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UFL coverage sponsored by ProFootballinsight’s 2010 Fantasy Football Segment.  Click the above photo to be re-directed to all of your Fantasy Football needs.

JACKSONVILLE, FL – Monday, July 26 – The United Football League announced today its 10-week, 20-game 2010 regular season broadcast schedule and kickoff times.

Returning broadcasters VERSUS and HDNet are joined in 2010 by the New England Sports Network (NESN), which will broadcast two of the Hartford Colonials’ home games during the upcoming fall season.  Games will also be streamed live on www.UFL-Football.com.

“We continue to make progress in bringing our games to a wider television audience through three established and innovative broadcaster partners,” said UFL Commissioner Michael Huyghue.  “VERSUS and HDNet were pioneers in introducing our quality product to the nation’s sports fans in 2009 and we are delighted to partner with them again and to also welcome another strong broadcasting ally in NESN.”

VERSUS will feature eight regular season UFL games on Saturdays and one Thursday evening, beginning with the Sacramento Mountain Lions’ first home game against the Florida Tuskers at Hornet Stadium in Week 2 on Saturday, September 25 at 8pm PST / 11pm EST.  VERSUS will also broadcast the UFL Championship Game on the Thanksgiving holiday Friday, November 26 at 3pm between the top two teams in the final regular season standings at a venue to be determined.

“We look forward to the second year of the UFL on VERSUS,” said Jeff Goldberg, Vice President of Programming for the network.  “Through our telecasts, these five teams will have national exposure on the fastest growing sports cable network in the country.”

HDNet, whose Chairman Mark Cuban became a UFL investor in 2010, will broadcast ten regular season games, including the 2009 UFL Championship Game rematch between the Las Vegas Locos and Florida Tuskers at Sam Boyd Stadium on Saturday, September 18 at 8pm PST / 11pm EST.  The much-anticipated clash moves back 24 hours from the original UFL schedule.

“The game is fun, it’s exciting and the talent level is off the charts and we want to be a part of it,” said HDNet Chairman Mark Cuban.  “We believe last year was just the beginning and the best is yet to come from the UFL.  We are going to broadcast games in the highest quality nationwide and our priority is to grow viewership, grow the fan base and really help the UFL succeed.”

The HDNet cameras will also televise the debut of the expansion franchise Omaha Nighthawks at Rosenblatt Stadium against the Hartford Colonials at 7pm on Friday, September 24 at 7pm CST / 8pm EST.

HDNet is the independent network with unique and thought provoking content that is delivered in true high definition and is available on AT&T, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, Dish Network, Insight, and Verizon FiOs.

The UFL 2010 season-opening game will now be played in Hartford, CT, when the New England Sports Network (NESN) cameras capture the hometown Colonials at home to the Sacramento Mountain Lions at 2.30pm EST on Saturday, September 18.

NESN is delivered to more than four million homes throughout the six-state New England region and nationally via DirecTV and Dish Network.  The definitive home for New England sports programming; NESN has been the top rated regional sports network in the country for six consecutive years.

“We are excited for this opportunity to help showcase the UFL,” said Joel Feld, NESN’s executive vice president and executive producer.  “We feel that the UFL is a television property that offers us great upside and is poised to grow in the coming years once fans see the entertaining and competitive football action that the league offers.”

For season ticket information, fans may visit www.UFL-Football.com/tickets.

2010 United Football League Broadcast Schedule

Wk.   Date  Game                                     Kickoff    Kickoff     Network

Fri., Nov 26    Championship Game                tbc            3:00pm    VERSUS

About The United Football League:  The UFL provides high-quality professional football during a traditional fall season while embracing innovation and fan interaction.  The UFL serves its local communities with pride and dedication, and aims to provide every fan with an exciting and memorable game experience.  The inaugural 2009 champion Las Vegas Locos will battle the Florida Tuskers, Hartford Colonials, Omaha Nighthawks and Sacramento Mountain Lions for the William Hambrecht Trophy in 2010.  The UFL is led by Commissioner Michael Huyghue and is funded by a consortium of private investors.  For season tickets, more information and to interact with passionate football fans, please visit www.UFL-Football.com.

About VERSUS: VERSUS, the fastest growing sports cable network in the country, prides itself on super-serving passionate sports fans across all platforms (VERSUS.com, VERSUS on Demand and VERSUS HD).  Now in more than 75 million homes, the network is the cable television home of the National Hockey League (NHL), IZOD IndyCar Series, Tour de France, World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) and Professional Bull Riders (PBR).  VERSUS also airs NASCAR, NBA, UFC, college football and college basketball programming.  The network is home to the best outdoor programming on television and airs original programs not available anywhere else, including The Daily Line, Sports Soup and Sports Jobs with Junior Seau.  VERSUS, a wholly owned company of Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA, CMCSK), is distributed via cable systems and satellite operators throughout the United States.

About HDNet: HDNet is the independent network with unique and thought-provoking content that appeals to men of all ages and is delivered in true high definition. HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, original programming, including television’s only HD news feature programs “HDNet World Report,” and the Emmy Award winning “Dan Rather Reports,” featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts with its Friday night series, “HDNet Fights” and live games from the recently launched United Football League.  HDNet also delivers the world’s largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Paul McCartney, Mariah Carey, Green Day and more. HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. “NASA on HDNet” presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.  Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, Dish Network, Insight, and Verizon FiOs.  For more information on HDNet, please visit hd.net.

About NESN: NESN is owned by the Boston Red Sox and Boston Bruins and is delivered to over four million homes throughout the six-state New England region and nationally via DirecTV and Dish Network.  The definitive home for New England sports programming, NESN is the television home of the Red Sox and Bruins and is the top rated regional sports network in the country. The network and its popular website, NESN.com, produce award winning content including, NESN Daily a nightly sports news and discussion program, over 100 NESN University college sporting events annually and distinctive Original NESN Entertainment (ONE) productions.

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ProFootballinsight’s Kurt Fraschetti does it again.  Over the past few years, week in and week out Kurt Fraschetti’s Fantasy Football Sleepers and Waiver Wire Steals column attracted attention and a loyal following.  Kurt Fraschetti has taken that segment and rolled it out into Fantasy Draft format.

Year in and year out, many Fantasy Football Titles are won by the draft picks that are not expected to do much, or are considered gambles.  ProFootballinsight brings you details as to who to look out for, and more importantly, why!

2010 Fantasy Football Draft Day Sleepers and Steals

LeSean McCoy / Running Back- Philadelphia Eagles

If LeSean McCoy makes his way out of the 2nd round in your league, take him off of the draft board!  McCoy is my runaway favorite sleeper back this year.  Even though I have McCoy ranked as my #5 Fantasy Football Running Back, most people do not.

McCoy as a rookie gave the Eagles enough to feel more than comfortable with releasing All-Pro running back Brian Westbrook.  After seeing McCoy last year, he is clearly in the same league and chemical make-up as Westbrook was.  McCoy is a fast, shifty, hard runner who is equally as dangerous as a receiver out of the backfield.  McCoy only started 4 games last year and posted neary 1,000 yards gained from scrimmage.

LeSean also will benefit from the rest of the Eagles offensive firepower.  The Eagles offense on paper is a Top 5 fantasy football offense with all of the skill player position talent.  Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson have the ability to take it to the house every time they touch the ball.  Those two alone will stretch defenses, then factor in Brent Celek who will see a big jump in productivity this year with Kevin Kolb at QB, who played out of his mind in Donovan McNabb’s absence last year…  Oh yeah, don’t they still have that Michael Vick guy?

Editors Note:  After the recent shooting with Michael Vick’s name circulating, the Eagles are evaluating Vick’s status and potentially releasing him, which either way does not have bearing on McCoy’s value.

McCoy has an offensive blueprint for a Pro-Bowl season.

Mike Wallace / Wide Receiver- Pittsburgh Steelers

In 2009, Wallace quietly had an outstanding rookie season, so much so that his play made Santonio Holmes expendable.  Mike reeled in 39 catches for 756 yards and 6 TD’s.  Wallace also led the NFL as a rookie with his 19.4 yards per reception.

I would wait for Wallace since his first four to six weeks will not be as productive with the suspension of his starting QB, Ben Roethlisberger.  When Ben returns, Wallace’s numbers should go through the roof.

At the point where you are wondering who you should draft, an no, dont draft a kicker, lock Wallace up.  Wallace should not be your #1 receiver, but will play like a #1 later in the season.

Chad Henne / Quarterback- Miami Dolphins

In his 3rd season out of the University of Michigan, Henne has not exactly set the passing world on fire.  Henne finished his 2009 campaign with 2,878 yards passing in a run dominated offense, adding 12 TD’s to giving up 14 picks.

After the above you may be asking why or more importantly, how did Chad Henne end up on this list?  It is simple, the Dolphins brought in incredibly gifted Brandon Marshall in the off-season.  A player of Marshall’s caliber was not brought in to collect a large paycheck to play a decoy to an aging run game.

By himself, Marshall’s stats make any QB worth having on your roster.  With a balanced running game, Chad Henne can take a lot of defenses and Fantasy Owners by surprise.  If you don’t think that Marshall has that big of an impact, check out the career’s of Jay Cutler and Kyle Orton while Marshall was their favorite target!

Henne would be a great back-up, who you could start when your #1 QB is facing a Top 5 Defense or as a solid Bye week fill.  I would not build my team around Henne just yet, but keep in mind that Henne has only been a starter for one year, and his numbers can and will only improve.

Alex Smith / Quarterback- S.F. 49ers

The #1 pick of the 2005 NFL draft may finally pay dividends this year.  With the 49ers only bringing in career back up QB David Carr in the off-season, this will clearly be Smith’s offense to run this year.

Alex’s play last year gave him the blessing of Head Coach Mike Singletary in the off-season to proclaim Smith as his starter.  In only 1o starts last year, Smith posted 2,350 yards passing with 18 TD’s to only 12 picks.

Smith’s stats will improve again this year, and is surrounded by talent at the skill positions.  As a Fantasy Owner, you would be more than happy to have Frank Gore, Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree.  As the 49ers QB, Smith is happy to have them as well, and will take full advantage of their skills.

I look at Smith in the same light that I do Chad Henne.  You should not go into the season with either as your starter, but may take over that role on your team before the season ends!

Cleveland Browns Running  Backs

The Browns backfield has talent!  The question is, which one will Eric Mangini stick with.  Jerome Harrison looked like a monster last year as he dominated in his last three games;

Week 15 vs. Chiefs-   34 carries, 286 yards, 3 TD’s

Week 16 vs. Raiders- 39 carries, 148 yards, 1 TD

Week 17 vs. Jaguars- 33 carries, 127 yards, 1 TD

If the end of 2009 rolls over into 2010, Harrison will be a Top 5 Running Back.

Here lies the problem.  Harrison was on the Browns roster for the entire 2009 season, and he only had one other 100 yard game to show for it through the other 13 games played.

Mangini reminds me of his mentor, Bill Belichick, with his unpredictable use of his Running Backs.  Ever had Lawrence Maroney on your team?  If so, you know exactly what I am talking about.

The Browns added rookie Running Back Montario Hardesty from Tennesee, Peyton Hillis from Denver, and still have Chris Jennings and James Davis on their roster, who also showed flashes of brilliance in the 2009 pre-season games.  All of this and the rumors that Josh Cribbs and Seneca Wallace will be used in a modified Wildcat formation, will they have time to pass?  Or with Jake Delhomme at QB, do they even want to?

Clearly the talent is here, but who, if anyone will emerge as the go to back for the Browns.  Taking Harrison early is a big gamble, which could pay off largely, or burn the hell out of you.  I would not run out to take any of these backs early, but in deep leagues, most of this group is worthy of consideration, including Josh Cribbs.

Below are other related 2010 NFL Fantasy Football articles;

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Quarterbacks

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Running Backs

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers

2010 NFL Fantasy Football Kicker Advise

Stay in touch with ProFootballinsight.net by becoming a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant fantasy football updates.

Kurt Fraschetti / ProFootballinsight.net

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]]> http://www.profootballinsight.net/2010/07/2010-nfl-fantasy-football-draft-day-steals-and-sleepers/feed/ 1 http://www.profootballinsight.net/2010/06/2010-nfl-fantasy-football-top-10-wrs/ http://www.profootballinsight.net/2010/06/2010-nfl-fantasy-football-top-10-wrs/#comments Sun, 27 Jun 2010 19:24:38 +0000 Fraschetti http://www.profootballinsight.net/?p=638 ProFootballinsight examines the wide world of receivers. Who will take the title of the best fantasy football wide receiver? How did Kurt Warner’s retirement affect Larry Fitzgerald? Will Anquan Boldin crack the top 10 after leaving the Cardinals? ProFootballinsight answers all these questions and more.

Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin are no longer the dynamic duo.  Will Fitzgerald post his usual Top 3 numbers without Boldin to draw defenders away from Larry?  Will Boldin crack PFI’s Top 10?

2010 Fantasy Football Top 10 Wide Receivers

#10.  Steve Smith / Carolina Panthers- Unlike last year when the first quarter of the season, fantasy owners were wishing they had Steve Smith Giants, not the Panthers Steve Smith.  Even having to cope with Jake Delhomme’s Quarterback inadequacies last season in addition to adjusting to Matt Moore taking over the starting Quarterback job, Smith was still statistically a top 20 Fantasy Wide Receiver last year.  He finished 2009 with 982 yards receiving and 7 TD’s.

With Smith having a full off-season, mini-camp and pre-season to gel with whomever will start for the Panthers this season, and the fact that Smith has a ton of heart, I am confident that he will again be the number one Steve Smith.

#9.  Mike Sims-Walker / Jacksonville Jaguars-  In 2009, we saw to versions of Sims-Walker….  Fire and Ice.  Sims-Walker had games last year where he did not register a stat.  Mike then had games where he looked like the only player on the field.  Sims-Walker had to mature fast last season and will build upon his 869 yard, 7 touchdown 2009 campaign.  In order for coach Jack Del Rio to keep his job, his offense will have to improve from last season, and for that to happen, Sims-Walker will have to be a big contributor.  In the off-season, Sims-Walker has been working out with Larry Fitzgerald, which will only help Mike develop into a legitimate #1 Receiver.

#8.  DeSean Jackson / Philadelphia Eagles- D.J. is a potential touchdown threat every time he touches the ball.  It could be an end-around, wide receiver screen or a deep pass, all of which DeSean can take to the house.  The Eagles have an offense that appears to match the likes of the 2007 Patriots or any recent Saints team.  With that said, Jackson will only improve on his outstanding 2009 season where he totaled 1,156 yards on 62 receptions and 9 TD’s.  Jackson adds a bonus to leagues which give individual players credit for special teams as well.

#7.  Reggie Wayne / Indianapolis Colts- I do not see Wayne topping is 2009 totals of 100 receptions, 1,264 yards and 10 TD’s, but even posting totals with a 25 percent reduction still makes him a Top 10 wide receiver.  Wayne still has Peyton Manning at the quarterback position, and Reggie has eclipsed 1,000 yards for six straight seasons, and there is no reason to doubt his ability to make it seven.

#6.  Roddy White / Atlanta Falcons-  White and his QB Matt Ryan only get better and better as they age together in their NFL careers.  Defenses knew that White was Ryan’s favorite target, which did not stop Roddy from grabbing 85 balls for 1,153 yards and 11 TD’s.  The Falcons offense will be stronger than their 2009 version, and White’s numbers will only get better.  In Roddy’s last three seasons, he has never had less than 83 receptions and 1,100 yards.  Barring injury, I can say with confidence White will again top these numbers.

#5.  Randy Moss / New England Patriots-  With another year added to the age of both Randy Moss and his QB Tom Brady, Moss slips out of the Top 3, but not by much.  Moss in 2009 still had a very respectable year with 83 grabs for 1264 yards with 13 touchdowns.  Randy’s size still makes him a deadly deep threat with his length and jumping ability, not to mention is ability to bring in the ball with one hand.

All of this compiled with the fact that Moss has no choice to produce this year.  At 33 years of age, Moss is pushing for another big contract and without the numbers on the field, he will not see big numbers in his next contract either.  Being in a contract year is the biggest motivator that a professional football player experiences.  Look for Moss to keep his attitude in check and push for those numbers, bringing you fantasy paydirt!

#4.  Brandon Marshall / Miami Dolphins-  If Marshall still had Jay Cutler at QB, Brandon would be my #2 Wide Receiver.  Now that Chad Henne, who has been operating in a run first environment, is his starting Quarterback, Marshall’s stock drops a bit for several reasons.  Henne is not Cutler, and the Dolphins lack the ability to stretch the field and draw attention away from Marshall, who will be looking at constant double teams.  Miami shipped out Ted Ginn in the off-season, who would compliment Marshall as a deep threat.  It is Marshall’s talent that has him at #4, not his supporting cast.

#3.  Calvin Johnson / Detroit Lions-  Johnson, who had an off year last year as he only played 14 games had 67 receptions for 984 yards and 5 TD’s, will have a bounce back season in 2010.  Johnson will have another off-season under his belt with second year QB Matthew Stafford, which will help their on field chemistry.  The Lions added some Offensive firepower as well in the off-season with the additions of WR Nate Burleson and rookie RB Jahvid Best.  All of the above should will only lead to Johnson’s return to being a 1,000 yard receiver.  His size and skill set makes him a coverage nightmare and a TD machine.

#2.  Larry Fitzgerald / Arizona Cardinals-  Had Kurt Warner not retired, or Matt Leinart showed more in his past that he is a sure fire starter in the NFL, Larry would be like Ludacris, coming for that #1 spot!  Fitzgerald will face countless double teams this year with the loss of Anquan Boldin.  The Cardinals will also look to run the ball more this year than at any point of Fitzgerald’s playing career.  Yes, a lot to overcome, but if anyone is capable, it is Larry Fitzgerald.

#1.  Andre Johnson / Houston Texans-  Johnson’s last two years have been nothing less than ridiculous.  I would compare his stats to something you would see on a Madden video game, not legitimate NFL statistics.  In the last two years he has averaged 108 receptions for 1,572 yards and 8.5 touchdowns.  The only thing that will slow down Johnson would be any health issues that he or his QB Matt Schaub would sustain.  As stated above, with Larry Fitzgerald losing Anquan Boldin, who drew some double coverage attention away from him, and his QB Kurt Warner to retirement, Andre Johnson is the clear cut #1 Wide Receiver going into 2010!

Wide Reciever Insight from ProFootballinsight

I can already here you asking…  Where is Miles Austin?  Good question.  Yes, Miles Austin had an amazing year last year.  He quadrupled his three previous NFL seasons in one year.  Austin caught his opponents off guard last year as he exploded with 81 catches for 1,320 yards and 11 TD’s.  Austin will not surprise anyone this year after posting those stats.

So why is he not in the Top 10?  The Cowboys have so much talent on Offense that they need to play eight quarters, not four to get everyone involved.  Austin will be good this year, just not as good as last.  Roy Williams will not be as bad as he was last year, and they added rookie WR Dez Bryant, who will be involved as well.  Lets not forget about Pro-Bowl Tight End Jason Witten, or the fact that the Cowboys have three very talented Running Backs in Felix Jones, Marion Barber and Tashard Choice.  Quite frankly from a fantasy standpoint, they are too stacked for their own good.  The only exception to this is Tony Romo.

If you have any other questions or comments, we will get back to you.  Feel free to post your thoughts below.

Below are other related 2010 NFL Fantasy Football articles;

2010 Fantasy Football Draft Day Sleepers and Steals

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Quarterbacks

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Running Backs

2010 NFL Fantasy Football Kicker Advise

Stay in touch with ProFootballinsight.net by becoming a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant fantasy football updates.

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Unlike the rest of ProFootballinsight’s 2010 Fantasy Football position breakdowns, I will give you Kicker advise versus providing a Top 10 ranking followed by comprehensive insight into other impact players.

Every year In every draft, especially where alcohol is involved, some fantasy team owner will draft a highly touted Kicker off of a team where they have a projected high powered offense in the 7^th,, 8^th or 9^th round.  This lone draft pick starts a whirlwind of drafted kickers over the next several rounds.  AVOID FALLING INTO THIS TRAP!

Look at recent history.  In 2007, because of the strength of the New England Patriots offense, Stephen Gostkowski was considered a top 5 Kicker, and was drafted in the above spoken rounds throughout the fantasy world.  Gostkowski killed fantasy owners because all the Patriots did in 2007 was score touchdowns.  Even in their six plus touchdown games, Gostkowski fell into the bottom portion of Kickers in fantasy scoring for that week because he only had six extra points, or six fantasy points to speak of.

Meanwhile, the Titans in 2007 had an offense that was not viewed as a high powered offense.  Their Kicker, Rob Bironas was either sitting on every fantasy owners bench or was on waivers when in week 7 he had eight field goals one game.  The points varied for Bironas from league to league, but with the distance bonus factored in, was good for 30 fantasy points, and was in the top 10 among all fantasy players regardless of position for that specific week.

There are several Rob Bironas’s that come along every year.  The disparity from the top scoring Kicker to the lowest fantasy scoring Kicker who starts is not worth forcing yourself into a draft pick where you can grab players who can make a far bigger impact in your league.  A Kicker should not be drafted over a starting NFL Quarterback, period.  If there is a starting Running Back, a top 10 Defense, a Top 20 Tight End, a standout offensive flex position available, let the Kicker go.

If you are in a smaller league where you do not have a deep bench, or you do not have more than 10 teams participating, a Kicker can and should be your very last pick.  If you are in a deeper league of 10 or more teams and you carry a large bench of nine or more players, count how many Kickers have been drafted.  When you reach the number of 18 to 20, realistically look at drafting a kicker on your next pick.  If you league carries a trend of holding a back up Kicker on your roster, draft them back to back.

With the fact that the Kicker should and will be the weakest position on your team, watch the waiver wire each week.  Look for injuries to elite Kickers on good offenses and grab their backup.  Kickers are shuffled on fantasy teams all of the time and do not rate being taken in the first 12 rounds, unless you only have 12 players on your roster.

Let ProFootballinsight guide you in all of your Fantasy Football needs.  For all of ProFootballinsight’s Fantasy Content, click this link.

Below are other related 2010 NFL Fantasy Football articles;

2010 Fantasy Football Draft Day Sleepers and Steals

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Quarterbacks

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Running Backs

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Wide Recievers

Stay in touch with ProFootballinsight.net by becoming a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant fantasy football updates.

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Kurt@profootballinsight.net

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PITTSBURGH — The Steelers signed four draft picks today from this year’s NFL Draft, including wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders, linebacker Stevenson Sylvester, running back Jonathan Dwyer and wide receiver Antonio Brown. Financial terms of the contracts were not disclosed.

Sanders, pictured above (5-11, 180), out of SMU, was the Steelers’ third round pick (82^nd overall) in the Draft and finished as the Mustangs’ career leader in receptions (235), touchdown receptions (34) and receiving yards (3,791). He was a first-team all-Conference USA selection last year as a senior after posting 98 catches for 1,339 yards and seven touchdowns. Sanders ranked sixth in the NCAA with 103 receiving yards per game in 2009.

One of three linebackers selected in this year’s Draft by the Steelers, Sylvester (6-2, 231) was the team’s third of three selections in the fifth round (166^th overall). A first-team all-MWC selection for Utah, he was a two-year captain and the defensive MVP of the 2009 Poinsettia Bowl. Sylvester started all 13 games last year and finished with a team-best 81 tackles.

Dwyer (5-11, 229) was the Steelers first of two sixth-round picks (188^th overall) in this year’s NFL Draft out of Georgia Tech. A first-team all-ACC selection his final two seasons, he earned the conference’s Offensive Player of the Year award as a sophomore in 2008 after leading the team with 1,395 rushing yards on 200 carries while earning All-America status. Last year as a junior, he matched his rushing total from the previous year with 1,395 yards on 235 attempts, the fourth-best rushing total in school history. Dwyer added 14 touchdowns in 2009.

Brown (5-10, 186) was Pittsburgh’s second of two sixth-round selections (195^th overall) in this year’s Draft. He finished his career as Central Michigan’s all-time leader in receptions (305), which ranked second in MAC history. As a junior in 2009, Brown was named the conference’s Special Teams Player of the Year for the second straight season and earned first-team all-MAC honors as both a receiver and punt returner. He caught a school-record 110 passes for 1,198 yards and nine touchdowns last year.

With today’s signings, the Steelers now have six of their 10 draft picks under contract. Linebacker Thaddeus Gibson and defensive tackle Doug Worthington signed last week.

The Steelers made additional roster moves by releasing seven free agents, including wide receiver Jason Chery, kicker Piotr Czech, linebacker Derrick Doggett, punter Adam Graessle, nose tackle Cordarrow Thompson, center Bradley Vierling and cornerback Trae Williams.

Be sure to check ProFootballinsight.net daily for all of your Steelers information.   Become a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant Pittsburgh Steelers updates, notifications and more!

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No one could wrap up Chris Johnson in 2009!

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2010 Fantasy Football Top 10 Running Backs

#10.Cedric Benson / Cincinnati Bengals- After burning countless fantasy football owners over his first three years in the NFL, it is hard for me to list Cedric in my top 10 RB list.  With that said, his numbers last year do not lie, and the fact that not only did the Bengals not retain Larry Johnson, they did not add anyone who appears to have the ability to take carries from him either.

1,251 yards and 6 TD’s over 13 games last year is what Benson brings to the table.  Healthy for a full 16 games, add 300 more yards and 2 TD’s to that total.  Health has always been an issue for Benson, but if last year was any clue as to what Benson has in the tank for 2010, he belongs at the #10 spot!

#9.  Rashard Mendenhall / Pittsburgh Steelers- With Willie Parker out, Rashard is clearly the go to back in Pittsburgh.  The only setback I can see with Rashard, which ultimately dropped is ranking in my eyes, is to see how effective, or ineffective the Steelers offense will be minus Ben Roethlisberger for up to the first 6 games.

After a slow start to the 2009 season, Mendenhall closed with 1,108 yards rushing and 7 TD’s.  In only his 3rd NFL season, Mendenhall has fresh legs and should be poised to pound opposing NFL defenses 20 to 25 times a game, equaling above average fantasy point production.

#8.  Michael Turner / Atlanta Falcons- After an explosive 2008 campaign where he rushed for 1,699 yards in his Falcons debut season, Turner burned countless fantasy owners last season with a dismal 871 yards over 11 games.  I expect Turner’s production to be much higher than last year if he can obviously remain healthy.  Turner is now 28 years old, and unlike 2008, the Falcons offense seems to flow more through Matt Ryan, not Michael Turner.  The addition of Tony Gonzalez last year also took short yardage and goal line carries from Turner, as Gonzalez is a short yardage, red zone beast.  Turner still remains #8 based on the chance that he can demonstrate the raw explosiveness and break away run potential he showed countless times in 2008.

#7.  Steven Jackson / St. Louis Rams- Steven Jackson is sorely underrated and has been the victim of a severe lack of a passing game over the past few years.  At only 26 years of age, Jackson has carried the entire offensive load since Marc Bulger forgot how to play the quarterback position three years ago.

Defenses knew last year the St. Louis could not pass, and all they had to do was stop Jackson on the ground.  Somehow, with defenses stacked against him, Jackson gained 1,416 yards rushing with 4 TD’s.  Evident by his 2006 season, Steven is a receiving threat out of the backfield as he racked up 806 receiving yards.  Jackson has rushed for over 1,000 yards in his last 5 seasons and will be rookie QB Sam Bradford’s best friend under center.  If Bradford starts at QB, Jackson will be used on screens to help build Bradford’s confidence, and at only 26, it is hard to believe that Jackson won’t rush for his 6th consecutive 1,000 yard season.  Don’t look for a playoff run out of the Rams, but Jackson could help your team into and through the playoffs.

#6.  Maurice Jones-Drew / Jacksonville Jaguars- Minus Fred Taylor last year, Jones-Drew proved that he can be an every down back last year posting 1,391 yards rushing with 15 TD’s.  Maurice is also a receiving threat out of the backfield and is clearly the most vital part of the Jaguars offense.

As of today, the Jags have not made any key additions on the offensive side of the ball which would lead anyone to believe that Jones-Drew would not be capable of a similar showing of his 2009 NFL season.  His 09 stats were captured without any real threat of a passing game.  If the Jaguars can once again establish that they can hurt you through the air, this will only help Maurice by spreading defenses out versus facing a stacked box.

#5.  LeSean McCoy / Philadelphia Eagles- Out with the old Brian Westbrook, in with the new.  After seeing McCoy last year, he is clearly in the same league and chemical make-up as Westbrook was.  McCoy is a fast, shifty, hard runner who is equally as dangerous as a receiver out of the backfield.  McCoy only started 4 games last year and posted neary 1,000 yards gained from scrimmage.

LeSean also will benefit from the rest of the Eagles offensive firepower.  The Eagles offense on paper is a Top 5 fantasy football offense with all of the skill player position talent.  Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson have the ability to take it to the house every time they touch the ball.  Those two alone will stretch defenses, then factor in Brent Celek who will see a big jump in productivity this year with Kevin Kolb at QB, who played out of his mind in Donovan McNabb’s absence last year…  Oh yeah, don’t they still have that Michael Vick guy?  McCoy has an offensive blueprint for a Pro-Bowl season.

#4.  Frank Gore / San Fransisco 49ers- Gore is yet another victim running back suffering from a lack of passing game to support him.  Gore has eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing the last four seasons, and in 14 games last year, Gore rushed for 1,120 yards, posted 10 TD’s, and showed that he too can get receiving yards as well as he racked up 406 receiving yards with 3 TD’s through the air.  Gore is a franchise back and when healthy is a fantasy beast!

#3.  Ray Rice / Baltimore Ravens- In 2009, Rice was NICE!  In a run, run, run, run, run, pass and run a hundred more times offense, Rice went for over 2,000 yards from scrimmage and clearly emerged as the Ravens featured running back.

The Ravens added Anquan Boldin and Donte’ Stallworth which gives Baltimore a very respectable receiving corp, forcing defenses to have to play them more honestly, leaving them more vulnerable to Rice’s big play abilities.

#2.  Adrian Peterson / Minnesota Vikings- Peterson struggles with ball security.  There you have it, the only con to drafting Peterson.  Now for the pro’s.  Adrian has rushed for a minimum of 1,300 yards in all three of his NFL seasons.  Peterson can run by or through you.  Peterson is a goal line back and can take it 80 yards, and is a nightmare on screens.  Final stat, 41…  That is his touchdown total for his first 3 years!

I can make an argument for Adrian regardless of who is playing Quarterback for the Vikings.  If Brett Farve returns, defenses cannot stack the box on him.  If Farve does not return, AP will have to carry the offense, which his rookie season shows you all you need to see about those circumstances.  Just ask the San Diego Chargers how 296 yards on 30 carries tasted as he broke the single game NFL rushing record in his rookie season.  The QB for the Vikings, Brooks Bollinger posted a measly 95 yards passing.  I can easily make an argument for taking Peterson number 1, and would rather have the 2 pick versus 1, see Chris Johnson on this theory.

#1.  Chris Johnson / Tennessee Titans- I want to go on record and say that I would not want the number 1 pick in a fantasy draft this year.  Look through history and you will see that no player has ever come back from a fantasy year like Johnson had last year and repeats, or even statistically comes close.  Last year’s figures are nearly impossible to repeat, let alone beat.

With that said, Johnson destroyed NFL defenses all by himself.  This year he will not have LenDale White crying to the coaching staff and media over not getting any carries.  This will clearly be the Chris Johnson show.  Just off of the strength of throwing screen passes to Johnson, Vince Young is worth having as a #2 QB on your roster.

Johnson last year had over 2,500 yards from scrimmage and totaled 17 TD’s.  In leagues where you get a distance bonus on touchdown runs, Johnson is your guy as last year it seemed as if every other TD he had went for over 50 yards.

My final reason to doubt taking Johnson… He is set to make about 2.4 million this year and is more than upset with his current contract.  With the threat of a lock out in 2011, Johnson is looking to secure a deal now, versus the threat of never getting the payday he deserves.  Again, you can have the number 1 pick, I’m not interested.  If I did have it, and Johnson suits up, how could you possibly pass on him?

Running Back insight from ProFootballinsight

Not mentioned in my top 10 are the dynamic duo of DeAngelo Williams and Johathan Stewart.  If either one were not a Panther, they are both worthy of top 10 rankings.  As a duo, the Panthers feed whoever has the hot hand, which is usually Williams.  With that said, if he is your workhorse and Stewart is on fire, you’re screwed.  Both are great back-up running backs and are instant starters in the event of either going down with any type of injury.

Clinton Portis…  This is his first year out of my top 10.  He will clearly benefit from the arrival of bitter Donovan McNabb, but will most definitely lose carries to the other two very talented running backs on the roster (Larry Johnson and Willie Parker).  Portis is still worth carrying on your roster, but loses fantasy value with Johnson and Parker lurking in the background.

In Cleveland, Jerome Harrison is the fantasy Superman hiding in his Clark Kent suit.  Harrison had over 1,000 yards from scrimmage last year with only 7 games started.  Harrison is currently working on a new contract himself, and with the drafting of Montario Hardesty, Harrison is the current front runner in a crowded backfield.  With that said, Harrison displayed flashes of brilliance last year, and could be the steal of the 2010 draft.

Below are other related 2010 NFL Fantasy Football articles;

2010 Fantasy Football Draft Day Sleepers and Steals

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Quarterbacks

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers

2010 NFL Fantasy Football Kicker Advise

Stay in touch with ProFootballinsight.net by becoming a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant fantasy football updates.

Kurt Fraschetti / ProFootballinsight.net

Kurt@profootballinsight.net

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– JACKSONVILLE, FL – Wednesday, June 2, 2010 – The United Football League teams preparing for the 2010 season each added 12 players to their respective rosters through the 2010 Player Draft on Wednesday, June 2.

With the first selection of the 2010 UFL Draft, head coach of the expansion Omaha Nighthawks head coach Jeff Jagodzinski selected defensive end Dewayne White, a former second round NFL Draft pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers out of Louisville.  The Nighthawks then added a second defensive end in ten-year NFL veteran Chike Okeafor with the first pick of the second round.

“I am really excited about the guys that we’ve picked and feel that we are putting together a good team of youth and experience,” said coach Jagodzinski.  “These are guys that can make a difference and rush the passer in the case of Dewayne and Chike.”

In the third round, the Nighthawks selected a former first round NFL Draft pick in offensive tackle Shawn Andrews, who was taken 16th overall in 2004 by the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Nighthawks earned the first selection in the opening six rounds by virtue of being an expansion team and were followed in order by the Hartford Colonials (0-6 in 2009 as the New York Sentinels), Sacramento Mountain Lions (2-4 in 2009 as the California Redwoods), Florida Tuskers (6-0 in 2009, losing Championship Game finalists) and Las Vegas Locos   (4-2 in 2009, UFL Premiere Season Champions).  Rounds seven through 12 followed a waiver wire selection system.

With the second overall selection, first year Hartford Colonials head coach Chris Palmer selected a local favorite in Connecticut running back Andre Dixon, who earned Second Team All-Big East honors both his sophomore and senior years.  His 33 carries for 126 yards and a touchdown in the 2009 Papajohn.com Bowl earned him the game MVP title.

Coach Palmer explained: “He went down to Danbury for our tryouts and had an excellent workout and I was very pleased with what I saw.  I talked to the people at UConn and they told me he was a guy who caught the ball extremely well.  You don’t see that on film because they don’t throw ball that much.  He has great hands.

“We selected players who had attended all three of our workouts in Berlin, Danbury and Virginia, which shows just how worthwhile those tryouts are.”

With his first round pick, Sacramento Mountain Lions head coach Dennis Green selected quarterback Justin Goltz, who was in training camp with the Detroit Lions in 2009 having been a three-year starter at Occidental.

“He came to two of our camps and was very impressive,” said Green.  “He was a two-sport athlete in college and is a big tall guy with a really strong arm.

“We needed a couple of things and drafted two big offensive linemen in Tavita Thompson and Carl Spitale so that worked out for us.  We got two good cornerbacks in Tim Clark and Willie Glasper, who both have exceptional speed.  We feel very excited about the 52 players we have.”

Jay Gruden and the Florida Tuskers selected a pair of linebackers with the fourth and ninth picks overall in Weston Dacus from Arkansas and Arnold Harrison, who won a Super Bowl ring with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“We are excited,” said Gruden.  “Dacus is an athletic linebacker who was with Kansas City and everyone I spoke to there had positive things to say about him.  We need to get more speed and athleticism at the linebacker spot and these are two players who will have an immediate impact.  Harrison was a big time player at Georgia and can play all three linebacker positions.”

The reigning UFL champion Las Vegas Locos made two defensive selections with the final picks of the first two rounds in linebacker Dominic Payne and cornerback Michael Ray Garvin.

“We thought Dominic was a tremendous athlete who will give us a lot of versatility,” said Locos head coach Jim Fassel.  “Michael Ray was the fastest guy I have ever seen run a 40.  He is lightning fast and quick and he has a great attitude.  He went to same high school as my son Mike and was a teammate of one of our linebackers, Brian Toal, so we had him in for a workout.  At one time he was the leading kickoff returner in NCAA.

“Overall from the draft, we thought we needed a guy here and there to round out the team.  We weren’t depleted and we did a lot of research and most every one of the players we picked we had worked out.  It is down to the character of a player and his attitude.  We need a mix of pros with leadership qualities and young developing players.”

The Omaha Nighthawks spent the 60th and final pick overall on former Denver Broncos and New York Jets safety Nick Ferguson.  The former Georgia Tech star also won a World Bowl ring with the Rhein Fire of NFL Europe.

The drafted players will join players already protected by their 2009 clubs, or selected in the expansion draft by the Nighthawks, taking each team’s provisional roster to the maximum of 52 allowed.  From June 3 onwards, teams may increase that number to 70 players who can participate in forthcoming Mini Camps.

Players selected in the draft shall remain on each team’s Reserved Unsigned List until formally added to the roster by virtue of a negotiated contract.  Each team’s roster will be released next week as they prepare to enter mini camps.

• 20 protected players
• 20 additional unsigned free agents
• 12 drafted players

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Kurt Fraschetti / ProFootballinsight.net

Kurt@profootballinsight.net

Browns Player Quotes 6-3-10

(Gocong, Hardesty, McCoy, McDonald, Pashos, Wallace)

Chris Gocong

(On getting a fresh start with a new team)- “I’ve always wanted to play in a 3-4 and playing with Rob (Ryan), it’s a cool thing.  I’ve only been in OTAs about three weeks and still, it’s like a breath of fresh air.  He’s so fresh and he keeps it so open to the players that it’s fun.”

(On what he hopes to achieve here)- “I have my own numbers in mind, but right now I am just learning the defense and being able to do whatever I can, wherever I can. It doesn’t matter if it’s inside or outside.”

Montario Hardesty

(On if he thinks the starting running back job is up for grabs)- “That right there is not my decision.  For me, I have to just come out here and just work hard and just continue to show what I can do on the field and I think if I continue to do that then a role for myself on the team will come from doing that.”

(On if he has expectations of having a significant role as a rookie)- “No, like I said this is just OTAs, we’ve got minicamp, we’ve got training camp.  I’ve never done that before so I’m not really sure what to expect. I know I’m going to come out and push myself hard every day and we will see what comes from that come season time.”

Colt McCoy

(On how OTAs are going)-  “It’s going real well.  There’s a lot of stuff, a lot of install.  Just staying in my study book, studying with Jake (Delhomme) and Seneca (Wallace) and Ratty (Brett Ratliff) and those guys. Just really trying to understand what’s going on and the reps that I get, make them productive and keep moving on from practice to practice so it’s been going really well and I’m excited.”

(On if the lights seem to be coming on more and more)- “They do, they do.  We’re still installing some stuff, but I’m starting to get more comfortable with everything and just getting adjusted to the speed of the game, the way the game’s played, the new rules in the NFL compared to the college rules and just really soaking it all in.”

(On if the NFL is anything different that what he thought it would be)- “Not at all, it’s football.  Once you get the playbook down and you get comfortable with what you’re doing, the calls, the adjustments, then it’s playing football like you were when you were a little kid. I’m just working to get to that point.”

Brandon McDonald

(On playing hard no matter his place in the lineup)- “I’m just a guy that wants to take advantage of my opportunities.  This game is not promised, you can be in one year and out the next.  I’m just trying to make the best of my opportunities right now.”

(On adding players in the secondary during the offseason)- “I don’t see it as negative.  Like I said, I see that as a positive for this team and this secondary.  It was obvious that we needed help.  I think they made some great additions by bringing in Sheldon (Brown) and Joe (Haden) and the rest of the guys that they brought in.  I think we had a good offseason program, a good draft and guys are really out here working right now trying to get better.”

(On finishing the season on a four-game winning streak last year)- “I just think that it made everybody feel like we are not giving up.  Regardless of what the record is or how bad the year has been, we are going to fight until the end, and that’s what we did.  It gave us a lot of momentum leaving out of that year and coming into this next year.”

Tony Pashos

(On winning a starting job)- “Initially it’s a step process, one step at a time.  I’m trying to learn the plays, the way to do things around here, the guys around me, schemes and whatnot.  Down the road that takes care of itself, but initially I have got to learn to play in this system.”

Seneca Wallace

(On what he has shown Coach Mangini so far)- “It’s all new to me.  This is a different type of offense than what I’m used to.  I’m still growing every day, trying to get better and understand this offense.  I get hard on myself because I always want things to be perfect and I know that coming into a new system, it’s going to take awhile.  I think I showed him that I can lead the team, I can make all of the throws and obviously I’ll continue playing when things break down and make some good plays.”

(On the biggest difference coming to a new team)- “It’s probably the terminology.  I’ve been used to a west coast offense type system for seven years.  You come to a (new) system and it’s like you have got to all of a sudden learn Spanish overnight.  It’s tough trying to work with that and obviously, it’s an east coast type, New England type of offense and that’s different.  You just have got to put some of those things and group them together.  Some things that I had on the west coast, I will try and carry it over here too.”

(On adjusting his style of play in a new offense)- “I think I have got to adjust to them.  I’m new here obviously and I’ve got to adjust to what they are doing.  Right now, I’ve got to understand what they want.  As we progress, then I can start turning my game into what I do and bring it to what they do.  It’s kind of tough, but you have got to understand the system first before you start trying to create things.”

Be sure to check ProFootballinsight.net daily for all of your Cleveland Browns news and information.   Become a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant Cleveland Browns updates, notifications and more!

Kurt Fraschetti / ProFootballinsight.net

Kurt@profootballinsight.net

ProFootballinsight.net has released their pre-training camp edition of their Top 10 Fantasy Football Quarterback’s for the 2010 Fantasy Football / NFL Season.  Be sure to check in frequently with ProFootballinsight.net as each skill position will be evaluated over the next two weeks.

Top 10 Fantasy Quarterbacks

#10.  Brett Farve / Minnesota Vikings- This of course is only if Farve returns to the Vikings, which based on history will be determined by the third pre-season game.  Yes, Farve is like 107 years old…  Yes, Farve is a media diva…  Yes, Yes, YES!  In light of what I just said, did you see the kind of numbers that 40 year old Brett Farve produced last year?  How would you like to get 4,202 yards and 33 touchdowns to only 7 interceptions from your starting Quarterback?  I’m on board, and you should be too.  The Vikings offense is versatile and Farve can piggyback off of Adrian Peterson, versus Farve carrying the other 10 guys on the field.  If Farve returns, I am forced to believe that he can still produce.

#9.  Donovan McNabb / Washington Redskins- A few things to remember about Donovan McNabb.  First, he never plays through a full season, and is always battling injuries.  Second, when in the game and healthy, he produces great fantasy numbers at an alarming rate.  Third, he plays with a ton of heart and emotion, which is why I would gamble on Donovan McNabb this year.  After all of the drama that McNabb has been through since his rookie year of 1999, and the fact that the Eagles let him go at a point where Donovan knows that he still has more in the tank, he will play every game with all he has for one reason, to burn the Eagles.

Since Donovan is still in the Eagles division, which was not bright on the Eagles part, he knows that every win that the Redskins chalk up will negatively affect the Eagles.  Picture Farve vs Green Bay times 10, and this is what you have here!

Photo Credit: Sportinglife.com

#8.  Jay Cutler / Chicago Bears- Even in what everyone viewed as an “off year” for Cutler last year, he still had 3,666 yards passing and 27 touchdowns with no true wide receiver to throw to.  Yes, Cutler severely misses Brandon Marshall, but still managed with no running game and a group of converted defensive backs to play the wide receiver spot.  Cutler still has a great target in underrated Greg Olsen, and should have a running game to rely on now that Chester Taylor has been added to the team.  I look for Cutler to look more like he did in 2008 this year versus his 2009 campaign.

#7.  Philip Rivers / San Diego Chargers- Since taking over the Chargers starting QB spot in 2006, Rivers has been a permanent fixture under center, as he has started in 16 games each season.  His last two years, he has posted 4,000 plus passing yardage seasons, and has an exceptional touchdown to interception ratio.  With the loss of future hall-of-famer LaDainian Tomlinson at running back, I expect that Rivers will be relied upon more to make up for the inadequacies of the running game.  Rivers has great targets in All-Pro Tight End Antonio Gates and Wide Receivers Vincent Jackson and Malcom Floyd.  Rivers will give you steady fantasy numbers from the Quarterback position.

#6.   Matt Schaub / Houston Texans- Last year Schaub finally shook the injury bug and showed what he is capable of, 4,770 yards passing, 29 touchdowns to only 15 interceptions.  Schaub has arguably one of the most talented Wide Receivers in the NFL to throw to in Andre Johnson, and Owen Daniels at the Tight End position.  Daniels in only eight games last year racked up 5 touchdowns and 519 yards!  Double that over 16 games and your looking at 10 TD’s and over 1,000 yards receiving!  Yes, you will see Daniels on my Tight End top 10.  Over the past few years, the Texans have failed to get the running game on track, forcing the offense to go through Schaub and the passing game.  Even if the Texans find a consistent running game, this will only open up the secondary for Schaub and his dynamic duo.  A healty Matt Schaub equals monster fantasy points.

#5.  Tony Romo / Dallas Cowboys- Romo had a fantastic fantasy year last year as he posted 4,483 yards passing with 26 touchdowns to only 9 interceptions.  The knock on Romo is that he can’t win big games.  This is fantasy football, who cares about the big game which occurs well after your fantasy season has ended.  The Cowboys have loaded up their high powered air attack by adding rookie Dez Bryant into the mix.  Bryant enters a receiving group that currently is represented by Roy Williams, Miles Austin, Jason Witten and Felix Jones out of the backfield.  Scoring should not be difficult for this offense, regardless of the defensive match up!
#4.  Tom Brady / New England Patriots- Brady last year posted 4,398 yards passing, 28 touchdowns to 13 interceptions in a year coming off of a serious injury.  Brady posted these numbers after only having one 3oo yard game over his first five of the season.  Yes, the Patriots and Tom Brady are a year older, but he is still Tom Brady.  Until Brady and Co. give you a reason to not think he is going to pass for over 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns in a season, he is a must have at the Quarterback position.

#3.  Peyton Manning / Indianapolis Colts- Manning has passed for over 4,000 yards in 1o of his 12 NFL seasons.  The Colts have not established the running game in two years, forcing Manning to throw.  If I were opposing defenses, I would rather their running backs get loose before allowing Manning to carve them up.  After Wide Receiver Anthony Gonzalez went down for the season last year, Manning took players that most households never heard of before and turned them into well recognized figures in the fantasy football world, Wide Receivers Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon.  Manning, just like Brady, is still Peyton Manning and is a must have until proven otherwise.

#2.  Aaron Rodgers / Green Bay Packers- Since #4 left the Packers only to burn them in Minnesota, Rodgers did all he could to pull himself out of Farve’s shadow.  Rodgers averaged over 4,200 passing yards and 29 touchdowns since Farve’s departure.  On yet another team which has not established the run consistently in recent years, Rodgers had no problem exposing defensive secondaries.  The Packers are talented at the receiver position as well.  Greg Jennings, Donald Driver and James Jones are difficult match ups for any defense to cover, in addition to Jermichael Finley at the Tight End position.  Rodgers is poised for yet another All-Pro type season.

#1.  Drew Brees / New Orleans Saints- Drew Brees has posted numbers that mirror or surpass those of Peyton Manning and Tom Brady since joining the Saints in 2006.  Brees has a plethora of weapons surrounding him, and with what appears to be a weaker Saints defense returning this year, Brees and the Saints offense will be relied upon more than last year.  Brees has dodged the injury bug throughout his career and is worthy of a top 5 first round draft pick based on the scoring of your league.

Quarterback insight from ProFootballinsight

Due to off-season issues, Ben Roethlisberger’s top 10 status has left him.  Ben would have fell into the number 8 slot for PFI, but will not be available for the first four to six weeks due to his suspended status.  Roethlisberger is worthy of a late round steal, and can provide you with some additional fire power heading into your league’s playoffs.

Chad Henne is also worthy of taking a close look at since the addition of Brandon Marshall.  If you doubt me, take a look at the numbers that Kyle Orton posted throwing to Marshall.  Everyone on the field last year knew Marshall was going to get the ball, but yet no one could stop him.  Because of Marshall, Henne is worthy of starting in deep leagues.

The Eagles have two Quarterbacks that if were on separate teams, would crack into or be near PFI’s top 10.  Kevin Kolb posted enormous numbers in Donovan McNabb’s absence, and if given a steady opportunity, Michael Vick would produce solid fantasy numbers as well.  If you can land either player late and pray for an injury to one of these two Quarterbacks, you have a certified stud in your stable.

Finally, taking either Arizona Cardinals Quarterback late could be a big payoff.  Derek Anderson could return to his 2007 season form with top 3 Wide Receiver Larry Fitzgerald on the receiving end.  The Cardinals are still waiting for former first round pick Matt Leinart to play the way that he did at USC which prompted his high draft pick status.  Leinart currently holds the #1 spot on the Cardinals depth chart, but he is only one miserable game away from losing that spot.

Below are other related 2010 NFL Fantasy Football articles;

2010 Fantasy Football Draft Day Sleepers and Steals

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Running Backs

2010 Top 10 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers

2010 NFL Fantasy Football Kicker Advise

Stay in touch with ProFootballinsight.net by becoming a fan of ProFootballinsight on Facebook or follow fraschettik on Twitter for instant fantasy football updates.

Kurt Fraschetti / ProFootballinsight.net

Kurt@profootballinsight.net

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