Waiver Wire Work for NFL Week #7

[bcbadgalz]

Here are a bunch of articles that i reviewed so far regarding possible pick-ups and other information leading into week #7 of the season.
I will add the last few as they come available to me, so check back if your interested. Best wishes to you and your fantasy team in week #7!

On a Sunday full of big hits, the one DeSean Jackson took might have been the biggest. The Eagles wide receiver -- who returned to his 2009 form with two long touchdowns in the first quarter -- took a hit from Dunta Robinson Sunday that left both players with concussions.

Jackson will be out for a while, but it's unclear if anyone else available on the Eagles is a quality fantasy option. No. 2 wideout Jeremy Maclin is already a fantasy starter. Brent Celek has been disappointing this year, but is still also probably starting in most leagues. Does anyone on the Eagles' offense improve? It's unlikely Andy Reid will run the ball much more, and No. 3 wide receiver Jason Avant isn't likely to put up huge numbers every week. If he does, it's probably too risky to waste a roster spot on him right now.

If you're a Jackson owner, you're going to have to look to another team for a replacement, which is common. Wide receivers aren't like running backs; they don't usually have a clear backup who will come in after a serious injury and carry the load. In most cases with wide receivers, it will be at least a week until we're sure who will get more catches in Jackson's absence.

Once again this week, look for players on the hot seat; this week's crop is full of stars who are underproducing and are options to be traded if you're looking to shake up your team.

Quarterback
Does your league use a team quarterback? Lucky you, at least if you have the Eagles. Kevin Kolb, just a few weeks from being benched in favor of Michael Vick, had the best game of this young career: 23-for-29, 326 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT. Andy Reid says Vick is the starter when he comes back from injury, but Reid says a lot of things.

If Vick doesn't return next week and Kolb has another good game, we're set for full two weeks of quarterback controversy in Philadelphia with the Eagles' bye in Week 8. If your quarterback situation is bad -- or you have Vick and plan on him being your starter for the second half of the season and you have the roster spot, pick up Kolb.

Chad Henne (23-of-39, 231 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT): He's not an ideal option for next week against Pittsburgh, but a nice game against the injured-but-talented Packers pass defense makes him an attractive option who's available in most leagues.

On the hot seat: Brett Favre. The Vikings were able to edge Dallas, but Favre didn't put up anything approaching fantasy-starter numbers: 14-for-19, 118 yards, 1 TD. At this point, Favre isn't a starting fantasy QB. Keep him on the bench.

Running back
One can almost picture Bill Belichick laughing maniacally in his office. Maybe he does that all the time, but this week it'd be due to the performance of Danny Woodhead. The castoff from the Jets looked to be a player only known to fans of Hard Knocks. Instead, he's averaging 7.3 yards a carry. Sunday, he carried 11 times for 63 yards and caught 5 passes for 52 yards (on 7 targets).

Woodhead probably won't put up double-digit yards every week, but after three weeks it's clear he has a relatively large role to play in the Patriots' offense. His numbers might even continue increase. If your team is in need of a running back Woodhead could be the surprise of the second half of the season. He'll be splitting carries with BenJarvus Green-Ellis but his receiving threats make him a starter if you're a little desperate.

Chris Ivory (15 carries, 158 yards): Ivory might already be gone in your league, Pierre Thomas will be coming back, and Ivory won't be facing the Buccaneers defense again anytime soon. But he might be a good guy to stash on your bench or even be a third running back in a huge league when Thomas comes back; Thomas' ankle injury is also worse than originally expected, so you can use him confidently until then.

Donald Brown: The Colts' backup didn't play Sunday night but Joseph Addai was injured for the second straight game. The Colts have a bye next week, but Addai's injury didn't look good and he could end up being out for several weeks. It might be worth it to try to steal Brown if you have the roster spot.

On the hot seat: Michael Turner. The Falcons stuck to the running game despite falling behind 21-0 to the Eagles, but Turner still had just 45 yards on 15 carries. Unless your team is stacked, he's still someone you'll probably have to start, but with only one touchdown this year you might want to think about trading him if you get a good offer.

Wide receiver
The Patriots re-acquired Deion Branch from Seattle after trading away Randy Moss and he returned to the Pats in style, catching 9 passes for 98 yards and a touchdown in Week 6. Tom Brady targeted Branch 12 times, one ahead of Wes Welker for most on the team. Sure, he could just be a one-week wonder once teams get more film of him with the Patriots, but there's reason to think Branch can keep this up: He knows the system and is obviously comfortable with Brady. You'll feel pretty foolish if you need a receiver and don't pick him up.

Anthony Armstrong (5 catches, 46 yards): Donovan McNabb's favorite young target this year in Washington appears to be Armstrong. The 27-year-old rookie caught a 47-yard TD in a win over Green Bay, then was targeted seven times against the Colts Sunday night. More good news: The Redskins finally had a running game in Week 6, so the passing game should be opened up a little more.

Patrick Crayton (6 catches, 117 yards): San Diego lost both Antonio Gates and Malcom Floyd to injuries Sunday, so Philip Rivers targeted Crayton seven times on the day. Gates' injury isn't as serious as originally feared but Floyd will almost certainly miss this week's game. Crayton is a decent fantasy option as long as Floyd is out.

On the hot seat: Marques Colston. What's up with this guy? The Saints star doesn't have a 100-yard game, he hasn't scored a touchdown and he has just 340 yards over six weeks. Again, he's a guy you're going to probably continue to start unless you have an incredibly deep wideout corps, but be on the lookout for trade partners.

Tight end
Heath Miller hasn't done much this year but finally got into the end zone courtesy of the return of Ben Roethlisberger. Miller was targeted four times and caught a 24-yard score. If Roethlisberger is going to target him near the red zone, his value goes up a little. It's not until Week 15, though, that the Steelers face a defense that guards the tight end well. Miller's production could end up going way up.

Owen Daniels (5 catches, 79 yards): Daniels had his strongest game of the season; his five catches in Week 6 were a third of his season total. Daniels was the top tight end in the league before tearing his ACL last year; although he says he's 100 percent, his production has been nowhere near last season's levels. The next two weeks Daniels and the Texans face teams (Indianapolis and San Diego) who don't cover the tight end very well. He's a sleeper bye week fill-in against either one.

On the hot seat: Jason Witten. He's had a decent season, but nothing approaching his draft position. He was targeted five times for 52 yards Sunday and has just the one touchdown. Same advice here: Keep him, but don't hesitate to let him go if the deal is right.

Defense
The hot NFL team this week? The Minnesota Vikings, who are 2-3 but are suddenly the hot pick to win the NFC North. The Vikings' defense has been incredibly disappointing and might have been dropped in your league. They might be worth picking up: The rest of the season schedule isn't impossible, with five more games against suspect (or injured) NFC North teams.

Kicker
The kicking carousel continues in New Orleans, as Garrett Hartley returned to the Saints' lineup Sunday. He hit a 27-yard field goal and missed a 33-yarder, but Sean Payton said after the game that Hartley was his kicker going forward. Whoever kicks for the Saints is a starting fantasy kicker, no matter how many missed chip shots. Hartley's the guy for now.
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While last week provided plenty of player personnel movement, which would have resulted in plenty of action on the waiver wire, there were no big trades this week.

However, there were some surprising performances this week and there are some solid options for redraft and dynasty leagues on this week’s waiver wire.

RB Chris Ivory, Saints

With Pierre Thomas out once again, Ivory clearly separated himself from the Saints' other backup running backs this week with his first big performance of the season. Ladell Betts and Julius Jones looked pedestrian this week while Ivory put up a healthy 158 yards on just 15 carries and chipped in 17 receiving yards on his lone reception.

Thomas has yet to even test his injured ankle in practice, which means Ivory could be line for significant touches this week against a porous Browns defense.

WR Jason Avant, Eagles

Injuries create opportunities and Avant has a big opportunity. With DeSean Jackson expected to miss at least one game with a concussion (and possibly several more), Avant steps into the starting lineup in and he has produced when given an opportunity in the past.

He caught 41 of 58 targets in 2009 for 587 yards and three touchdowns, and immediately becomes a decent bye week starter as long as Jackson is out.

RB Danny Woodhead, Patriots

Looks like Woodhead has assumed Kevin Faulk’s role in the Patriots offense and is getting plenty of playing time when the team goes to a no-huddle look. He is splitting time with BenJarvus Green-Ellis, and is also being used on passing downs with Green-Ellis getting the short yardage work.

In the Patriots pass-heavy offense, Woodhead figures to get enough looks to be a solid flex option. He has 25 touches over the last two games and has turned that into 162 yards and a touchdown.

WR Patrick Crayton, Chargers

As noted above, Crayton is another player who benefits from his teammates going down. Crayton figures to benefit from the injuries suffered by wide receiver Malcom Floyd and tight end Antonio Gates.

Early reports indicate Floyd will miss this week’s game against the Patriots and that Gates may be able to suit up. However, he is likely to see a reduced workload due to his injured ankle.

In addition, fellow wideout Legedu Naanee is dealing with an injured hamstring and could be ready to return this week. Crayton took advantage of his increased role this week against the Rams, catching six of seven targets for 117yards.

WR Danario Alexander, Rams

Alexander put up solid numbers in his first action as a pro this week, catching four passes for 72 yards and a touchdown. On the touchdown, Alexander showed deceptive speed, going past Chargers cornerback Antoine Cason and making a diving catch in the end zone.

Alexander was expected to be a taken in the early rounds of the draft before he suffered a knee injury at the Senior Bowl, which caused him to go undrafted. The Rams' other outside receivers are unproven players (Brandon Gibson, Laurent Robinson, Mardy Gilyard) so Alexander has a chance to impress.

While he’s hardly a candidate to start on a weekly basis in 10-team leagues, he could be useful in larger redraft leagues and in dynasty formats.



Week 6 Review

If you’re looking for accountability, here it is.

WR Danny Amendola, Rams

Thumbs down. Amendola had a season-low five targets with three receptions for 19 yards.

WR Kenny Britt, Titans

Thumbs up. With the Titans having an early lead, Britt was targeted five times, catching two passes for 33 yards and a touchdown. If you’re counting, and you should be, that’s a touchdown in four consecutive games.

WR Brandon Tate, Patriots

Thumbs down. Tate showed he’s not quite ready for prime time with no receptions on his four targets against the Ravens.

QB Vince Young, Titans

Half full, half empty. Young suffered knee and ankle injuries this week, forcing him out early during the Titans' Monday night matchup with the Jaguars. Reports indicate he could have returned, so he’s worth holding onto as a fantasy backup.

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Welcome to the Team (a.k.a. Pick-Up)
Chris Ivory, RB, NO - Here is waiver claim #1 this week. The Saints have high hopes for Ivory, but he just needs to learn a few things (like pass blocking) before they were more comfortable giving him more playing time. After this week, expect the Saints to give him more PT. Ivory toasted the Bucs to the tune of 158 rushing yards on just 15 carries and tacked on a 17 yard reception for good measure. He played a huge role in their critical NFC South win.

Ryan Torain, RB, WAS - Torain has been gobbled up in almost all leagues, but if you can believe, the he is still out there in a few. If you find yourself in one of those leagues, run, don't walk to the waiver wire and get Torain. He is really coming into his own, and making Mike Shanahan grin from ear to ear. He ran extremely well under the bright lights of Sunday night, posting 100 yards and 2 TDs on 20 attempts. He also had one reception for 9 yards.

Marshawn Lynch, RB, SEA - The Hawks are lovin' this bruiser when the tough yards are needed, including those all important tough goal line yards. Lynch was serviceable fantasy wise posting 53 total yards of offense and a TD.

Danny Woodhead, RB, NE - There is always a RB soup in New England, but with BYE weeks in full force, it should be noted Woodhead notched 63 yards on the ground and 52 yards in the air on 5 receptions.

Brandon Jacobs, RB, NYG - Jacobs is starting to heat up in the all important TD category. He nailed two more TDs on Sunday from short yardage (4 and 6 yards).

Dwayne Bowe, WR, KC - According to publically available league stats, there are more than a few leagues with owner's asleep at the wheel as Bowe is available for pick-up. Bowe has been heating up and starting to get on the same page as his QB. He ended the day on Sunday with 6 receptions for 108 yards and 2 TDs.

Deion Branch, WR, NE - Well, the Pats wasted no time getting reacquainted with Branch. He hauled in 9 receptions for 98 yards and a TD. Many of the routes the WRs run in New England were originally developed by/for Branch, who seems to picking up where he left off a few years ago before departing to Seattle.

Danario Alexander, WR, STL - A paper thin WR corps got even thinner with yet another season ending injury to a WR (first Avery, now Clayton). The defense was focused on Danny Amendola, which left the door open for someone else. That someone else was Alexander, who pulled in 4 receptions for 72 yards and a TD. As well as Bradford is throwing the ball right now, Alexander is worth a roster slot to see what develops moving forward.

Mike Williams, WR, SEA - Williams had a big day on Sunday, pulling in 10 receptions for 123 yards. The departure of Deion Branch to New England has given Williams new life, and he leads the pack on Hasselbeck's new "favorites" list.

Jason Avant, WR, PHI - Avant could see in increase in production pending the news on DeSean Jackson. He pulled in 5 receptions for 62 yards. While option 1 will be Jeremy Maclin, as much as Philly tosses the rock, whoever emerges as option 2 is still a viable WR2 fantasy start.

Ben Watson, TE, CLE - Nothing is more friendly to a rookie QB than a veteran TE. That proved true once again as Watson pulled in 6 receptions for 88 yards and a TD.

Owen Daniels, TE, HOU - Daniels had a nice day pulling in 5 receptions for 79 yards. He has always had great hands and is looking good after an unfortunate injury.

Dan Carpenter, PK, MIA - Carpenter is clearly trying to copy Tom Brady's hair to get him a few extra fantasy points... and points with the ladies. Sure looks like it in week 6 fantasywise, as he kicked several critical FGs, including the game winner in OT. Carpenter ended the day with 2 PATs and 3 FGs (41, 44, 53). Notice the distance, which is an added plus in many fantasy scoring systems. As for the ladies, we'll leave that comment to Carpenter.



Show 'em the Door (a.k.a. Drop)
Note: This advice is intended for redraft leagues only.

Derek Anderson, QB, ARI - Wow. This is just nasty. Keep Anderson far, far away from your roster.

Donnie Avery, WR, STL - The stage was set for Avery to have a big season, but a torn ACL has ended those hopes.

Bernard Berrian, WR, MIN - Berrian has been a huge disappointment. He has all the opportunity in the world to take advantage of the Vikes needing someone to step up in the receiving corps, and he absolutely blew it. The door has completely slammed shut now with Randy Moss in town, although you could argue it was slammed shut much earlier than that.

LaGarrette Blount, RB, TB - The speedster flashed big potential in the preseason, but this rookie has really struggled this season and is best left off your roster. Use that spot on another player that can help your team.

Antonio Bryant, WR, FA - In another brilliant managerial move by the Bungles, they evaluate both Bryant and Terrell Owens in March... decide to shell out the big bucks on Bryant... just to come crawling back to Owens in the summer. Now Bryant is out as his bum knee continued to bother him, taking the Bungles' cash with him.

Jason Campbell, QB, OAK - The Silver and Black may have made a move in the offseason to get Campbell, but he has been a huge disappointment this season.

Mark Clayton, WR, STL - Clayton was tapping into that Sooner magic with his new QB, but a torn patella tendon suffered in week 5 has ended his 2010 season.

Jermichael Finley, TE, GB - Finley is an incredible talent, but unfortunately he suffered a knee in injury in week 5 that will force him to miss most, if not all, of the season.

Ryan Grant, RB, GB - Grant suffered a season ending ankle injury in week 1.

Montario Hardesty, RB, CLE - Hardesty injured his knee (ACL tear) and is done for the year.

Jerome Harrison, RB, PHI - Just a season ago Harrison notched nearly a 300 yard rushing game, but now his fantasy value is next to zilch. Peyton Hillis ran him out of Cleveland, and now he slides into a back-up role behind LeSean McCoy in Philly.

Devin Hester, WR, CHI - Unless in a league that also rewards fantasy points for kickoff and punt return yardage, it is best to catch-and-release Hester if you drafted him. He has done anything but clicked in Mike Martz's new offense.

Shaun Hill, QB, DET - He was a nice spot start for a couple of weeks, but the shelf life on Hill has expired.

Tory Holt, WR, FA - This perennial Pro-Bowler's best years are far behind him. Don't waste a roster slot reflecting on yesteryear.

Larry Johnson, RB, FA - This once proud fantasy back is beyond washed up.

Matt Leinart, QB, HOU - So much for taking advantage of the departure of Kurt Warner. Leinart stunk up the joint in the preseason, got shipped to Houston, and now is floating around in the land of worthless fantasy value.

Laurence Maroney, RB, DEN - There was some hope the trade to Denver may spark something in Maroney. That didn't happen. He has run poorly and things are awfully crowded in New England West.

Legedu Naanee, WR, SD - After week 1 it looked like Naanee might capitalize on the opportunity left by Vincent Jackson's absence, but injuries and Malcom Floyd have crushed that opportunity.

Greg Olsen, TE, CHI - OC Mike Martz does not like to use TEs in his offense, and Olsen's numbers reflect that.

Willie Parker, RB, FA - Fast Willie Parker is nowhere to be found on the football field. Looks like roller skates at Sonic are the only way for him to keep his title now.

Jason Snelling, RB, ATL - Unless you own Michael Turner, it is best to let Snelling go at this point. After a week 2 explosion, his role in offense has decreased.

Brandon Tate, WR, NE - There was some hope Tate could take advantage of the departure of Randy Moss, but the addition of Deion Branch has shown otherwise.

Kevin Walter, WR, HOU - Walter had a huge week 2 and will probably pop at least one, if not two, more decent games. However, your team will get crushed as you start him each week thinking "this is the week."

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Week 7 - Wavier Wire Pickups. If you are looking for a free agent or waiver wire pickup for your fantasy football team in Week 7, here are a

couple of the best options likely available in your league. Waiver Wire Pickups at each starting position are posted, including QB - RB - WR - TE - K - D. Each players ownership percentage in a standard 10 team yahoo public league is posted after their name.

QUARTERBACK

Kevin Kolb - Phi = @Ten / 51%
Hitting on all cylinders last week, Kolb is absolutely worthy of a starting spot in all fantasy football leagues this week. And on a side note, Kolb played just as well even after DeSean Jackson left the game with an injury. In other words, even if Jackson does not play in this game, Kolb is still an excellent starting QB option for fantasy football teams, as he still has three excellent playmakers in Jeremy Maclin, Brent Celek and LeSean McCoy to pass the ball to. 250 passing yards and 2 touchdowns.

Matt Cassel - KC = Jac / 25%
Taking full advantage of an awful Houston Texans pass defense last week, Cassel could be in for another excellent game this week against a nearly just as awful Jaguars secondary this week. 200-250 passing yards and 1-2 touchdowns is definitely possible for Cassel in this game.

Josh Freeman - TB = StL / 22%
A tough game last week for Freeman and the Buccaneers offense, but there is still plenty of potential for Freeman to be a quality starting QB in all fantasy football league formats this week. At under 25% owned, Freeman is a solid QB who should easily be available in your league if you need a spot starter this week.

Matt Hasselbeck - Sea = Ari / 26%
With a finally healthy offensive line blocking for him, Hasselbeck had plenty of time to pick apart the Chicago Bears defense last week. Now with a matchup against an Arizona Cardinals defense that is worse than the Bears, and the writing is on the wall for Hasselbeck once again putting up useful stats for fantasy football teams if needed this week.

Sam Bradford - StL = @TB / 41%
Excellent matchup for Bradford and the Rams offense this week. Bradford could easily perform surprisingly well and put up stats in the range of 250 passing yards and 1-2 touchdowns.

Colt McCoy - Cle = @NO / 3%
After hanging in their against the Pittsburgh Steelers defense last week, giving Colt McCoy
a looksee this week is not the worst thing you could do for your fantasy football team. On the upside, McCoy could be looking at stats in the range of 225 passing yards and 1 touchdown.


RUNNING BACK

Chris Ivory - NO = Cle / 11%
Topping the 100 rushing yard mark in last weeks game, Ivory faces a weak Cleveland Browns defense that will be keying on stopping Drew Brees and the Saints passing attack. Seems like an ideal matchup for Ivory, so fantasy football teams will want to take full advantage this week and start Ivory. 100 rushing yards and 1 touchdown is easily within reach for Ivory in this game. At around a ridiculously low 11% owned in 10 team leagues, Ivory is one starting running back that is sure to be available in your league.

BenJarvis Green-Ellis - NE = @SD / 55%
Taking over the goal line duties and being successful at scoring touchdowns when those opportunities arise, Green-Ellis should be considered a solid starting flex option in all fantasy football leagues right now. On the downside, the emergence of Danny Woodhead will take away some yards, but for fantasy purposes, the touchdowns should continue to tally up. 50 rushing yards and 1 touchdown is definitely possible.

Marshawn Lynch - Sea = Ari / 55%
Could be a breakout game for Lynch this week against a so-so Arizona Cardinals defense. At around just 50% owned, Lynch is a solid pickup and start this week, while also offering loads of long term potential as the season progresses for fantasy football teams.

Fred Jackson - Buf = @Bal / 51%
Much like Marshawn Lynch, this could be Jackson's breakout game as the Bills starter. That is assuming CJ Spiller does not receive the majority of the carries.

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Week 7 - Waiver Wire Pickups
Justin Forsett - Sea = Ari / 52%
Even with Marshawn Lynch
in the backfield last week, Forsett still received his fair share of touches. And better yet, Forsett was very efficient and successful when he did get the ball in his hands. So if you are looking for a solid flex option, Forsett and his matchup against a so-so Arizona run defense should be spot starter worthy for your team this week.

Danny Woodhead - NE = @SD / 17%
Seemingly gaining more and more trust in the Patriots offense, Woodhead has turned into an almost do-everything type of player. So seeing that Woodhead can run the ball and catch the ball equally well, he should continue to be good for numbers in the range of 25-50 rushing yards and 25-50 receiving yards per game. Add in some touchdown potential, and Woodhead is a solid starting flex option.

LaGarrett Blount - TB = StL / 5%
With Carnell Williams just too slow to be an everydown back, and Kareem Huggins out with a knee injury, Blount should be the default running back in Tampa Bay this week. At just 5% owned, Blount is one RB who offers starter potential in the upcoming weeks. Grab him now if you are looking for an RB that could hit it big.


WIDE RECEIVER

Deion Branch - NE = @SD / 31%
So much for needing a week or two to reconnect with Tom Brady. Branch looks like an excellent mid-season WR pickup for fantasy football teams right now. After Wes Welker, it looks like Branch will easily become Brady's next best passing option. 50-75 receiving yards is likely in this game for Branch. However, more importantly for fantasy football teams, the long term season potential is what fantasy football teams will want to gamble on if they are considering picking up Branch this week.

Mike Williams - TB = StL / 61%
Solid matchup and being the #1 receiving option in the offense helps too. At around 61% owned, Williams is available in more leagues than what he should be.

Derrick Mason - Bal = Buf / 62%
Outstanding matchup could have Mason nearing the 100 receiving yard mark again this week, and a touchdown is easily within reach as well.

Mike Williams - Sea = Ari / 8%
Broke out with a huge game last week against a solid Chicago Bears defense, and if Matt Hasselbeck can continue to get time in the pocket to pass again this week, then Williams could be looking at putting up excellent PPR numbers. 5-10 receptions and 50-100 receiving yards is very possible, and a touchdown is not out of the equation either.

Lance Moore - NO = Cle / 56%
Mr. Touchdown in New Orleans' passing attack, Moore easily has another opportunity to score again this week.

Jabar Gaffney - Den = Oak / 50%

With Eddie Royal injured, more receptions should be in store for Gaffney in this game. Add in the fact that the Raiders best cover guy Nnamdi Asomugha will likely be on Brandon Lloyd, and it seems reasonable to think that Gaffney could put up huge stats in this game.

Patrick Crayton - SD = NE / 4%
If either Malcom Floyd or Antonio Gates are out for this game, Crayton should cash in against what has been a very weak New England pass defense.

Robert Meachem - NO = Cle / 42%
A matchup against the Browns means anyone wearing a Saints uniform has the potential to score a TD.....and yes that does include defensive players also...

Steve Johnson - Buf = @Bal / 31%
Easily putting up better stats than Lee Evans, Johnson has been Fitzpatrick's number one option in the passing game so far. Not to mention a favorite in the red zone for touchdowns. However with that said, this is not a very good matchup for Johnson, or Fitzpatrick being able to get him the ball.

Danario Alexander - StL = @TB / 1%
Assuming his knee holds up, this could easily be another solid game for Alexander. At 6'5" Alexander is oozing with potential if he can just stay healthy.

TIGHT END

Tony Moeaki - KC = Jac / 32%
Having Dwayne Bowe breakout with a huge game last week was encouraging for the Chiefs passing game, and if you look below the surface, having a receiver like Bowe playing well and demanding defenses attention, the quarterback friendly Moeaki should actually see even more open space in the secondary. Combine in a matchup against a terrible Jaguars pass defense, and Moeaki should be a top 5 scoring fantasy football TE this week. 50-100 receiving yards is likely, and a touchdown is absolutely within reach as well.

John Carlson - Sea = Ari / 48%
Solid matchup for the Seahawks passing attack, and Carlson could have a breakout game. Target him if you are looking for a waiver wire pickup and starting replacement for either Dallas Clark or Dustin Keller this week.

Kellen Winslow - TB = StL / 69%
Pretty good matchup for the Buccanneers offense, but the Rams defense has been playing better than anyone could have excepted.

Aaron Hernandez - NE = @SD / 59%

Hernandez's role should continue to grow in the Patriots offense.

Todd Heap - Bal = Buf / 38%
Excellent matchup makes Heap a solid spot starter this week.

Andrew Quarless - GB = Min / 3%
With Jermichael Finley out for the year, the starting TE job is Quarless' to lose. And anytime you have a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers throwing you the ball, you have to believe that your chances of getting some passes your way is pretty good.


KICKER

Matt Prater - Den = Oak / 49%
Mike Nugent - Cin = @Atl / 31%
Garrett Hartley - NO = Cle / 40%
Jeff Reed - Pit = @Mia / 32%
Ryan Succop - KC = Jac / 15%
Josh Brown - StL = @TB / 5%

DEFENSE

San Francisco 49ers = @Car / 63%
Seattle Seahawks = Ari / 32%
Denver Broncos = Oak / 9%
Atlanta Falcons = Cin / 39%
St. Louis Rams = @TB / 11%

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Receiver Deion Branch has been one of the top pickups off fantasy football waiver wires all across the Internet this week since he went to New England. With Randy Moss shipped out to Minnesota, Branch should be a great addition to any fantasy team.
But the guy flying under the radar is Seattle receiver Mike Williams. This guy is still available on many waiver wires and you're missing the boat if you need a receiver and don't pick him up. I added him in three leagues where he was available. Although the Seahawks added Brandon Stokely it will be Williams given the No. 1 WR status. Coach Pete Carroll has gone on the record to say so.

Be advised that Seattle will be an interesting team fantasy-wise from here on out. Pieces are falling into place to make Seattle fantasy relevant again. The addition of back Marshawn Lynch takes some pressure off QB Matt Hasselbeck and the receivers, including tight end John Carlson.
If you're in a points-per-reception league, grab Williams if he's out there.

Other tight ends to add if you need a productive one are Pittsburgh's Heath Miller and Kansas City's Tony Moeaki. Miller has been quiet this season. But the return of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger makes Miller extremely valuable. I see at least 50-60 yards and a touchdown for him in Week 6. As far as Moeaki, he is leading the Chiefs in receptions and has produced well.

Call me crazy, but keep an eye on Colt McCoy starting for Cleveland in Week 6. All this guy did in college was win games and he will be pumped for this despite going up against the tough Pittsburgh D. The Steelers will likely win but the Browns will be competitive with McCoy under center.

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QUARTERBACKS
Chad Henne, Miami Dolphins – Henne now has averaged 300 yards passing and two touchdowns over his last three starts. In Week Seven Henne hosts the same Pittsburgh defense that allowed 283 yards passing and a score to Colt McCoy in his first NFL start. The Steelers terrorized the rookie recording five sacks and two interceptions so don’t expect smooth sailing with Henne. Henne has plenty of offensive weapons at his disposal including Brandon Marshall. Henne is available in 37% of ESPN leagues and 57% of Yahoo! leagues.

Colt McCoy, Cleveland Browns – Setting aside the sacks and interceptions, McCoy looked decent in Pittsburgh. His top three receivers were his two tight ends and running back so he was using his safety valves effectively. He ended the day completing 70% of his passes for 281 yards and a score in his first NFL start. He put up more fantasy points in Week Six than Philip Rivers, Tom Brady and Brett Favre. McCoy travels to New Orleans in Week Seven and we will be monitoring his progress closely. The rookie is available in 99% of ESPN leagues and 98% of Yahoo! leagues.

RUNNING BACKS
Chris Ivory, New Orleans Saints – The undrafted rookie torched a Tampa Bay defense that was constantly on its heels on Sunday. Ivory turned 16 touches into 175 yards. Ivory has competition when Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush return from injury and is sharing touches with Julius Jones and Ladell Betts. Ivory has considerable upside but he is in a very competitive backfield. New Orleans hosts Cleveland in Week Seven and Ivory is available in 98% of ESPN leagues and 91% of Yahoo! leagues.

Danny Woodhead, New England Patriots – Woodhead appears to be filling in with Kevin Faulk out for the season. Woodhead led the Patriots in touches with 16 for 115 yards. The former Jet has already sat out his bye week and has wide receiver and running back eligibility in both Yahoo! and ESPN. New England travels to San Diego in Week Seven and Woodhead is available in 94% of ESPN leagues and 84% of Yahoo! leagues.

Jerome Harrison, Philadelphia Eagles – Harrison was swapped for Mike Bell this week and would immediately have value if LeSean McCoy aggravates his rib injury. He is still nursing a thigh injury and was inactive against Atlanta in Week Six. Philadelphia travels to Tennessee in Week Seven and Harrison is available in 39% of ESPN leagues and 68% of Yahoo! leagues.

WIDE RECEIVERS
Deion Branch, New England Patriots – Picking up right where they left off, Brady to Branch connected on nine passes for 98 yards and a score. With Randy Moss in Minnesota, Branch has incredible upside. Branch travels to San Diego in Week Seven and is available in 88% of ESPN leagues and 71% of Yahoo! leagues.

Mike Williams, Seattle Seahawks – Williams caught ten passes for 123 yards against Chicago this week. This outburst nearly matches his totals for the previous four weeks but Seattle does have a favorable schedule ahead. Seattle plays Arizona twice and travels to Oakland over the next four weeks and Williams is available in 54% of ESPN leagues and 93% of Yahoo! leagues.

Patrick Crayton, San Diego Chargers – The Chargers suffered game ending injuries to top targets, Antonio Gates and Malcolm Floyd on Sunday. Crayton was able to step up and record six receptions for 117 yards. If either or both receivers miss addition time, Crayton will see a huge increase in targets. San Diego hosts New England in Week Seven and Crayton is available in 99% of ESPN leagues and 97% of Yahoo! leagues.

TIGHT ENDS
Owen Daniels, Houston Texans – Daniels finally posted a solid game after last season’s knee injury. The big tight end caught five passes for 79 yards against Kansas City and has a bye week to rest before traveling to Indianapolis in an important divisional rivalry game. Consider stashing Daniels now as he is available in 42% of ESPN leagues and 52% of Yahoo! leagues.

Todd Heap, Baltimore Ravens – Heap caught 3 passes for 49 yards and a score against New England in Week Six. This was his first score this season but he is a warm body during the bye weeks and hosts the winless Buffalo Bills in Week Seven. Heap is available in 79% of ESPN leagues and 62% of Yahoo! leagues.

DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS
Seattle Seahawks – Seattle has played well all season with the exception of the Denver game. They have scored fantasy points in every way imaginable including a safety and six sacks in Week Six against the Bears. They host Arizona and then travel to Oakland in two extremely favorable matchups and are available in 58% of ESPN leagues and 70% of Yahoo! leagues.

San Francisco – The 49ers will travel to Carolina with some momentum after finally notching a victory in 2010. They limited Oakland to just three field goals in Week Six and recorded two sacks and two interceptions. San Francisco is available in 43% of ESPN leagues and 37% of Yahoo! leagues.

KICKERS
Garrett Hartley, New Orleans Saints – The kicker controversy continues in New Orleans and it is again Hartley’s job to lose. John Carney has been cut and Hartley is the man once again. He missed a field goal attempt but New Orleans offense was back on track racking up 31 points against Tampa Bay. Hartley faces Cleveland at home in Week Seven and is available in 47% of ESPN leagues and 61% of Yahoo! Leagues.

Jeff Reed, Pittsburgh Steelers – Ben Roethlisberger is back behind center and will give Reed many more scoring opportunities. The Steelers scored four touchdowns against Cleveland but have three straight road games ahead where field goals will be critical. Reed is available in 77% of ESPN leagues and 67% of Yahoo! leagues.

[Bobtheicon]

Thanks again for posting BCB. Great info here. Good luck this weekend.

[bcbadgalz]

Week 7 could end up being a difficult time for wide receivers. Between injuries and bye weeks, you might be starting players you never expected to have on your roster.

The wide receivers on a bye this week include Andre Johnson, Calvin Johnson, Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie, Pierre Garcon, Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes. Along with those standout Fantasy options, we also could be missing DeSean Jackson (concussion), Malcom Floyd (hamstring), Eddie Royal (groin) and Carolina's Steve Smith (ankle).

It's not easy to replace wide receivers of that caliber in the majority of leagues, but there could be some options available on the waiver wire to help. And the first place to start, as we pointed out last week, is in New England with Deion Branch stepping in to help replace the departed Randy Moss.


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In Branch's first game back with the Patriots and Tom Brady since 2005 on Sunday against Baltimore he had nine catches for 98 yards and a touchdown on 12 targets. He is only owned in 53 percent of leagues on CBSSports.com and looks like he will be a vital part of the passing game for the rest of the season. He is worth starting in Week 7 at San Diego.

Replacing Branch in Seattle will likely be a handful of wide receivers with Mike Williams, Deon Butler, Golden Tate and Brandon Stokley, but Williams and Butler have the most value based on their first game without Branch on Sunday at Chicago. Williams had 10 catches for 123 yards on 15 targets, and Butler had four catches for 47 yards and a touchdown. These are the starting receivers for the Seahawks and are worth adding.

Williams is only owned in 17 percent of leagues while Butler is owned in 5 percent of leagues. Seattle has a favorable matchup in Week 7 against Arizona, and we consider Williams a potential starter in standard leagues, with Butler an option in deeper formats.

San Diego needs plenty of help at wide receiver with Floyd and Legedu Naanee (hamstring) injured along with tight end Antonio Gates (toe) potentially out. Two replacements for your Fantasy team could be Patrick Crayton (6 percent) and Buster Davis (1 percent). On Sunday at St. Louis when Floyd and Gates were injured, Crayton had six catches for 117 yards on seven targets, and Davis had three catches for 39 yards and a touchdown on eight targets. CBS analyst Steve Beuerlein said on Fantasy Football Today heading into the game that Davis was a sleeper against the Rams.

This week, the Chargers play host to New England, which has struggled in pass defense, and you can expect Philip Rivers to keep throwing even without his top targets. That makes Crayton and Davis attractive in all leagues.

In Philadelphia, if Jackson is out as expected then Jason Avant (3 percent) is worth a look in deeper leagues. He had five catches for 62 yards Sunday against Atlanta and would start opposite Jeremy Maclin.

The Rams also are looking for help at wide receiver with Mark Clayton (knee) out for the year. Danny Amendola (67 percent) still might have the most value long-term, but he struggled Sunday against the Chargers with three catches for 19 yards on five targets. Rookie Danario Alexander, however, was a star for the Rams with four catches for 72 yards and a touchdown. Alexander (0 percent) is coming off knee surgery and this was his first NFL game, so add him now if you have the space, otherwise just continue to monitor his progress to see if he can do this again.

Other receivers worth adding this week based on their recent play or role in the offense that should be available include Kenny Britt (70 percent), Derrick Mason (62 percent), Louis Murphy (63 percent), Davone Bess (56 percent), Steve Johnson (56 percent), Robert Meachem (47 percent), Mike Thomas (28 percent) and Anthony Armstrong (12 percent). Of this group, we're fond of Britt (four touchdowns in his past four games), Mason (100 yards in Week 6 against the Patriots and a favorable matchup in Week 7 against Buffalo), Bess (two touchdowns in his past two games), Johnson (four touchdowns in his past three games) and Meachem (two touchdowns in his past two games and a favorable matchup in Week 7 against Cleveland).

Demaryius Thomas (35 percent) scored a touchdown Sunday against the Jets on Darrelle Revis and would see an increase in value if Royal is out, but the Broncos haven't used him much recently and still have Brandon Lloyd and Jabar Gaffney. And Michael Jenkins (7 percent) also returned from a shoulder injury Sunday at Philadelphia and had five catches for 99 yards, but he's been inconsistent throughout his career and isn't worth trusting.

In case you haven't noticed ... This could be a rough week for tight ends also as we'll address below with Gates and Chris Cooley (concussion) injured and Dallas Clark, Dustin Keller, Owen Daniels, Brandon Pettigrew and Tony Scheffler on a bye. That means you might need a quality tight end, and Heath Miller (57 percent) is worth adding in all leagues now that Ben Roethlisberger is back. Miller had two catches for 50 yards and a touchdown against Cleveland in Week 6 and was targeted four times. He has a favorable matchup this week at Miami and is worth using as a No. 1 option.

Each Tuesday we will highlight players who might be available in your league and whether you should consider picking them up off waivers based on their recent performances. The players chosen are based on the percentage of ownership in CBSSports.com leagues.

Quarterbacks ...
Add 'Em
Matt Cassel, Kansas City
Owned: 54 percent of leagues
Week 6: Completed 20 of 29 passes for 201 yards, three touchdowns and one interception at Houston.
Analysis: Cassel took advantage of a great matchup against the Texans and has another great matchup this week with the Jaguars. He is worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy quarterback this week, especially with Peyton Manning, Matt Schaub and Mark Sanchez on a bye. Cassel finally got Dwayne Bowe involved and has a quality tight end in Tony Moeaki, and he's worth trusting as your starter based on last week's performance.

Avoid 'Em
Tim Tebow, Denver
Owned: 5 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had six carries for 23 yards and a touchdown against the Jets.
Analysis: Tebow is only worth owning in deep keeper leagues, and don't get excited about his touchdown run thinking he's going to start getting increased playing time. At best he'll get a handful of red-zone carries, and while he could score a couple of touchdowns, he's not going to emerge as a quality Fantasy quarterback. His only value this year will be if Kyle Orton gets injured, but Orton looks firmly entrenched as the starter for the rest of the season.

Scout 'Em
Matthew Stafford, Detroit
Owned: 44 percent of leagues
Week 6: Did not play.
Analysis: Stafford hasn't played since hurting his shoulder in Week 1 at Chicago, but with Shaun Hill (broken left arm) out and the bye in Week 7, we should see Stafford in Week 8 against Washington. Hill has done a solid job replacing Stafford (three games with more than 24 Fantasy points in five starts), but it could have been Stafford posting all those stats if he was healthy. If you need a starter in Week 8 then add Stafford now with the expectation that he'll be ready to go after the bye week since he should be close to 100 percent.

Running backs ...
Add 'Em
Justin Forsett, Seattle
Owned: 66 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had 10 carries for 67 yards and a touchdown and one catch for 9 yards at Chicago.
Analysis: The thought was Forsett would fade into the background with Marshawn Lynch now in Seattle. Far from it. Forsett was used in tandem with Lynch and played a lot on third down and in passing situations. He's a great change-of-pace rusher from Lynch, and the Seahawks will likely try to get him 10-15 touches each week. Forsett could still be a useful option as a starter in deeper leagues, and the Seahawks have favorable matchups ahead with the Cardinals and Raiders in back-to-back games.

Danny Woodhead, New England
Owned: 35 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had 11 carries for 63 yards and five catches for 52 yards against Baltimore.
Analysis: Woodhead is the new Kevin Faulk meets Wes Welker meets the type of unique player the Patriots love to use in a variety of ways. All you should care about is the production since he has three games in a row with double digits in Fantasy points since coming to New England. The Patriots will use Woodhead in tandem with BenJarvus Green-Ellis, and he's the type of player you should stash on your bench. And if he continues to produce at this level there's no reason he can't crack your starting lineup as at least a flex option.

Chris Ivory, New Orleans
Owned: 29 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had 15 carries for 158 yards and one catch for 17 yards at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: I had Ivory as a sleeper in my blog heading into the game with the Bucs because even though Julius Jones was added last week, Ivory still had the most potential of the Saints' running backs with Pierre Thomas (ankle) and Reggie Bush (leg) out. Thomas and Bush don't appear to be returning any time soon, so Ivory will continue to share carries with Ladell Betts and possibly Jones. We still like Ivory's upside, and he has a favorable matchup in Week 7 against Cleveland.

Avoid 'Em
Keiland Williams, Washington
Owned: 3 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had two carries for 12 yards and four catches for 19 yards and a touchdown against Indianapolis.
Analysis: Williams will serve as the No. 2 running back for the Redskins behind Ryan Torain with Clinton Portis (groin) out, but he should only be added in the majority of leagues if something happens to Torain. Williams is the third-down back for Washington, but he only has three carries on the season. Torain also gets the majority of playing time, and we don't see Williams being a useful Fantasy option for most owners barring another injury for the Redskins.

Scout 'Em
Mike Hart, Indianapolis
Owned: 48 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had 11 carries for 43 yards at Washington.
Analysis: We had Hart as an add last week, but that was with the uncertain status for Joseph Addai (shoulder) and Donald Brown (hamstring). Addai was able to play against the Redskins, but he re-injured his shoulder. The Colts are on a bye in Week 7, but if Addai can't play in Week 8 against Houston and Brown remains out then Hart will be a must-add again. You'll just have to continue to monitor what happens prior to the game with the Texans.

James Starks, Green Bay
Owned: 8 percent of leagues
Week 6: Did not play.
Analysis: We'll likely keep Starks in this spot for the next couple of weeks until we find out when he can return, but he was cleared to practice this week after starting the season on the PUP list. The Packers are still struggling to run the ball with Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn, and Starks could help ignite the ground game with Ryan Grant (ankle) out for the season. If the practice reports are promising you'll see Starks' ownership start to rise.

Tight end ...
Add 'Em
Todd Heap, Baltimore
Owned: 36 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had three catches for 49 yards and a touchdown at New England.
Analysis: Heap has struggled since a solid game in Week 1 at the Jets when he had six catches for 72 yards. Since then he's combined for 12 catches for 138 yards, and his touchdown against the Patriots was his first of the season. But you have to hope that's something to build on heading into Week 7 against Buffalo, which has been the worst team against opposing tight ends with five touchdowns allowed this season. Consider Heap a quality starter with all the tight ends who are off or injured this week.

Benjamin Watson, Cleveland
Owned: 16 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had six catches for 88 yards and a touchdown at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Watson just continues to produce for the Browns, and he enters Week 7 as the No. 9 tight end in standard scoring leagues. He has a favorable matchup this week against the Saints, who have allowed 38 catches, 425 yards and two touchdowns to opposing tight ends. Colt McCoy should continue to rely on Watson, and he's worth adding in all leagues this week. The Browns need help at receiver, and Watson is doing his best to fill the void

Avoid 'Em
Donald Lee, Green Bay
Owned: 15 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had no catches against Miami.
Analysis: Between Andrew Quarless (15 percent) and Lee the Packers will likely use both to help replace Jermichael Finley (knee). Lee still has value going forward based on his experience, but he might have rushed back too soon from the chest injury to face the Dolphins. For now, just monitor Lee's development and see how Quarless does before adding either. The Packers could always just rely on their receivers with James Jones and Jordy Nelson helping to fill the void at tight end.

Scout 'Em
Fred Davis, Washington
Owned: 4 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had three catches for 23 yards against Indianapolis.
Analysis: If Cooley is ruled out for this week then add Davis immediately. Last year, when Cooley was out with a broken ankle, Davis had 48 catches for 509 yards and six touchdowns, and you can expect Donovan McNabb to find him at the same clip he targets Cooley, which is almost eight times a game. We would consider Davis a starting Fantasy option in standard leagues against the Bears in Week 7 if he's named the starter.

Randy McMichael, San Diego
Owned: 0 percent of leagues
Week 6: Had no catches at St. Louis.
Analysis: The Chargers could be without Gates this week, which would allow McMichael to become a factor in the passing game. He's by no means on Gates' level, but McMichael did have at least 60 catches for three seasons in a row from 2004-06 with the Dolphins. Philip Rivers might lean on McMichael with all the injuries to San Diego's receiving corps, so keep an eye on Gates' status heading into Week 7 against the Patriots.

[bcbadgalz]

Originally Posted by Bobtheicon

Thanks again for posting BCB. Great info here. Good luck this weekend.

Thanks for being nice bobtheicon!