Lions offense familiar to Stafford
Matthew Stafford, QB DET
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that his new team's offense is familiar to him, and that's helped him get acclimated to his new playbook. "Coming from Georgia, we do a lot of the same concepts with [offensive coordinator Scott] Linehan that we did there," Stafford said. "It's obviously called something completely different and you may look for a different look for certain coverages, but a lot of the concepts are similar, so it's been a pretty easy transition for me so far."
Analysis: Obviously, this is good news since Stafford will try to follow in the footsteps of Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco and start 16 games in his rookie season. He's got a cannon for an arm and has reportedly progressed in every other area of his game since getting drafted. Playing his home game indoors, and playing with big targets like WR Calvin Johnson and rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew make him a potential surprise in 2009. Assuming he beats out Daunte Culpepper for the starting job, and he might based on his contract alone, Stafford could rate as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB since whoever is at the controls of the Lions offense has the luxury of throwing deep to Johnson & Co. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal leagues, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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  Crabtree: I'm ready for camp
Michael Crabtree, WR SF
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., 49ers rookie WR Michael Crabtree told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that the foot he had a stress fracture in back in February won't keep him from being ready for the start of training camp. "The foot is great," Crabtree said when asked how his offseason has been. "I'm ready. I'm running and everything."
Analysis: Crabtree added that he hasn't yet practiced with the 49ers' quarterbacks but likes how they've been competing thus far. Crabtree has been making strides in his rehab since the draft, including running in individual drills with the coaching staff, so the stress fracture might not be a huge issue for him by the time the season starts. Crabtree has immense talent and should eventually add a great dimension to the 49ers' passing game. We love the fit long-term, but can't help but be cautious for 2009 simply because he's a rookie receiver coming off an injury, and those players tend to struggle in their first NFL season. The cagey Crabtree should be more beneficial in PPR leagues than standard formats, but still fall in as a middle- to late-round pick this summer as a good reserve Fantasy option. He's got a shot at 40 catches and five touchdowns. He's worth a middle-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues as well as a Top-5 pick in rookie-only drafts.
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Greene relishes grinder role
Shonn Greene, RB NYJ
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Jets rookie RB Shonn Greene told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that the moniker "fourth-quarter back" that his coaches have labeled him is appropriate. Built with a huge upper body, Greene is looking forward to making a sizable impact for a second-day draft choice. "I think it plays well into how I play the game of football, very tough, down-and-dirty and grind time, fourth quarter time," Greene said. "I like it a lot. I think that's what football is all about, getting down in the trenches between the tackles. But whatever else they need for me to do I'm willing to do."
Analysis: In 2009, we see Greene as a complementary back behind Thomas Jones and Leon Washington. But in time, we could easily see the Jets going with Greene and Washington as a two-headed running back machine with Greene working the goal line. That's why we consider the bulky Greene to be worth a late-round pick in seasonal drafts, maybe as an insurance policy for those owners who add Jones, but also as a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and an early-round choice in rookie-only drafts.
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Brown's rookie role: Scatback
Andre Brown, RB NYG
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Giants rookie RB Andre Brown told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that his new team likes him for his versatility, and that he'll be utilized for it. "I'm a scatback compared to Brandon Jacobs, so that's what they're trying to get me into because I can catch the ball real well out of the backfield," Brown said when asked about his role. "Otherwise they're just telling me to come in there and work hard, and I'm just going in trying to do what I can do to help the Giants win another Super Bowl."
Analysis: Brown says he's received support from backfield mates Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw, who Brown said is even smaller than him and has opened eyes in camp. While we don't expect Brown to see a lot of work in camp, we're impressed with his abilities and demeanor and do expect him to eventually land a role in the Giants' offense. Remember, he plays with Jacobs, who regularly gets hurt and just got paid big this offseason, so Brown could always be a candidate to break out of nowhere and get some reps. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper drafts this summer.
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Robiskie lining up 'all over'
Brian Robiskie, WR CLE
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Browns rookie WR Brian Robiskie told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that the coaches have had him line up in multiple spots on the field in an effort to have him able to play all the different receiving spots, a trend we've seen with other Browns rookies. "[Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll] has done that with a lot of guys. We're out there trying to learn all the spots and trying to get an understanding of what he's trying to do so when we go out there and we're trying to execute a play, we can better understand what the concept is," Robiskie said.
Analysis: Robiskie said it's helped him that he grew up in an NFL family -- his father is former running back and current Falcons coach Terry Robiskie -- and that it's been stressed to him by Coach Daboll that he keeps learning all the facets of the offense. Still, he's focused on doing his part to help the Browns win, even going as far as to say that he'd be fine with being on the bench if that's what they ask of him (we highly doubt that). Robiskie is a refined talent who many considered to be the most NFL-ready receiver in April's draft. He could make a sizable impact for the Browns as a rookie while developing into a quality receiver. We've even previously reported that Robiskie is on the inside track to start. He should be serviceable for Fantasy and shouldn't be looked at as your typical rookie wideout. Robiskie is worth drafting with a late-round pick in standard Fantasy leagues and is definitely worth a late-round pick in keeper leagues and should be added with a Top-20 pick in rookie-only drafts.
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Report: Marshall trade possible
Brandon Marshall, WR DEN
News: Posting on his Twitter page, NFL reporter Adam Schefter believes that while the Broncos aren't actively shopping disgruntled WR Brandon Marshall, they would take calls for him. Schefter, who has covered the Broncos for a long time, thinks the club would trade Marshall for a first-round pick. Marshall is unhappy with the club after misdiagnosing a hip injury that required surgery this offseason and for not offering him a contract extension. He has asked for a trade out of town.
Analysis: Marshall also has some off-field problems with the law that might result in a suspension, though that hasn't been determined yet. We're all going to have to wait and see how this situation plays out, but Marshall is in danger of slipping. Assuming that he does stay, is healthy and in the flow of an offense like the one Denver will run in 2009, Marshall is a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. But considering his hip and his unwillingness to cooperate, owners should view him as a No. 2-type worth a pick around Round 4. We'll keep you posted on the latest with him.
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Massaquoi 'floating' around
Mohamed Massaquoi, WR CLE
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Browns rookie WR Mohamed Massaquoi told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that the coaches have had him "floating around" the field in an effort to have him able to play all over, a trend we've seen with other Browns rookies. "[Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll] has got me all over, trying to learn as much as I can," the former Georgia Bulldog said. "They say the more you know, the more valuable you are, so I'm trying to do my little part by making sure I'm in shape, working hard and trying to be mentally prepared."
Analysis: Massaquoi added that the offense is different than the one he ran at Georgia, so it's taking a little time to get used to. We see Massaquoi as an occasional contributor for the Browns as a deep-threat receiver, which is certainly how he made hay as Matthew Stafford's best target in school. He is definitely worth a late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and should be added in rookie formats with a mid-round selection.
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Browns' Davis seeing lots of work
James Davis, RB CLE
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Browns rookie RB James Davis told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that the coaches have had him line up in multiple spots on the field in an effort to have him able to play all over, a trend we've seen with other Browns rookies. "[Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll] has got me doing a lot of things, including lining up as a receiver, being in the backfield and running the ball," Davis said. "Right now, I think I just have to be prepared as best I can for the next level."
Analysis: We loved Davis as a running back coming out of Clemson and were glad to see him wind up in Cleveland. He also feels he's in the perfect situation as there's not a lot of talent separating him from some playing time. Davis is expected to be the backup to Jamal Lewis in an offense that might utilize two rushers (the other being Jerome Harrison). We like Davis as a late-round flier in the deepest of seasonal leagues, a late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and a mid-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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Moreno wants chance to start
Knowshon Moreno, RB DEN
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Broncos rookie RB Knowshon Moreno told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that he wants to start but would also be content just playing his role. Moreno is competing with LaMont Jordan and Correll Buckhalter for the starting job. "I think any player is going to be competitive that wants to be out there," Moreno said. "I'm going to compete. I'm going to compete with everyone." Moreno said learning the offense has been tough, which is no surprise since new coach Josh McDaniels has a tough system. "Any new offense is complicated," Moreno said. "That's what comes with the territory. I think I'm catching on pretty well, but there's still a lot to learn." He's also had to get used to the NFL, which is a tough adjustment for any rookie coming out of college. "It's tough, definitely tough," Moreno said. "It's something new. You have to get adjusted to your new surroundings, your new community and your new teammates and coaches. It takes time to get adjusted to those things. Once you do, you feel right at home."
Analysis: We hope Moreno can get adjusted to the NFL right away in training camp and earn a starting spot because he has the talent to succeed as a rookie. We like Moreno as a No. 3 Fantasy RB worth a mid-round pick. He's likely the second or third best rookie RB this year behind Beanie Wells and Donald Brown, and Moreno looked small in person despite being listed at 5-foot-11, 217 pounds. Still, Moreno will get the chance to have plenty of touches, and playing in a good offense and a weak division should help him make plays. But Moreno knows he has a long way to go to be considered one of the top RB in Denver history. "I haven't even taken an NFL snap yet," Moreno said. "It's too early to think about these things."
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Wells wants to start for Cards
Beanie Wells, RB ARI
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Cardinals rookie RB Beanie Wells told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that even though he wasn't at most of the OTA sessions this offseason because classes at Ohio State didn't end until mid-June, he still feels ready to step in and compete for the starting job with Tim Hightower once training camp starts. "I made sure that I stayed up with the players and the coaches so when I went there I wasn't behind in learning the plays," Wells said. "I'm pretty up to speed on everything." Wells said his goal is to be the starter this year. "That's definitely my plan from Day 1 is to get in there and learn as much as I can and eventually take over that starting job and become very productive," he said. Wells also realizes for him to play every down with the Cardinals, who are a passing team, he has to improve as a receiver. "It's going to be a big part of playing with the Cardinals since we throw the ball a lot," Wells said. "It's something I feel that I can do. I just didn't do it a lot in college, but I'm excited about it."
Analysis: Wells is saying all the right things, and the Cardinals feel he can play right away, which is why they released Edgerrin James this offseason. We like Wells as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB, and he's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues. He will likely share carries with Hightower, but Wells has an opportunity to be the best rookie RB this year. Let some owners jump on Knowshon Moreno or Donald Brown as the top rookie RB, but take Wells on your team and rest assured he should be ready to contribute right away.
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Davie lands in Carolina
Andrew Davie, TE CAR
News: The Carolina Panthers are taking another chance with a former minor league baseball player. The franchise that once drafted and started quarterback Chris Weinke claimed rookie tight end Andrew Davie off waivers from the New York Jets on Thursday. The 26-year-old spent four seasons in the St. Louis Cardinals farm system before switching to football. The 6-foot-4, 275-pound Davie caught 24 passes for 199 yards and six touchdowns in three season at Arkansas. He went undrafted in April and signed with the Jets.
Analysis: Davie will provide depth in training camp behind starting tight end Jeff King and backups Dante Rosario and Gary Barnidge. Keep him off of Fantasy rosters.
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Coffee to 'make ground tremble'
Glen Coffee, RB SF
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., 49ers rookie RB Glen Coffee told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that he will get carries this season along with veteran Frank Gore. Coffee said his running style differs from Gore, which will give him the opportunity to take away some touches. "They want to run the ball first," Coffee said. "That's the approach they want to have. Frank is a great running back that I can learn from. He's so smooth when he runs, and when I run I try to make the ground tremble. To be able to incorporate his running style into mine, I love learning from him. Whatever role I fall into, I determine that. However good I do determines my role on the field. Right now I'm just trying to soak up everything and go out there and try to do what I have to do to help the team win."
Analysis: Coffee is a definite handcuff option for Gore, and if you're looking for good value with a late-round pick take Coffee in all formats. Remember, the 49ers struggled in recent years with short-yardage situations, so Coffee could fill that role and take away some touchdowns. We still value Gore as a No. 1 Fantasy RB, but Coffee could be a good sleeper if he comes in and is able to "make the ground tremble."
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Turner thinks Sanchez will thrive
Mark Sanchez, QB NYJ
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Dolphins rookie WR Patrick Turner told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that Jets QB Mark Sanchez should do well in the NFL. Sanchez was Turner's QB in college at Southern California. "He's going to work hard," Turner said. "Like any quarterback, he may have some struggles his first year, but ultimately he's going to be one of the top quarterbacks. He has it all." Sanchez, who is competing with Kellen Clemens for the starting job in New York, said his offseason has gone well, and he's looking forward to the QB battle with Clemens. "Everything is going really well," Sanchez said. "Kellen's the best, and he's been fun to work with with. He's very accommodating. It's going to be a fierce competition."
Analysis: Sanchez will have growing pains as he continues to learn the offense and works with the team. We'll find out who wins the competition with Clemens, but Sanchez has more Fantasy value this year and obviously in the future. Sanchez should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy QB with upside coming into the year. If he beats out Clemens as expected, his value could rise, but draft him with a late-round pick in deep seasonal leagues. He's worth a middle-round pick in keeper leagues as well as a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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Coffman: Palmer looks great
Carson Palmer, QB CIN
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Bengals rookie TE Chase Coffman told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that QB Carson Palmer has looked good throwing the ball this offseason after dealing with last year's elbow injury. "He's been throwing some great passes and looks good," Coffman said.
Analysis: All the reports from Cincinnati said Palmer has looked good this offseason, but it's good to hear a first-hand account. We like Palmer to bounce back as a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season, but you should draft him as a No. 2 option with a mid-round pick. With Chad Ochocinco committed to a rebound year and with Laveranues Coles replacing T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Palmer should be fine. And if Coffman steps in and plays well as a rookie, Palmer could shine.
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Coffman will be ready for camp
Chase Coffman, TE CIN
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Bengals rookie TE Chase Coffman told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that his injured foot is getting better and he should be ready for training camp. Coffman recently returned for the final minicamp but wasn't at full strength. "It's still not quite 100 percent, but I should be 100 percent (for training camp)," Coffman said. "I can't wait. It was great to get out there for the mandatory minicamp and do some stuff and get to practice and learn the plays a little more."
Analysis: Coffman has the opportunity to play right away. He will compete with Ben Utecht for the starting spot, but we like Coffman to win the job based on his college career at Missouri. Take Coffman as a No. 2 TE in deep seasonal leagues, and he's worth a mid-round pick in rookie-only formats. As long as his foot is 100 percent, he has the chance to make plays with the Bengals.
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Collie wants No. 3 job
Austin Collie, WR IND
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Colts rookie WR Austin Collie told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that he's looking forward to winning the No. 3 job behind Reggie Wayne and Anthony Gonzalez, ahead of Roy Hall and Pierre Garcon. "There's a lot of competition we have on the team right now," Collie said. "Your goal is to play. Your goal is to get on the field and contribute and help the team in any way. That is my goal. But setting goals within goals, the tiny goals that are going to help me get there are just learning the playbook, getting to know the system, getting on the same page as Peyton (Manning). I have to worry about those things first whether I worry about if I'm going to start or not. The guys I'm competing with have been here and already know the system. They can start thinking about those things right now. My only preoccupation right now is focusing on the playbook and knowing the system and making sure I'm ready for training camp. If I get the No. 3 spot then that's fantastic. That's what I'm shooting for."
Analysis: We like Collie as a sleeper if he wins the job. But even if he's No. 4 behind Hall, he's still a good pick in deep seasonal formats. In rookie-only drafts, consider Collie with a mid-round selection. A lot will be determined in training camp, so keep an eye on how Collie does.
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