Waiver Wire Work for Week #6

[bcbadgalz]

Here are some early articles to browse from this morning.
I will add a few more later this afternoon...Enjoy the reading and Best wishes!

Fantasy Football Waiver Work for NFL Week #6:

Week 6 is on the horizon and the 2010 football season is hitting its stride. Some fantasy football owners are off to a nice start and heading toward playoff contention, while others might have to settle for being the spoiler and looking ahead to 2011. Week 5 had its share of injuries that might have you looking for a replacement or two for your roster. It also brought new fantasy relevant players to our attention and a few seasoned vets reclaimed their fantasy football value. Whatever your situation you happen to be in, keep in mind that there is a lot of football to be played – don’t count yourself out of contention too soon or rest on your early season laurels. With that in mind, here are Bruno Boys Fantasy Football’s recommendations for Week 6 Waiver Wire “Pick Them Ups.”


QUARTERBACKS - PICK THEM UP

Josh Freeman (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Freeman had a solid day on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals, as he went 20-for-33 for 280 yards with one touchdown and one interception. He also rushed three times s for 20 yards in the Buccaneers’ victory. He has put up 15 or more fantasy points in three out of four games this season, and his running ability enhances his fantasy potential. While Tampa Bay will never be confused with a high-octane offense, Freeman has a decent array of weapons around him (TE Kellen Winslow, WR Mike Williams) along with a deep running back corps. His upcoming schedule (New Orleans, St. Louis, Arizona) is also somewhat favorable; therefore Freeman is worth considering if you’re in a need of a QB2. Freeman is currently available in 82 percent of Yahoo! leagues, and he has already had his bye week.

Jason Campbell (Oakland Raiders)

Campbell replaced an injured Bruce Gradkowski (right shoulder) in Week 5 against the San Diego Chargers, and went 13-for-18 for 159 yards and a touchdown. If Gradkowski is unable to go in Week 6 against a San Francisco 49ers defense that has allowed 25 or more points in all but one game, Campbell could make for a sneaky play. On top of that, if Gradkowski were to miss significant time, Campbell would have an attractive matchup against the Denver Broncos in Week 7. Keep an eye on Gradkowski’s prognosis as the week goes on, however, if he is ruled out for Sunday and you are in a pinch at quarterback take a gamble on the sixth year pro out of Auburn. After all, the 49ers have made just about every NFL quarterback look like a Pro Bowler this year (sans Matt Ryan.) Campbell is best suited as a QB2 in a 12-team or 14-team fantasy football leagues

Quarterbacks Watch List: David Garrard (Jacksonville Jaguars), Ryan Fitzpatrick (Buffalo Bills), Max Hall (Arizona Cardinals)

RUNNING BACKS - PICK THEM UP

Brandon Jacobs (New York Giants)

Jacobs scored for the second straight game in Week 5, as he has taken advantage of Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) being a little banged up to take a role in the Giants’ backfield. He has seen an increased role over the last two weeks with 16 carries after having just eight carries over the previous two weeks, which likely led to him being dropped in a lot of leagues. As long as Bradshaw is banged up, Jacobs should see some carries and should see a decent amount of goal line work as well. If bye weeks will hurt you at running back over the next few weeks, he is worth consideration in all league formats, but particularly touchdown-heavy leagues. Jacobs is currently available in over half of Yahoo! leagues.


Mike Hart (Indianapolis Colts)

Hart took advantage of Joseph Addai leaving Week 5 with a shoulder issue to score a touchdown along with 50 yards on 11 carries against the Kansas City Chiefs. Also Donald Brown (hamstring) has been inactive the last two weeks, so Hart could become the Colts’ primary ball carrier if Addai and Brown are unable to play in Week 6 against the Washington Redskins or if both guys are limited in the game. Do keep an eye on the prognosis for Addai and Brown as this week goes along before considering Hart, but he should be available in virtually all leagues if you’re inclined to add him.

Running Backs Watch List: Earnest Graham (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Derrick Ward (Houston Texans), Deji Karim (Jacksonville Jaguars), Chester Taylor (Chicago Bears)

WIDE RECEIVERS - PICK THEM UP

Danny Amendola (St. Louis Rams)

With Mark Clayton (right knee) now out for the season, the Rams now find themselves a little shallow at wide receiver. Clayton’s injury stands to open up an opportunity for Amendola to emerge as quarterback Sam Bradford’s top target. He had 12 receptions (19 targets) for 95 yards against the Detroit Lions in Week 5, and has at least five receptions in all but one game so far this season. This is good news for fantasy football owners, as it’s a true indicator that Amendola already seems to have some rapport with the rookie signal caller. Amendola is not particularly explosive, as his yards per catch can attest, but he could be a very nice option in PPR leagues if you’re in need of a wide receiver. If he can start to find the end zone on a regular basis down the road, he could also become worth considering in standard formats at some point as well.

Mike Williams (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Williams had seven receptions for 99 yards and a touchdown in Week 5 against the Cincinnati Bengals, as he continues to be a primary target for quarterback Josh Freeman. The rookie from Syracuse should continue to produce solidly over the next few games, as some potentially favorable matchups could be coming in Week 6 against the New Orleans Saints and Week 7 against the St. Louis Rams. Williams should be available in a fair amount of leagues, and is ownable as a WR3 and a bye-week fill-in 10 and 12-team formats.

Mike Thomas (Jacksonville Jaguars)

Thomas had four catches for 53 yards along with four rush attempts for 51 yards against the Buffalo Bills in Week 5. He now has at least four receptions in but one game this year, as well as at least 43 receiving yards in four out of five games. Jacksonville has a run-oriented offense and quarterback David Garrard is fairly inconsistent so far this season, but Thomas seems to be a reliable target and could be usable as a bye week replacement in Week 7 against a Tennessee Titans’ defense that has struggled against the pass over the last few weeks. He is available in 13 percent of Yahoo! leagues right now, so if you find yourself in need of a wide receiver Thomas could be a solid option.

Steve Johnson (Buffalo Bills)

Johnson had five catches for 46 yards and two touchdowns in Week 5 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, which now gives him four touchdowns over the last three games. He seems to have good chemistry with quarterback Ryan Fitpatrick, and there’s no reason to think that can’t continue after the Bills’ bye in Week 6. Buffalo’s schedule will get a bit tougher after their bye (Baltimore, Kansas City, Chicago), but Johnson is worth considering in 12-team leagues if you’re in real need for a wide receiver. Just remember you’ll have to stash him until Week 7.

Wide Receivers Watch List: Robert Meachem (New Orleans Saints), Nate Burleson (Detroit Lions), Roscoe Parrish (Buffalo Bills) James Jones (Green Bay Packers), Anthony Armstrong (Washington Redskins), Michael Spurlock (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

TIGHT ENDS - PICK THEM UP

Jeremy Shockey (New Orleans Saints)

Shockey had three receptions for 30 yards and a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 5, which gives him 17 catches for 166 yards and two touchdowns over the last three weeks. Perhaps not coincidentally, his rise in production has come with running back Reggie Bush (leg) out as he has once again become a target for Drew Brees. His lack of production over the first two weeks along with his tendency to be injured by this point in the season most of the time may have led to many fantasy owners dropping Shockey. As long as he can remain healthy, Shockey is worth adding as a TE2 and is a solid potential bye week fill-in while Bush is out.

Tight Ends Watch List: Andrew Quarless (Green Bay Packers), Ed Dickson (Baltimore Ravens), Ben Patrick (Arizona Cardinals)

KICKERS - PICK THEM UP

Jason Hanson (Detroit Lions)

Hanson has put up 16 fantasy points in each of the past two weeks as the Lions’ offense has been able to move the ball quite well. The veteran gets a matchup in Week 6 against the New York Giants, who entered Week 5 having allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing kickers (8.8 per game). So if your regular kicker has a particularly stifling matchup or you need a bye week replacement Hanson is worthy of consideration. As for his longer range prospects, the pending return of quarterback Matt Stafford (right shoulder) stands to keep the Lions’ offense fairly productive and give Hanson enough opportunities to stay fantasy relevant.

Kickers Watch List: David Buehler (Dallas Cowboys), Josh Scobee (Jacksonville Jaguars), Jay Feely (Arizona Cardinals), Graham Gano (Washington Redskins), Josh Brown (St. Louis Rams)

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QUARTERBACKS — CUT THEM LOOSE

With bye weeks taking place over the next five weeks it’s tough to find a quarterback that was cut worthy after Week 5, however, if you are the owner of guys on our “Watch List” make sure to monitor closely. With Brett Favre getting a new toy in Randy Moss it should help his fantasy football stock, however, until he proves us wrong he will stick on this list. Also, make sure to see what happens to Bruce Gradkowski in Oakland. If he misses anytime because of injury it’s probably best to dump him from your roster. While a good player, he isn’t an impact player that you waste a roster spot on while he recovers. Finally, Carson Palmer has had no trouble tossing touchdown passes the last two weeks, however, he has been turnover prone and this has hindered his fantasy value. A few more bad games and he might find himself on your leagues’ waiver wire.


Cut Them Loose Watch List: Brett Favre (Minnesota Vikings), Bruce Gradkowski (Oakland Raiders), Carson Palmer (Cincinnati Bengals)

Keep Them Cut List: Derek Anderson (Arizona Cardinals), Trent Edwards (Jacksonville Jaguars), Matt Hasselbeck (Seattle Seahawks), Alex Smith (San Francisco 49ers)


RUNNING BACKS — CUT THEM LOOSE

Donald Brown (Indianapolis Colts)

Indianapolis Colts running back Donald Brown was a hot pick up after his Week 2 performance against the New York Giants when he rushed for 69 yards and a touchdown and had 19 receiving yards. With starter Joseph Addai dealing with a minor knee injury Brown stood to receive constant double-digit touches, yet in Week 3 he rushed just seven times for 12 yards and he’s missed the last two games since then with a hamstring injury. In the Colts’ win over the Kansas City Chiefs last week it was Mike Hart on backup duty, and he produced when called upon, rushing 11 times for 50 yards and a touchdown. Despite all this, Brown is still owned by almost 65 percent of the teams out there. Why? If you’re holding onto him, hoping for an Addai injury or a few more touches then it’s time to let him go.


Tim Hightower (Arizona Cardinals)

In the first two weeks of the season the Arizona Cardinals relied on Tim Hightower in the running game as Beanie Wells was recovering from a minor knee injury. Wells returned for a Week 3 win over the Oakland Raiders and rushed 14 times for 75 yards, while Hightower rushed 11 times for 40 yards. In a Week 4 loss to the San Diego Chargers Hightower rushed just seven times, and in last week’s win over the New Orleans Saints he ran the ball only four times. Though Wells wasn’t too effective against the Saints, he carried the ball 20 times. See the pattern here? Wells is getting the majority of the touches now that he’s healthy, and Hightower has become an afterthought. Plus, following the loss to the Chargers, Wells vented his frustration to reporters about receiving just five carries in that game. Instead of a trip to the doghouse, Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt gave Wells the ball 20 times in the next game. He’s going to be a big factor in the Cardinals’ running game going forward, and Hightower is only worth owning at this point if you have Wells and want to keep Hightower around in case of injury.

John Kuhn (Green Bay Packers)

An ankle injury in Week 1 ended the season for Green Bay Packers running back Ryan Grant. In his place stepped Brandon Jackson, and he ran for 63 yards in that Week 1 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. After that, however, Jackson was not too effective for the Green Bay running game. In the next three weeks after that he gained just 74 yards on 27 carries, good for a 2.7 average. At the same time, John Kuhn, a converted fullback, had 106 yards on 24 carries, which was a 4.4 average. Though Jackson ran the ball three more times, Kuhn was more effective and started to find himself on more and more fantasy teams. That’s changing after the Packers’ Week 5 loss to the Washington Redskins. In that game Jackson ran 10 times for 115 yards and a touchdown, and he caught five passes for 25 yards. At the same time Kuhn had five total touches for 17 yards. Kuhn may have looked good in Weeks 2, 3 and 4, but he’s still a fullback and Jackson is the running back. Kuhn won’t be completely shut out of the running game, but for now he holds no fantasy value.


Laurence Maroney (Denver Broncos)

To say Denver Broncos running back Laurence Maroney is struggling is an understatement. He started the season as a New England Patriot, but he had fallen out of favor with the organization. He was fourth on the depth chart behind Fred Taylor, BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Sammy Morris, and after the first week of the season he was traded to Denver with a sixth-round pick for a fourth-round pick. With the Broncos he’s averaging just 1.9 yards per carry and has no touchdowns, yet is still owned in more than 60 percent of leagues. He’s getting less touches week-by-week, and when Knowshon Moreno returns from his hamstring, Maroney will finally get what he deserves, a spot on the bench. Don’t hold out hope for Maroney, just cut him loose. It’s said to see his career go like this after he was such an amazing running back for the Minnesota Golden Golphers.

Jason Snelling (Atlanta Falcons)

One dominating game does not make a fantasy star, and that’s the case with Atlanta Falcons running back Jason Snelling. In the team’s Week 2 win over the Arizona Cardinals, Snelling rushed 24 times for 129 yards and two touchdowns, and he caught five passes for 57 yards and and a score. He was needed in that game because starter Michael Turner left with a groin injury. Turner returned for Week 3 and has played ever since. Snelling ran the ball 14 times in a Week 3 win over the New Orleans Saints, then in Weeks 4 and 5 he combined to run the ball 16 times. His only touchdowns came in Week 2, and as long as Turner is healthy and playing, then Snelling’s role is extremely limited. For Turner owners, we recommend keeping Snelling as insurance in case Turner gets hurt again. However, for those that don’t have Turner, it’s time to drop Snelling.


Cut Them Loose Watch List: Brandon Jackson (Green Bay Packers), Cadillac Williams (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Jonathan Stewart (Carolina Panthers), Marion Barber (Dallas Cowboys)

Keep Them Cut List: Fred Taylor (New England Patriots), Steve Slaton (Houston Texans), Jerome Harrison (Cleveland Browns), Darren Sproles (San Diego Chargers), Ricky Williams (Miami Dolphins)

WIDE RECEIVERS — CUT THEM LOOSE


Dwayne Bowe (Kansas City Chiefs)

Last week the Indianapolis Colts exposed the Kansas City Chiefs for what they really are. The Chiefs are good at times, but are still not a good team. Dwayne Bowe was supposed to be the top receiving option for the Chiefs but after four games that honor goes to rookie tight end Tony Moeaki. Moeaki has 16 receptions to Bowe’s nine. Altogether Bowe has just 152 receiving yards and one touchdown, and he’s not caught more than four passes in a game this season. Both Kansas City head coach Todd Haley and offensive guard Brian Waters criticized the Chiefs’ offensive execution to reporters after their loss to the Colts. The thing about the Chiefs is that while there’s a lot of nice pieces in place, it’s still a young team trying to come together. The passing game with quarterback Matt Cassel has produced just four touchdowns. Bowe is still a starter, and in some leagues that may hold some value, but for now he is not producing and it doesn’t appear that a magical turnaround for him is in sight.

Devery Henderson (New Orleans Saints)

The struggles of the New Orleans Saints can’t be attributed to any one player, but there are some consistencies arising. Wide receiver Devery Henderson is one of those. Because the Saints passing offense has been so prolific in recent years Henderson held some value as a third receiver because he had a knack for long touchdown catches and had a career year last year. Yet Henderson has caught just one touchdown this season and that came in a Week 1 win over the Minnesota Vikings. One of his best games this season came in last week’s loss to the Arizona Cardinals, and then he only caught four passes for 61 yards. Seven different players have double-digit receptions for New Orleans this season, so it’s clear they spread the ball around. Unfortunately, once the team gets inside the red zone Henderson does not factor much into the offense. Without the yards or touchdowns, Henderson does not hold hardly any value right now in standard leagues.


Cut Them Loose Watch List: Mike Sims-Walker (Jacksonville Jaguars), Chad Ocho Cinco (Cincinnati Bengals), Greg Jennings (Green Bay Packers), Dez Bryant (Dallas Cowboys). Johnny Knox (Chicago Bears)

Keep Them Cut List: T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Baltimore Ravens), Mike Williams (Seattle Seahawks), Bernard Berrian (Minnesota Vikings), Laurent Robinson (St. Louis Rams), Vincent Jackson (San Diego Chargers), Lee Evans (Buffalo Bills), Pierre Garcon (Indianapolis Colts), Legedu Naanee (San Diego Chargers), Demaryius Thomas (Denver Broncos)

TIGHT ENDS — CUT THEM LOOSE

Owen Daniels (Houston Texans)

Not only is Houston Texans quarterback Owen Daniels trying to come back from last year’s ACL injury, but now he’s trying to play with a hamstring injury. His best game so far came in last week’s loss to the New York Giants when he caught just three passes for 45 yards. He has yet to reach the end zone, and it’s now clear the Texans are handling him carefully so as not to risk another serious injury. It’s good that the Texans are being careful with him, but that’s not good for your fantasy football team. More than a quarter of the season has passed and Daniels has done nothing. Do something and cut him in favor of somebody who can produce right now.


Cut Them Loose Watch List: —NONE —

Keep Them Cut List: Todd Heap (Baltimore Ravens)

KICKERS — CUT THEM LOOSE

Though there are no kickers on the Cut Them Loose list this week, Mason Crosby of the Green Bay Packers is dangerously close to finding himself on the list soon. Considered one of the top kickers entering the season, Crosby has missed three of his last six field goal attempts, including the potential game-winner last week against the Washington Redskins. Given, that attempt was from 53 yards out and Crosby did hit the left upright. However, it’s very easy to replace kickers in fantasy football and right now Crosby, and the Packers offense, have been inconsistent. We’ll give him a break this time, but Crosby owners should pay extra attention to the status of Aaron Rodgers (concussion) in Week 6. Consider yourself warned.


Cut Them Loose Watch List: Mason Crosby (Green Bay Packers), Stephen Gostkowski (New England Patriots)

Keep Them Cut List: Ryan Longwell (Minnesota Vikings), Garrett Hartley (New Orleans Saints), Lawrence Tynes (New York Giants)

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Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Advice
NFL Week 6


Monday, October 11, 2010




Welcome to the Team (a.k.a. Pick-Up)
Willis McGahee, RB, BAL - McGahee is up to his old tricks and notched his second TD in as many weeks. While this famous Fantasy Football TD Vulture did snare a TD this week with a 30 yard scamper, it just shows he has taken his vulture game to new heights and won't be denied from anywhere on the field. McGahee ended the day with 10 rushes for 67 yards and a TD. It may be ugly, but it is serviceable for those in a pinch at RB, particularly with bye weeks on the slate.

Felix Jones, RB, DAL - There has been a lot of frustration in the fantasy community over the very slow start of Jones. He has been dropped in more than a few leagues out there and is immediately available for pick-up. If you find yourself in one of those leagues, grab Jones! He flashed some of the speed and illusiveness that had many licking their fantasy chops entering the season and finished with 109 rushing yards on 15 attempts. He also had 4 receptions for 17 yards. It was clear watching the game on Sunday that Dallas was committed to getting Jones more involved and identified that as one of the keys to trying to turn their season around. Jones also did a nice job blocking and laid a defender out on more than one occasion. The end result should spell more snaps for Jones moving forward.

Mike Hart, RB, IND - Addai was knocked out of the game and Hart showed he has plenty. He finished the day with 11 carries for 50 yards and a TD. He also tacked on one reception for five yards. His TD run was nothing but shear determination, and it is runs like that that get the attention of the coaching staff and his teammates. Who knows what develops moving forward, but momentum is swaying in Hart's direction. Only time well tell if it fizzles or leads to more opportunity.

Lee Evans, WR, BUF - Evans used to be a solid fantasy WR #2, but he has slipped a little in recent years. On Sunday, he flashed some of the speed that put him on the fantasy radar and pulled in 5 receptions for 87 yards and a TD. He did seem to show a little chemistry with QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, and you know the Bills will be playing from behind and forced to throw the ball all year long.

Steve Johnson, WR, BUF - This former Kentucky wideout is capitalizing on the opportunity left for him by the departure of Terrell Owens. Don't look now, but Johnson has 4 TDs in his last 3 games.

Danny Amendola, WR, STL - You can't help but be reminded of Wes Welker when watching Amendola play. He plays 150% and runs at a very high gear, capable of making cuts on a dime. Mark Clayton left with an injury, and Amendola was able to take advantage of that fact to develop further chemistry with his young QB. Amendola finished the day with 12 receptions (yes 12) for 95 yards. That is some serious chum that should attract all of you in point per reception leagues. Hey, he has our attention.

Robert Meachem, WR, NOR - We had a Meachem sighting on Sunday to the tune of 4 receptions for 72 yards and a TD. It was probably an isolated event that will be repeated in random sometime down the road, but on the other hand, we thought we would at least post as a little momentum sometimes can go a long way. Meachem was valuable last year for many teams out there playing in deep leagues with multiple WR requirements for the start, but it has taken until week 5 in 2010 before we have really seen anything from him this year. A healthy Lance Moore has gone a long way to playing a strong role in that fact.

Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, BUF - Wow, what has the world come to with so much Buffalo on this list. Like it or not, but there are teams out there that have started Fitzpatrick the past few weeks and have held their own. Fitzpatrick had another decent day at the office, tossing the rock for 220 yards and 3 TDs. Whether it is with his legs or through the air, Fitzpatrick manages to carve out enough fantasy points to warrant attention. As mentioned above, let's face it, the Bills are going to be playing from behind all year, which lends itself to a pass attack while playing in desperation, catch-up mode.

Shaun Hill, QB, DET - If you didn't capitalize on this last week, you may think about it this week. However, be forewarned as the shelf life on Hill looks to be expiring due to Stafford getting close to coming back. Regardless, keep 227 passing yards and 3 TDs in the back of your mind in the event Stafford is unable to return when expected.

Marcedes Lewis, TE, JAX - Just when you think Lewis has cooled off fantasy wise, he nails another 2 TD game. Five TDs in five games means you toss him in the line-up each week and take the good with the bad.

Robbie Gould, PK, CHI - Who knows what to make of the Bears as they got the job done this week beating the Panthers at their own game with a bruising ground attack. That sort of ball control lends itself to a lot of kicks, which helped spell a big day for Gould. Gould made 3 FGs and 2 PATs. Moving forward, the Bears are going to be tough for opposing defenses to figure out after flipping from a dynamic pass attack to a bruising ground attack. You can bet OC Mike Martz won't stray from the pass attack for long, but regardless, the mix could spell good things for Gould down the road as the Bears should have better success moving the ball and putting him in position to make kicks.

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Based on the depth of your league and the strengths and weaknesses of your particular team, here are some players worth consideration:

QB - Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bills (Nine-percent owned): Although the Bills are on a bye in Week 6, Fitzpatrick has been solid as a bye-week replacement over the past couple of weeks. Named the team's starter in Week 3, Fitzpatrick has thrown seven touchdowns and only two interceptions in that three-game span. In addition, he's rushed for 96 yards on 12 carries. And one thing's for sure: the Bills are bad and will likely be playing from behind in most games. Or is that two things?

RB - Ladell Betts, Saints (10%): With Pierre Thomas missing his second game in a row, Betts and Chris Ivory split carries again. In that past two games, Betts (23) has had one more carry than Ivory (22). In those two games, however, Betts has nine receptions for 49 yards in addition to his 91 rushing yards. Even if Thomas returns in Week 6, Betts is worth consideration in deeper leagues.

RB - Mike Hart, Colts (2%): In their win over the Chiefs, Hart scored the team's only touchdown and had fifty yards on 11 carries. Depending on the status of running backs Joseph Addai (shoulder) and Donald Brown (hamstring), Hart is worth a look. He would be a solid play against the Redskins if neither Addai or Brown goes this week.

RB - Deji Karim, Jaguars (0%): Karim, who had 15 carries for 70 yards against the Bills, is worth a look in deeper leagues. Stud running back Maurice Jones-Drew hurt his wrist in the game (although he continued to play) and backup running back Rashard Jennings was out this week so don't expect 70-yard games with those two backs healthy.

WR - Mike Williams, Bucs (48%): In Week 5, Williams had the best game of his rookie season -- seven receptions for 99 yards and a touchdown. On the season, Williams has 19 receptions for 238 yards and three touchdowns. In three of his four games, Williams has five-plus receptions. While he may not finish with his 16-game pace of 76 receptions for 952 yards and 12 touchdowns, he clearly is the preferred target of quarterback Josh Freeman.

WR - Kenny Britt, Titans (38%): Dubbed the "Question Mark" by his teammates for showing up to off-season workouts out of shape and for dropping too many balls, Britt has had a solid four weeks after catching no passes Week 1. Britt has 14 receptions for 176 yards during the four-game span while scoring a touchdown in each of his past three games. In Week 6, the Titans face the Jaguars, who have allowed the most fantasy points to opposing receivers.


WR - Steve Johnson, Bills (16%): Johnson takes a three-game scoring streak with him into the team's bye week. He has had three-plus receptions in all five of the team's games, which is no small feat as a Bills receiver. On the season, he has 17 receptions for 214 yards and four touchdowns -- all team highs. While no Bills receiver will be spectacular, they will likely find themselves in passing mode as they will trail often.

WR - Nate Burleson, Lions (6%): Last year, Burleson was on pace for a 1,000-yard season before suffering a season-ending injury with three weeks to go. This year, Burleson caught only two passes in two games before missing two games. He returned in Week 5 and caught four passes on six targets for 56 yards and a touchdown. Before today, Calvin Johnson was the only wide receiver to rank in the top four on the team in targets. That could change when Matthew Stafford returns from injury.

WR - James Jones, Packers (4%): Through five games, Jones has 24 targets and 15 receptions for 177 yards and touchdown. Jones is fourth on the team in targets behind receivers Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and tight end Jermichael Finley, who will miss three weeks (maybe more) after getting his knee scoped. With Finley out, Jones could be in line for a decent amount of targets.

WR - Anthony Armstrong, Redskins (1%): In his past two games, Armstrong only has four receptions (or one more than he had in the team's first three games). That said, he had a 57-yard reception last week and a 48-yard reception this week. His Week 6 performance -- three receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown on seven targets -- was clearly his best. At a minimum, he's worth keeping an eye on in deeper leagues.

TE - Tony Moeaki, Chiefs (24%): Moeaki has 16 receptions for 173 yards and two touchdowns through four games. He leads the team in all three categories and he's tied with Dwayne Bowe for the team lead in targets (23). Moeaki has been consistent with at least three receptions in all four of his games.

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QUARTERBACKS

Josh Freeman, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Freeman had 300 total yards and a touchdown at Cincinnati and limited his turnovers to a single interception. Freeman hosts New Orleans in Week Six and then has favorable upcoming matchups against St. Louis and Arizona. Freeman is available in 88% of ESPN leagues and 82% of Yahoo! leagues.

Shaun Hill, Detroit Lions – Hill has been lighting up the scoreboards as the Lions wait for Matthew Stafford to return from his shoulder injury. The backup now has 1,130 passing yards and eight touchdowns over his four starts. Playing against St. Louis on Sunday, Hill had 236 total yards and three touchdown passes but lost Calvin Johnson with a shoulder injury. Hill faces the New York Giants and is available in 89% of ESPN leagues and 68% of Yahoo! leagues.


RUNNING BACKS

Brandon Jackson, Green Bay Packers – Jackson was back on fantasy football owners' radar on Sunday with 15 touches for 130 total yards. Jackson faces Miami at home before tough matchups against the Vikings and Jets. Jackson is available in 44% of ESPN leagues and 45% of Yahoo! leagues.

Mike Hart, Indianapolis Colts – Joseph Addai left in the third quarter with a shoulder injury, opening the door for the former Michigan Wolverine. With Donald Brown still nursing a hamstring injury, Hart filled in with 12 touches for 55 yards and a score. If Addai and Brown can’t go in Week Six, Hart would get the start at Washington and is available in all ESPN and Yahoo! leagues.

Mike Bell, Philadelphia Eagles – LeSean McCoy was able to start Sunday against San Francisco with a broken rib. Bell would be in line if that injury is aggravated and serves as insurance for McCoy owners. McCoy hosts Atlanta and travels to Bell Tennessee in upcoming weeks and is available in 92% of ESPN leagues and 84% of Yahoo! leagues.


WIDE RECEIVERS

Danny Amendola, St. Louis Rams – Amendola recorded 12 receptions for 95 yards and has great chemistry with rookie quarterback, Sam Bradford. Amendola’s main competition for targets, Mark Clayton left the game with a knee injury and did not return. Amendola now has 33 receptions in just five games and faces San Diego, Tampa Bay and Carolina in upcoming weeks. Amendola is available in 89% of ESPN leagues and 82% of Yahoo! leagues.

Mike Williams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – The rookie out of Syracuse scored his third touchdown in four games on Sunday and added 99 yards. He did lose his second fumble in 2010 but has big play ability. Williams faces New Orleans next week before St. Louis and Arizona and is available in 65% of ESPN leagues and 55% of Yahoo! leagues.

Roy Williams, Dallas Cowboys – The underachieving Williams now has 204 yards and three scores in his last two games. The Dallas offense has gotten on track with over 500 total yards on Sunday and Williams has been a key beneficiary. The Cowboys have just one win on the season and will be forced to continue throwing as each game becomes a must win. Williams travels to Minnesota in Week Six and is available in 63% of ESPN leagues and 46% of Yahoo! leagues.


TIGHT ENDS

Tony Moeaki, Kansas City Chiefs – The rookie out of Iowa has played well through four games. Moeaki already has 16 receptions for 173 yards and two scores on the much improved Chiefs squad. Moeaki will be a frequent target with a dream bye week schedule against Houston, Jacksonville, Buffalo and Oakland. The young tight end is available in 94% of ESPN leagues and 77% of Yahoo! leagues.

Jeremy Shockey, New Orleans Saints – Shockey now has 17 catches, 166 yards and two scores in his last three outings. Brees has favored Shockey over fellow tight end David Thomas and this trend will continue. New Orleans faces Tampa Bay and Cleveland in upcoming weeks. Shockey is a strong bye week spot start in either of them and is available in 41% of ESPN leagues and 53% of Yahoo! leagues.

Mercedes Lewis, Jacksonville Jaguars – Lewis now has 16 catches, 192 yards and five scores in 2010. David Garrard has been very inconsistent but clearly looks for the tight end in the red zone. Jacksonville hosts Tennessee before traveling to Kansas City and Dallas in upcoming weeks. Lewis is available in 42% of ESPN leagues and 49% of Yahoo! leagues.


DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS

New York Giants – The Giants have given up a total of 13 points in the last two games. They shut down Chicago and Houston which both top offenses. Look for the Giants to pressure the ball and force turnovers at home against the Lions. New York is available in 64% of ESPN leagues and 33% of Yahoo! leagues.

Tennessee Titans – The Titans have been playing inspired defense in the last three weeks against top offenses. The Titans posted six sacks and three interceptions against Dallas and travel to Jacksonville in Week Six and are available in 59% of ESPN leagues and 36% of Yahoo! leagues.


KICKERS

David Buehler, Dallas Cowboys – Buehler has six field goals and eight PATs in his last three games. Dallas rushed and passed well against Tennessee and will continue to get Buehler in field goal range. Buehler faces Minnesota in Week Six and is available in 96% of ESPN leagues and 85% of Yahoo! leagues.

Adam Vinatieri, Indianapolis Colts – The veteran kicker connected on four field goals and an extra point against Kansas City. Indianapolis is the top offense in the NFL and will continue to give the kicker scoring opportunities. Vinatieri travels to Washington in Week Six and is available in 67% of ESPN leagues and 62% of Yahoo! Leagues.

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Quarterbacks ...
Add 'Em
Chad Henne, Miami
Owned: 68 percent of leagues
Week 5: Did not play.
Analysis: Henne has lost his past two games against the Jets and New England, but he has at least 305 passing yards in each game with four touchdowns and four interceptions over that span. This week, he faces a Green Bay defense that's decimated by injuries. If you're looking for a sleeper quarterback in Week 6 consider Henne since Donovan McNabb just passed for 357 yards against the Packers.

Matt Cassel, Kansas City
Owned: 54 percent of leagues
Week 5: Completed 16 of 29 passes for 156 yards at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Cassel has just one good game this season in Week 3 against the 49ers, but he has a great matchup in Week 6 at Houston if you're willing to trust him. The Texans have allowed two 425-yard passing games and four games with multiple touchdown passes, and that includes matchups with No. 2 quarterbacks like McNabb, Bruce Gradkowski and Eli Manning. Cassel, like Henne, can be considered a sleeper this week.

Vince Young, Tennessee
Owned: 51 percent of leagues
Week 5: Completed 12 of 25 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns and had four carries for 22 yards at Dallas.
Analysis: The only defense better for opposing quarterbacks than Houston is Jacksonville, and that's who Young faces this week. The Jaguars have allowed three quarterbacks to pass for three touchdowns in a game, and Michael Vick had four total touchdowns in Week 3. Ryan Fitzpatrick just passed for 220 yards and three touchdowns against Jacksonville in Week 5. Young has four touchdown passes in his past three games.

David Garrard, Jacksonville
Owned: 38 percent of leagues
Week 5: Completed 16 of 20 passes for 178 yards, three touchdowns, one interception and one fumble at Buffalo.
Analysis: Garrard was on the verge of losing his job, but he has played well the past two games against the Colts and Bills with at least 21 Fantasy points in each outing. He has a favorable matchup this week against the Titans, who have struggled the past three weeks in pass defense, allowing three consecutive 340 yard passing games. Last year against the Titans at home, Garrard passed for 323 yards and three touchdowns with 38 rushing yards and a fumble.


Avoid 'Em
Sam Bradford, St. Louis
Owned: 76 percent of leagues
Week 5: Completed 23 of 45 passes for 215 yards and two interceptions at Detroit.
Analysis: Bradford's solid run as a decent Fantasy option looks to be over with Mark Clayton (knee) going down for the year. He couldn't take advantage of a good matchup with the Lions, and this is a tougher matchup in Week 6 against San Diego. Bradford might find a way to get the job done with his other receivers, which we'll address below, but don't count on Bradford as a starting Fantasy option as the season goes on.

Shaun Hill, Detroit
Owned: 52 percent of leagues
Week 5: Completed 21 of 32 passes for 227 yards and three touchdowns against St. Louis.
Analysis: Hill has done an amazing job filling in for the injured Matthew Stafford (shoulder) with three games with at least 24 Fantasy points in four starts. But his run likely ended with the game against the Rams since he's at the Giants in Week 6 and might not have standout wide receiver Calvin Johnson (shoulder). The Lions then have a bye in Week 7, and Stafford could be back by Week 8. If you missed adding Hill prior to this week, don't do so now.


Scout 'Em
Ryan Fitzpatrick, Buffalo
Owned: 16 percent of leagues
Week 5: Completed 20 of 30 passes for 220 yards and three touchdowns against Jacksonville.
Analysis: If you want to make sure you get Fitzpatrick now then add him this week, but the Bills are on a bye before facing Baltimore in Week 7. But if you're looking for a bye-week replacement in Week 10 for Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees or Philip Rivers then look at Fitzpatrick, who faces the Lions that week. There's a risk that Fitzpatrick might not be the starter then, but he's done a good job with at least 18 Fantasy points in three starts. He could be useful for that matchup.

Matt Flynn, Green Bay
Owned: 0 percent of leagues
Week 5: Did not play.
Analysis: Rodgers will likely be out for Week 6 against the Dolphins with a concussion, which opens the door for Flynn to start. He's not going to produce like Rodgers, but he does have the same weapons. If he plays well and Rodgers is out for an extended period of time then Flynn would be worth adding in all leagues. Stay tuned to see what happens against the Dolphins.

Running Backs ...
Add 'Em
Mike Hart, Indianapolis
Owned: 1 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had 11 carries for 50 yards and a touchdown against Kansas City.
Analysis: Joseph Addai (shoulder) and Donald Brown (hamstring) could be out in Week 6 against Washington, which would allow Hart to be the starter. And if he's starting for the Colts, he could become a No. 2 Fantasy running back, especially if Addai and Brown are out for an extended period of time. Most likely, they would only miss one more week with a bye in Week 7, but add Hart in this matchup since he will likely get the majority of carries.

Brandon Jacobs, N.Y. Giants
Owned: 77 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had 10 carries for 41 yards and a touchdown at Houston.
Analysis: As we said last week, Jacobs' Fantasy value isn't completely done even though Ahmad Bradshaw is the starter. And this week, Jacobs has a favorable matchup against the Lions. Jacobs has scored a touchdown in each of the past two games, and it's hard to ignore back-to-back performances with double digits in Fantasy points. You're not going to start Jacobs in the majority of leagues, but he could be useful in deeper formats with the way he's playing.

Derrick Ward, Houston
Owned: 11 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had one carry for 1 yard and a touchdown against the Giants.
Analysis: There's a chance Arian Foster has a knee injury after he was banged up against the Giants. He said he's good, but we'll see what happens during the week with practice. If Foster is out then Ward will have increased value as the starter for the Texans. He started in Week 4 at Oakland with Foster being benched and finished with 12 carries for 80 yards and a touchdown. And he does have two touchdowns in two games. Scout him in standard leagues, but in deeper formats add him immediately.


Avoid 'Em
Chester Taylor, Chicago
Owned: 40 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had 18 carries for 43 yards and two catches for 11 yards at Carolina.
Analysis: Taylor is worth holding onto in deeper leagues in case Matt Forte suffers an injury, but it's become clear through five games that Forte is back as a standout running back. Forte was impressive against the Panthers with 22 carries for 166 yards and two touchdowns and now has two games with 30 Fantasy points. Taylor has yet to reach double digits in Fantasy points and is just a good insurance policy and nothing more.

Earnest Graham, Tamp Bay
Owned: 5 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had three carries for 65 yards and a touchdown at Cincinnati.
Analysis: Between Cadillac Williams, LeGarrette Blount and Kareem Huggins, the Bucs running back situation is a mess. This week it was Graham's turn, but he got 61 yards on one carry to help his cause. The touchdown is nice, but it was only his second touchdown on the season and first rushing. There could be a chance that the Bucs increase his carries as the season goes on, but you need to see it first or unless an injury happens to Williams.


Scout 'Em
James Starks, Green Bay
Owned: 3 percent of leagues
Week 5: Did not play.
Analysis: Starks is on the PUP list with a hamstring injury, but he's expected to be activated and start practicing after Week 6 against Miami. The rookie from Buffalo has plenty of ability, and his return is probably why the Packers didn't run out to trade for a running back when Ryan Grant (ankle) went down. If you want to get a jump start on your league then add him now since the Packers could turn to him with Brandon Jackson (prior to his outing against Washington) and John Kuhn struggling to get the job done.

Deji Karim, Jacksonville
Owned: 0 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had 15 carries for 70 yards at Buffalo.
Analysis: Rashad Jennings (shoulder) was out against the Bills, which allowed Karim to be the No. 2 running back behind Maurice Jones-Drew. And Jones-Drew banged up his wrist against the Bills, although he's expected to be fine. But if Jennings is out for an extended period of time and something happens to Jones-Drew then Karim would have increased Fantasy value. He's worth keeping an eye on, especially this week, to see the status for Jones-Drew and Jennings heading into the matchup with the Titans.

Wide Receivers ...
Add 'Em
Davone Bess, Miami
Owned: 38 percent of leagues
Week 5: Did not play.
Analysis: Bess has developed a solid rapport with Henne and is doing well with the extra attention going to Brandon Marshall. In his past two games, Bess has 14 catches for 182 yards and a touchdown against the Jets and Patriots. The Packers are dealing with plenty of injuries on defense, and just allowed double digits in Fantasy points to Santana Moss and Anthony Armstrong. Bess should be considered a sleeper for his matchup in Week 6 at Green Bay.

Kenny Britt, Tennessee
Owned: 35 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had four catches for 86 yards and a touchdown at Dallas.
Analysis: Britt is finally playing the way we hoped he would when last season ended. He has three touchdowns in his past three games with the chance to make it four in a row in a great matchup with the Jaguars in Week 6. He has emerged as the best wide receiver in Tennessee, and we can see him continuing to develop as the season goes on. Last year at Jacksonville, Britt had seven catches for 105 yards.

Danny Amendola, St. Louis
Owned: 24 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had 12 catches for 95 yards and a fumble at Detroit.
Analysis: The Rams need help at receiver with Clayton now out for the season, and it's clear Amendola will be the go-to guy. He had 19 targets in the game against the Lions, and he will continue to help Bradford as the season goes on. Other wide receivers to scout for the Rams include Laurent Robinson (8 percent), Brandon Gibson (1 percent) and Mardy Gilyard (1 percent), but Amendola is the receiver to add now in deeper leagues, especially if you lost Clayton.

Mike Thomas, Jacksonville
Owned: 20 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had four catches for 51 yards and three carries for 53 yards and a fumble at Buffalo.
Analysis: Thomas has yet to score a touchdown this season, but he does have at least four catches in four of five games and has been more active in the passing game than Mike Sims-Walker. He has a favorable matchup this week against the Titans, who have allowed some big games to No. 2 wide receivers in Steve Smith of the Giants, Eddie Royal and Roy Williams in the past three games. He should be considered a sleeper in Week 6 in deeper formats.


Avoid 'Em
Robert Meachem, New Orleans
Owned: 44 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had four catches for 72 yards and a touchdown at Arizona.
Analysis: I hope Meachem starts to play like what we saw last year, but I'm not buying that this is the start of 2009 again. Coming into the game against the Cardinals he had just six catches for 54 yards. The Saints still have to get Marques Colston more involved, and Drew Brees is relying on Lance Moore and Jeremy Shockey right now with Reggie Bush (leg) out. Devery Henderson is also part of the mix, and I would wait until Meachem does this in consecutive games before running out to add him.

Bernard Berrian, Minnesota
Owned: 30 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had no catches at the Jets.
Analysis: Berrian has completely disappeared from the Vikings offense now that Randy Moss is on the roster, but he was struggling even before the trade with five catches for 38 yards and no touchdowns. He had no targets against the Jets and was outplayed by Greg Lewis, who appears to have passed him on the depth chart. For anyone still holding onto Berrian, it's safe to drop him in all leagues.


Scout 'Em
Steve Johnson, Buffalo
Owned: 41 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had five catches for 46 yards and two touchdowns against Jacksonville.
Analysis: As we told you last week, Johnson was expected to play well against the Jaguars, and he had the best game of his career. He now has four touchdowns in his past three games and has developed an instant rapport with Fitzpatrick. He should definitely be added in 14- and 16-team leagues, but don't run out to add him just yet in most standard formats unless you're hurting at receiver. It's the same strategy with Fitzpatrick that he's on a bye this week before a tough matchup at Baltimore in Week 7. If you can, be patient before picking him up. The same goes for Lee Evans, who scored against the Jaguars and could be coming around after a slow start.

Nate Burleson, Detroit
Owned: 15 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had four catches for 56 yards and a touchdown against St. Louis.
Analysis: Burleson returned against the Rams after missing two games with an injury, and he scored his first touchdown with the Lions. If Calvin Johnson (shoulder) is out for Week 6 at the Giants or misses an extended period of time then consider adding Burleson in deeper leagues. If he becomes the No. 1 wide receiver for the Lions then his value would dramatically increase.

Anthony Armstrong, Washington
Owned: 1 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had three catches for 84 yards and a touchdown against Green Bay.
Analysis: Armstrong has emerged as the No. 2 wide receiver for the Redskins behind Santana Moss and the No. 3 target in the passing game when you include Chris Cooley. He has 141 receiving yards in his past two games and is starting to develop a rapport with Donovan McNabb. We want to see him produce this way for a couple of more games before saying he's a must add, but he's on his way toward having a breakout season in his third year.

Tight Ends ...
Add 'Em
Heath Miller, Pittsburgh
Owned: 49 percent of leagues
Week 5: Did not play.
Analysis: Miller has struggled with the quarterback rotation in Pittsburgh and the offensive line woes through the first four games, but his outlook is about to improve. While the offensive line is still a mess for the Steelers, Ben Roethlisberger does return in Week 6 against the Browns. Last year, Miller had a career season with 76 catches for 789 yards and six touchdowns, and he should get going again with Big Ben back. He's not a great starting option for Week 6, but he should be good as the season goes on.

Brandon Pettigrew, Detroit
Owned: 42 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had four catches for 26 yards and a touchdown against St. Louis.
Analysis: Pettigrew scored his first touchdown of the season against the Rams and now has at least eight Fantasy points in three of his past four games. He could see more targets if Johnson is out, and he's playing well enough to be considered a potential starting option each week in all leagues. He's still losing catches to Tony Scheffler, but he's showing no signs of slowing down any time soon.

Tony Moeaki, Kansas City
Owned: 42 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had four catches for 50 yards at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Moeaki has played well to start the season with at least five Fantasy points in all four games, and he continues to be a go-to target for Cassel. This week, he has a great matchup against Houston since the Texans have allowed three tight ends to reach double digits in Fantasy points in five games. Hopefully he can continue his pattern of scoring a touchdown in every other game since he failed to find the end zone in Week 5.


Avoid 'Em
Ed Dickson, Baltimore
Owned: 0 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had one catch for 58 yards against Denver.
Analysis: The big play was nice, but Dickson's main Fantasy value will likely come next year when he could start for the Ravens if Todd Heap is gone. He would also see an increase in production if Heap was injured. But he only has two catches on the season and isn't worth adding now. The Ravens have too many targets to consider Dickson as a potential starting option in any leagues.


Scout 'Em
Andrew Quarless, Green Bay
Owned: 0 percent of leagues
Week 5: Had four catches for 51 yards at Washington.
Analysis: The Packers will be without Jermichael Finley (knee) and Donald Lee (chest), which means Quarless is starting for at least Week 6 against the Dolphins if not longer. We would say to add Quarless in deeper leagues, but Rodgers could also miss this game. If the combination is Flynn to Quarless then we're not ready to buy in most standard formats. But if you lost Finley and are in need of tight end help then take a flier on Quarless now.