games.

5. HC Dick Vermeil (KC): Brutally Honest

Clipped From: The Kansas City Star (Ivan Carter)

The generation that's too young to remember the Ron Jaworski era of Philadelphia Eagles football probably isn't aware that Dick Vermeil was best known as the college football announcer not afraid to say whatever was on his mind.

As the color man for ABC, Vermeil never hesitated to rail on offending referees and once said that Joe Paterno's Penn State pass offense "stinks." (Paterno later agreed.)

Vermeil is back on the sidelines now with the Chiefs, but that hasn't stopped him from offering brutally honest opinions from time to time.

Such was the case following last Saturday night's preseason loss to San Francisco when Vermeil was less than pleased with the performance of his second- and third-team players.

"I thought their second and thirds really performed very well and I was very disappointed in how our seconds and thirds performed," Vermeil said. "Some of those guys looked like they've never been on the practice field."

Vermeil was no less frank this week.

Though his offense has yet to score a touchdown and his secondary allowed San Francisco's Tim Rattay to look like Joe Montana, Vermeil is focused on his backups.

He's made it known that he wants to see something from those players tonight when the Chiefs take the field at Arrowhead Stadium for their third preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings.

Those players lost valuable playing time when the preseason opener against Green Bay was cut short by bad weather, but even that couldn't account for what Vermeil saw last Saturday.

Fumbles. Botched coverages. Poor tackling. Penalties. All attributes that have never been associated with a Dick Vermeil-coached football team, preseason or not.

"They'll play the second half for sure and I'd like to see them play like they've been coached," Vermeil said. "I'd like to see them play like they've played the game. We couldn't even get a quarterback-center exchange or a handoff. We had a guy who was a candidate for the Heisman Trophy who couldn't take a handoff. It's a different league. You've got to do it right."

Vermeil was referring to rookie first-round pick Larry Johnson, who is learning that there is a huge difference between rolling for big yards against Michigan State and doing the same in the NFL.

Vermeil's approach to the game (honest, emotional, willing to say whatever's on his mind) is a breath of fresh air in an era where prepared statements have become the norm. While you have to be careful of what you say (something that Jim Mora may not have understood), an upfront attitude goes a long way in earning the respect of your players. If Priest Holmes were still sidelined with his hip injury, do you think Vermeil would have been as blunt about rookie Larry Johnson?

6. Jaguars QB: Bright Future

Clipped From: Jaguars.com (Vic Ketchman)

Jaguars fans got a glimpse of the team's future. So, who's the quarterback of the future, David Garrard or Byron Leftwich?

That was the burning question following the Jaguars' 27-23 preseason win over the Miami Dolphins Friday night at Alltel Stadium. With Mark Brunell taking the night off, Garrard was the Jags' starting quarterback and led the team on an impressive touchdown drive in the final minute of the first half.

But the real dramatics belonged to Leftwich, the Jags' first-round draft choice, who ended a 19-day holdout by signing a contract in the wee hours of Wednesday morning. Leftwich had only two days of limited preparation, but entered the game in the fourth quarter with the Jaguars trailing 23-20 and, in his second offensive series, displayed a command of the Jaguars offense that left coach Jack Del Rio in awe.

"He didn't disappoint; that's for sure. He was on top of the offense to a point that was scary. He definitely spent time in his playbook while he was holding out," Del Rio said.

Leftwich completed seven of 10 passes for 84 yards and a game-winning, 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Donald Hayes. Leftwich's first professional appearance resulted in a 128.8 passer rating. Most importantly, he energized those among the crowd of 49,751 who stayed to get a glimpse of the Jags' new star.

Quite a performance from Leftwich, considering that he's been with the team for less than a week. With Mark Brunell still in town, Leftwich and Garrard will be left to learn more in practice and from the sideline than during actual games, but if they keep this up they will certainly earn an opportunity down the line. A fourth round pick last year, Garrard's best shot may have to come with another team at some point, but he's signed though the 2005 season and will likely battle with Leftwich for playing time until then. Although Garrard was a higher draft pick than Kelly Holcomb (an undrafted free agent in 95), this has the makings of a similar situation to what Cleveland is currently experiencing.

7. Minnesota Vikings Huddle Up

Clipped From: Pioneer Press (Bill Williamson)

The Vikings used the no-huddle offense as a crutch last season. This year they want to make it a weapon.

They have practiced the fast-break approach throughout camp and will use it this year, though a lot less liberally than last year, when they began to rely on it, coach Mike Tice said.

Tice said the team will ideally use it for two or three series a game, but not every game. They might bring it out for tonight's exhibition at Kansas City.

During a midseason stretch last year, the Vikings used the no-huddle as their primary offensive set, mainly to help quarterback Daunte Culpepper, a no-huddle proponent.

"We used it too much last year," Tice said. "You (don't want to) overuse it. I think this year, because we have better pass blocking and Daunte seems more comfortable, we won't make it a huge staple. But it will be part of the offense. We have the weapons to make it work for us in a limited basis."

Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said the entire offense likes playing without a huddle - on occasion.

"It tires guys out," Linehan said. "By the end of the game, our receivers and linemen are beat. But to use it occasionally will really give us some nice options."

When not used in an attempt to conserve time, the no-huddle offense is an element of surprise that takes advantage of defensive confusion and possible mismatches. Unless it's used too often, which is what happened with the Vikings last year. By picking and choosing their spots, Minnesota will once again have an advantage and, with a quarterback who feels comfortable in the hurry-up system, should excel. I'd venture to guess that when we see a tired or gimpy cornerback covering Randy Moss, we'll get a big dose of the no-huddle offense.

8. QB Quincy Carter (DAL) Takes Command

Clipped From: ESPN.com

A 96-yard touchdown drive, followed by another touchdown 14 seconds later. A great catch on a 60-yard touchdown pass. And an 83-yard punt return for a touchdown.

So, Bill Parcells, what stuck out most about your first game coaching the Dallas Cowboys in Texas Stadium?

The mistakes, of course.

"It's just a start, something to build on, a little encouraging for me," Parcells said following a 34-6 victory over the Houston Texans on Friday night. "But I want a smart team and a smart team doesn't get eight penalties and turn the ball over twice. A dumb team does that. And dumb players are offsides three times in a row in the second half."

Quincy Carter did his best to tighten the battle for starting quarterback, recovering from a slow start to go 6-for-6 for 90 yards on the long drive and hitting Antonio Bryant on a 30-yard touchdown pass immediately after Dallas (1-1) recovered the ensuing kickoff.

With co-frontrunner Chad Hutchinson watching from the sideline, Carter went 10-of-17 for 141 yards and left with a 17-3 halftime lead.

"This was an opportunity for Quincy and he took advantage of it," (Jerry) Jones said.

A new season brings new hope for Quincy Carter, who's started 15 games over his first two seasons with unspectacular results, posting 12 touchdowns, 15 interceptions, and a 6-9 record. With superior athletic ability, Carter brings an element to the Cowboys offense that is missing with Chad Hutchinson on the field. The next step is for him to build on Friday nights performance, which has been the problem during his career to this point. Currently, we've got the Dallas passing game projected with 2945 yards, 16 TDs and 20 interceptions, making whoever starts a marginal fantasy performer at best.

9. WR Ahmad Merritt (CHI) Sparkling

Clipped From: Chicagobears.com (Larry Mayer)

Don't pencil promising rookies Bobby Wade and Justin Gage into the fourth and fifth receiver spots behind Marty Booker, Dez White and David Terrell just yet.

The two fifth-round draft picks enter tonight's preseason game against the Denver Broncos in Champaign (7 p.m. CT, NBC) trailing third-year pro Ahmad Merritt on the depth chart.

"Ahmad has stepped up," said receivers coach Todd Haley. "He's made plays in practice, he's made plays in games. He's been a consistent player. Special teams aside-that will play a big factor in it-but what he's done on the field in practice at receiver, he's right in that first group."

As he has done throughout training camp, Merritt sparkled in the Bears' final practice in Bourbonnais Friday morning. He dove headlong and caught one pass while parallel to the ground, then later out-leaped cornerback Roosevelt Williams for a jump ball in the end zone.

In last Saturday's 20-18 preseason-opening win over Indianapolis, Merritt scored the Bears' only offensive touchdown on a 22-yard pass from Chris Chandler.

"Being at Wisconsin where they never threw the ball, Ahmad has come so far," Haley said. "I think he was a blocker there. Technique-wise he was so raw.

"He was always fast and always super-competitive. But he wasn't a great catcher. He's really improved his hands and his feel for the position. Understanding defenses is what's really pushing him ahead right now."

We've got the Bears passing game projected with 3182 yards, 17 TDs and 17 interceptions, barely enough to satisfy the trio of Booker, Terrel and White. As the 4-6 receivers in Chicago, Merritt and the rookie duo will be lucky to combine for 20 catches and a touchdown or two. Good news nonetheless for a young receiver who's making strides in training camp. The more playing time that he receives, the more chances that he has to impress, opening doors down the road. (and make sure to understand that was the Bears' coach saying "step up", not me�)

10. S Matt Stevens (HOU): No Surgery Required

Clipped From: Houstonchronicle.com

A second opinion on Matt Stevens' right knee revealed no further damage, and the starting free safety won't require surgery.

The Texans sent results of a preliminary MRI to sports medicine specialist Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala. Andrews' evaluation, which came back Friday, revealed nothing different from the original diagnosis, and Stevens is listed as day-to-day with soreness in the back of his knee.

Stevens likely will rest the knee during the early part of next week before a determination is made when he can resume workouts.

Very good news for Stevens, although we'll have to see him back on the field before getting too excited. A big hitter with limited coverage skills, Stevens has the potential to produce very nice tackle numbers from his starting free safety spot. We saw a glimpse of that last year with his 84 tackle campaign, including 3 games with 8 or more. Without offering much in the way of sacks and interceptions, his fantasy value is limited tackle stats alone, making him a marginal DB prospect at best. We've got him projected as the #96 defensive back with 85 tackles and 1 pick.

11. DT Lional Dalton (DEN) on the Block

Clipped From: Rocky Mountain News (Lynn DeBruin)

Lional "Jelly" Dalton thought he was on a roll after losing 36 pounds this off-season.

He was, as the Denver Broncos decided to roll him right out the door.

The man brought in 18 months ago to add beef to the Broncos' defensive front officially went on the trading block Thursday.

If Dalton can't be traded, he expects to be released.

"It (hurts) right now," Dalton said of the decision. "But I'm still young, I'll have another opportunity."

With prized free-agent acquisition Daryl Gardener out after undergoing wrist surgery, Dalton had been thrust back into the starting lineup at defensive tackle. But the Broncos recently demoted him in favor of second-year pro Monsanto Pope.

And with fourth-round pick Nick Eason and former University of Colorado standout Darius Holland playing well and defensive end Trevor Pryce also capable of playing inside, the Broncos decided it didn't make sense to pay Dalton $1.6 million this year.

"He's done a lot of what we asked of him. He shed the weight, was moving well," general manager Ted Sundquist said of Dalton, who received a $3 million signing bonus as part of a seven-year, $22 million deal in February 2002. "But in the end, when you've got two players who are close, you go with the cheaper, younger guys."

In 16 games last year (13 starts), Lional Dalton picked up 29 tackles and one sack. His dedication to improvement will have him land on another team, but he has no fantasy value. This is just another case of a player becoming a victim of his contract, too expensive for his lack of production.

12. WR Rod Gardner (WAS): More Receptions in 03?

Clipped From: Redskins.com (Casey Husband)

Last year, Rod Gardner joined the ranks of some of the great Redskin wide receivers when he reached 1,000 receiving yards for the season. The former first-round draft pick, selected 15th overall in 2001, now has his name alongside the likes of Bobby Mitchell, Charley Taylor, Art Monk, Gary Clark and Henry Ellard.

"There were a lot of expectations on me last year and that actually helped me out," Gardner said. "I've always loved pressure. It helps you set a goal for yourself so that you can rise above the expectations."

Added quarterback Patrick Ramsey: "Rod has made some great catches for me. He makes my job easier. He knows the offense really well, so I have confidence in him that he'll be there and make the catch when I throw his way."

This year, Gardner and free agent acquisition Laveranues Coles headline a young corps of wide receivers. They spent the offseason working hard and growing together into a solid unit.

"As receivers, we go out there with an aggressive attitude," Gardner said. "We want to constantly put pressure on the defense. That's what this offense is all about."

Gardner's 2002 stats included 71 receptions, 1006 receiving yards and eight touchdown catches. With the addition of Coles, he may be in for even bigger numbers. Coles has the knack for stretching defenses, which means that Gardner could get the bulk of the underneath work-and more catches than his 71 a year ago.

It's been well documented that both Gardner and Coles are from Jacksonville, Florida, and that they both played on rival high school teams. On playing and reuniting with Coles, Gardner said: "We go back to about sixth or seventh grade. I've know Laveranues and I've always followed his career."

"We never talked about playing together in the NFL," he added. "We never thought it would happen, but it's a blessing that it did. Right now, we just want to help each other get better, put points on the board and help our team win."

We agree that Gardner's receptions and yardage will both go up and we've ranked him at #22 with 79-1074-7. We also believe that Washington's passing game, and Patrick Ramsey, will support two 1000 yard receivers with Coles checking in at #14 (83-1133-7).

13. DE Hugh Douglas (JAC) Struggling

Clipped From: Jacksonville Times-Union (Bart Hubbuch)

Jaguars DE Hugh Douglas, who admitted he "stunk up the joint" in last week's preseason opener, wasn't any more successful last night.

Despite playing much of the first half and matching up against a rookie third-round pick, Douglas was credited with no tackles, assists or quarterback pressures.

Douglas, a former Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro who received a $6 million signing bonus from the Jaguars in March, revealed this week that he isn't in good physical condition. Douglas then left practice early Wednesday because of heat problems.

Douglas followed that by posing no problems for Dolphins rookie OT Wade Smith, who was starting in place of the injured Mark Dixon. Smith knocked Douglas' helmet off on the game's first play, then nearly did the same thing on the next snap.

When the Jaguars signed Hugh Douglas over the offseason, there were questions as to how much gas the soon-to-be 32 year old had left in the tank. Optimists pointed to the fact that he's kept himself in top shape, helping him to maintain his great pass rushing skills while limiting the possibility that he'd succumb to injuries. That makes this report of his less than desirable conditioning even more of a concern. With three year averages of 52 tackles and 12.5 sacks, you'd like to think that Jacksonville got a deal in his $6 million signing bonus, but it's looking like the Eagles were smart in their choice not to give him a long term contract. OK, enough bad news. It's only been 2 preseason games and we still expect him to match his averages and end up as a top 15 defensive lineman...for now. Another bad game, followed by negative practice reports, will have him dropping down the charts.

14. RB Troy Hambrick (DAL) Feels a Nudge...and Responds

Clipped From: Star-Telegram (Jennifer Floyd)

Cowboys running back Troy Hambrick did not gain an inch on his biggest play Friday. What he did was pick up blitzing Houston linebacker Jamie Sharper.

The blitz pick-up gave Cowboys quarterback Quincy Carter an extra second or two.

The extra time allowed Carter to find Cowboys wide receiver Antonio Bryant downfield.

The pass was underthrown, but Bryant came back for it. Touchdown.

All eyes were on Hambrick to see how he would respond to Parcells' latest challenge of his would-be featured back. The verdict was not too bad.

Hambrick finished with eight carries for 38 yards and an 1-yard touchdown. He also had two runs for negative or no yards. He certainly had to be feeling a little nudge from behind after the Cowboys brought running back Adrian Murrell back from retirement a couple of days ago, just to see what he could do.

It's good to finally see some positive news regarding Troy Hambrick. His development as an all-around running back, and production to match, will go a long way in determining whether he's worthy of a top 25 RB selection. We currently have him at #26, breaking 1250 yards with 6 touchdowns, but a few more performances like Friday nights could solidify his role as a soft # 2 RB, very strong # 3.

15. FB Donnel Thompson (IND) Tears ACL

Clipped From: Associated Press

Indianapolis Colts fullback Donnel Thompson will miss this season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

"He's one of our leaders on special teams, a guy who practices hard," coach Tony Dungy said Saturday. "Someone else will have to step up."

Thompson was injured Friday night while covering a punt early in the second quarter of Indianapolis' 21-7 preseason win over Seattle.

"I guess I was on someone's back hip and I tried to stop on his leg," Thompson said. "I kept on going."

Thompson was helped off the field by two trainers then was carted into the locker room. He had an MRI on Saturday morning and showed up in the locker room on crutches.

Thompson is in his third year with the Colts after spending his rookie season with Pittsburgh. He's played primarily on special teams and occasionally at linebacker before the Colts moved him to fullback in training camp.

Although this has no fantasy impact, it's always unfortunate to see a player suffer a season ending injury. A three year vet who's only 25 years old, hopefully he'll be able to resume his career once he's recovered.

16. WR Pinkston's Extension: Salt in Staley's Wound

Clipped From: Philadelphia Inquirer (Bob Brookover)

This completion made Todd Pinkston a wealthy man and perhaps hardened running back Duce Staley in his standoff against his employer.

The Eagles finalized negotiations on a contract extension with their No. 1 wide receiver yesterday when the sides reached agreement on a six-year deal that includes a signing bonus of slightly less than $4 million.

News of Pinkston's extension was probably another sharp cut for Staley, whose holdout reached 19 days yesterday. Staley, who is being fined $5,000 for each day he is absent from the team, will see his fine total reach $100,000 when he misses tonight's game against the Steelers.

In the last calendar year, Staley has watched the Eagles give contract extensions to quarterback Donovan McNabb (12 years), safety Brian Dawkins (seven years), and now Pinkston (five years). He also has seen the team give hefty raises to defensive coordinator Jim Johnson and offensive coordinator Brad Childress, both of whom drew interest as potential head coaches by San Francisco after last season.

It's impossible to argue against any of those moves, but it has no doubt left Staley, the Eagles' offensive MVP last season, wondering why the team doesn't want to negotiate an extension with him. All the Eagles want from Staley is for him to honor his $2.2 million contract for this season.

The week following tonight's game against the Steelers should be a fascinating one. Whether the Eagles want to admit it or not, Staley's absence has been a distraction.

Reporters are paid to ask questions, and players and coaches try to answer them the best they can.

Staley's absence remains a valid question without an answer.

The subject is a sore spot with coach Andy Reid, who would prefer the path of least interruption as he prepares the Eagles for the regular season.

The Staley controversy is also at least part of the reason classy cornerback and longtime team spokesman Troy Vincent is talking only about subjects related to himself these days.

Vincent, who counts winning the Super Bowl as the only goal left on his career checklist, has been caught in the middle of the dispute between Staley and the Eagles. He has told Staley to come to camp, and he has said publicly that the Eagles can't win the Super Bowl without the disgruntled running back. Both things were said in the interest of winning.

The Staley issue clearly needs to be resolved, but it appears as if that can only happen in one of two ways: Either Staley reports to training camp or the Eagles trade him.

It has to be frustrating for Staley to sit back and watch the Eagles hand out money while they refuse to reward a player who picked up 1500 yards and 8 touchdowns in helping the Eagles to the NFC Championship game. Having said that, the writing has been on the wall that Staley is not head coach Andy Reid's first selection for running back and the Eagles have shown that they will not pay for players that they feel are easily replaceable. The Eagles have struggled to run the ball during the preseason, which gives Staley leverage, but each day of camp that he misses makes trading him a more likely scenario.

17. TE Frank Wycheck (TEN) Suffers Concussion

Clipped From: Associated Press

Tennessee tight end Frank Wycheck sustained a concussion on the first play from scrimmage during the Titans' preseason game with Buffalo on Saturday night.

Wycheck had just caught a pass from Steve McNair and was being tackled by Buffalo linebacker London Fletcher when the tight end was hit in the head by linebacker Jeff Posey's knee. Wycheck lay on the ground for several minutes after being tackled.

Trainers brought out a backboard to take him off the field. But Wycheck was helped to his feet and got into the trainers' cart on his own before being taken off the field.

The Titans said he was under observation in the team's locker room.

From 96-01, Wycheck averaged 64 receptions and 663 yards, leaving him in the upper echelon of pass receiving tight ends. Those numbers dropped to 40 and 346 last year, his lowest output since 1994. Even before the concussion, the 31 year old Wycheck had marginal fantast value as our 18th ranked tight end. Now, leave him alone until we find out the impact this will have on his future.

18. DT Brandon Noble (WAS) Suffers Knee Injury

Clipped From: Associated Press

The Redskins suffered a major blow when starting defensive tackle Brandon Noble sprained his left knee in the first quarter.

"It looks like he's going to be out quite a while," coach Steve Spurrier said. "He could be out half the year, maybe more."

The Redskins have struggled to put together a starting defensive line since Dan Wilkinson was cut on the second day of training camp after he declined to accept a pay cut. Jermaine Haley started next to Noble on Saturday, and Peppi Zellner took over when Noble went down. James Cannida was signed last week, and Denver's Lionel Dalton is being shopped for a possible trade.

Brandon Noble was signed over the offseason and expected to replace Daryl Gardener. While he's not the fantasy factor that Gardener is (31 tackles and zero sacks last year in Dallas), he is a stout run stuffer. A definite blow to the Redskins rush defense, they will almost certainly have to bring in a free-agent. It looks like we may have found a home for Lional Dalton.

That'll do it for today, Folks. We'll see you tomorrow with the update and hopefully won't have as many injuries to report.

Joe