Over the next several days we will take a look at the outlook of the 32 NFL Teams. They will be informative for both the fan of football and also some have information for you fantasy football buffs too. Give us your feedback by leaving your comments. Thank you and have a great season...
2008 Team Outlook: Chicago
As per Jeb Gorham, What can he say, Chicago general manager Jerry Angelo and other team management made some interesting strategic decisions this offseason. After Chicago's poor showing (7-9-0) in the NFC North last season, things needed to get mixed up, but the question eating away at most fantasy fans this year, did Chicago make the right roster changes to see marked improvement?
The team 1) kept two lackluster QBs in Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton when they could have shopped around, 2) signed their ace kicker Robbie Gould to the highest contract for an NFL kicker, 3) released two big names: strong safety Adam Archuleta and WR Mushin Muhammad, 4) lost several players who could have made significant contributions if provided the right support structure: WR Bernard Berrian went to Minnesota, LB Brendon Ayanbadejo took off to Baltimore, and DT Darwin Walker to Carolina, and 5) added a few wide outs that could make a difference with a supportive and consistent QB: Brandon Lloyd and Marty Booker were acquired from Washington and Miami respectively.
Last year I was optimistic about Chicago's abilities to get the job done as a team. They had just let Thomas Jones go to NY and bet that Rex Grossman could lead the team. This season I am much more pessimistic as Grossman is back and his supporting cast has been whittled away, yet again. In my opinion, to groom an effective and efficient QB, any GM should attempt to keep consistency in the wings, i.e. keep some players around long enough for your team to gel. I am not saying that Booker, Bradley, Hester and Lloyd will not be successful, but simply keeping the situation in Chicago in perspective. If Grossman, or for the sake of argument, Orton, can step up and throw the ball accurately, these guys can for sure catch it. A successful passing game will then open up the ground charge for Benson and Peterson, who have shown sparks of superb play.
I'll watch Chicago closely this season for several reasons: 1) Lovie Smith should never go underestimated, 2) the Chicago Defense with all personnel on board (Urlacher may sit out mandatory mini-camp) 3) Grossman can throw touchdowns as well as interceptions, but what if he threw only touchdowns? and 4) with other surprise performances from Benson, Peterson and the WR core, this Chicago team could be tough even in the NFC North with Greenbay, Detroit and Minnesota.
QB Rex Grossman, CHI (QB - #26) - Gamble (high risk)
After a touchdown and interception laden 2006 with a Super Bowl appearance, Grossman lost his starting job in 2007 to Brian Griese. Grossman took back over in Chicago nearing the end of the season, tossing 7 interceptions and only throwing 4 TDs in 8 games. We know Grossman can air the ball out, but his accuracy is questionable. If Grossman is on his game and can connect with his restructured wide out squad, it might be deja vu in terms of seeing Chicago in the late playoff rounds; but let's hope the interceptions are avoided. I would pick up Grossman in a later round at #2 QB -- if he is there, why not take a gamble.
QB Kyle Orton, CHI (QB - #47) - Deep-league Only
There is one thing that's consistent about our boys in Chicago, they can sure throw interceptions. Orton started in 2005 in Chicago and showed very little. Last season Kyle played 3 games and went about 50/50 touchdowns to interceptions and looks to be a second or possibly third stringer this season. Chicago generally carries 3 QBs on their roster, so look for another face to appear on the radar before the end of camp. Orton would be a handcuff for Grossman and/or deep league only guy if Grossman drops pace again.
RB Cedric Benson, --GONE and - Bust (overvalued) and GONE from Chicago but he'll remain the same where ever he ends up.
Cedric Benson looks to have his first successful full season as the starting RB in Chicago. After taking over when Thomas Jones exited for NY, Benson has not done exceptional work. Benson has been named Lovie's starter, but is facing competition from Adrian Peterson, Garrett Wolfe and especially recently drafted Tulane star Matt Forte for his job. Benson will need a strong camp to emerge as the unquestioned starter Week 1. In 11 games last season, Benson carried 196 times for 674 yards before injury took him out of action. I think that Benson is a safe #2 RB and possibly a #1 if he is on his game. He might be a strategic late round pick.
To think Chicago let Thomas Jones go to give Benson a big chance. Benson is now a bust in my book. He was released by Chicago today after receiving his second alcohol-related offense in a month. Benson might get picked up, but he is a risk.
RB Adrian Peterson, CHI (RB - #39) - Fantasy Handcuff
Although it is slowly appearing that Matt Forte may play second fiddle in Chicago to Cedric Benson, Adrian Peterson (who has experience in many games over his 6 NFL seasons) will continue to battle with both younger RBs. Peterson played in every game last season, even having a 100 plus yard game during week 16. Peterson is a handcuff for any Chicago RB as he can fill into their running scheme well when needed.
WR Marty Booker, CHI (WR - #58) - Solid/Safe Pick
The Chicago wide outs this year will be hit or miss with Grossman or Orton throwing. Not one Chicago receiver caught over 71 receptions or reached 1000 yards last season. The last time Booker had seasons better than this were 2001 and 2002 when he was first with Chicago. Booker's 2007 season in Miami was not the best - with 50 receptions for 556 yards - , but I would expect him to pick things back up with a new team, despite the anticipated QB issues. I would take a gamble and say that Booker will be a solid #2 WR on your roster and will get many looks in order to open the ground game for Benson.
WR Mark Bradley, CHI (WR - #131) - Deep-league Only
Let's put it this way, Mark Bradley has not had that many chances in his 3 years. He has battled the inconsistencies of the Chicago QBs and will now look to prove something this season as the most likely Chicago #3 at wide out. Bradley's a big target and if he gets looks, he will make the most of it. Bradley could work in deep leagues, but will probably be a waiver wire guy for most.
WR Devin Hester, CHI (WR - #98) - Deep-league Only
Hester is back, that means a frightening Chicago special teams on returns. I see Booker, Lloyd and Bradley as the top 3 WRs this season, but Hester and his excellent speed are always a factor. Lovie will use this machine when needed and I sure enjoy watching one of his breaks. Hester could be deep league addition potentially, but as in most fantasy leagues, he remains on the wire.
WR Brandon Lloyd, CHI (WR - #115) - Super Sleeper (high risk/potential)
Brandon Lloyd is my Chicago super sleeper. After two consistently average seasons in San Francisco before moving to Washington, Lloyd could be a replacement for Berrian's deep receiving loss. Lloyd's match to the Chicago passing game and abilities in this environment must be tested, but with QBs who can let it loose he could be a wondrous surprise. Keep an eye on Lloyd as his draft status will vary depending on league. I see him going in late rounds or being a waiver pick-up, but someone in your draft might take him earlier than anticipated.
TE Greg Olsen, CHI (TE - #14) - Sleeper (undervalued)
Olsen will most likely be Grossman's drop off safety receiver. This monster of a tight end can and should make a difference in Chicago's passing game. I think he will be used often in the red zone and to buy Chicago's offense short yardage. Olsen only scored twice last season, but I would bet he triples these numbers this season. Olsen will be a sleeper TE who will most likely show as a #1 TE in most leagues. I say give him a shot if you do not pick up one of the top 4 TEs.
There was hype last season among Chicago fans that Rex and the crew would have a solid season. That was far from reality. Chicago struggled with inconsistent leadership at QB and went downhill from there. This season, Chicago looks to reclaim their stake in the competitive NFC North, where Green Bay, Minnesota and Detroit will give them a run for their money. At this early stage and with Chicago's attempt to restructure some roles, I would not count them out, but their QB struggles look to continue.
2008 Team Outlook: Chicago
As per Jeb Gorham, What can he say, Chicago general manager Jerry Angelo and other team management made some interesting strategic decisions this offseason. After Chicago's poor showing (7-9-0) in the NFC North last season, things needed to get mixed up, but the question eating away at most fantasy fans this year, did Chicago make the right roster changes to see marked improvement?
The team 1) kept two lackluster QBs in Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton when they could have shopped around, 2) signed their ace kicker Robbie Gould to the highest contract for an NFL kicker, 3) released two big names: strong safety Adam Archuleta and WR Mushin Muhammad, 4) lost several players who could have made significant contributions if provided the right support structure: WR Bernard Berrian went to Minnesota, LB Brendon Ayanbadejo took off to Baltimore, and DT Darwin Walker to Carolina, and 5) added a few wide outs that could make a difference with a supportive and consistent QB: Brandon Lloyd and Marty Booker were acquired from Washington and Miami respectively.
Last year I was optimistic about Chicago's abilities to get the job done as a team. They had just let Thomas Jones go to NY and bet that Rex Grossman could lead the team. This season I am much more pessimistic as Grossman is back and his supporting cast has been whittled away, yet again. In my opinion, to groom an effective and efficient QB, any GM should attempt to keep consistency in the wings, i.e. keep some players around long enough for your team to gel. I am not saying that Booker, Bradley, Hester and Lloyd will not be successful, but simply keeping the situation in Chicago in perspective. If Grossman, or for the sake of argument, Orton, can step up and throw the ball accurately, these guys can for sure catch it. A successful passing game will then open up the ground charge for Benson and Peterson, who have shown sparks of superb play.
I'll watch Chicago closely this season for several reasons: 1) Lovie Smith should never go underestimated, 2) the Chicago Defense with all personnel on board (Urlacher may sit out mandatory mini-camp) 3) Grossman can throw touchdowns as well as interceptions, but what if he threw only touchdowns? and 4) with other surprise performances from Benson, Peterson and the WR core, this Chicago team could be tough even in the NFC North with Greenbay, Detroit and Minnesota.
QB Rex Grossman, CHI (QB - #26) - Gamble (high risk)
After a touchdown and interception laden 2006 with a Super Bowl appearance, Grossman lost his starting job in 2007 to Brian Griese. Grossman took back over in Chicago nearing the end of the season, tossing 7 interceptions and only throwing 4 TDs in 8 games. We know Grossman can air the ball out, but his accuracy is questionable. If Grossman is on his game and can connect with his restructured wide out squad, it might be deja vu in terms of seeing Chicago in the late playoff rounds; but let's hope the interceptions are avoided. I would pick up Grossman in a later round at #2 QB -- if he is there, why not take a gamble.
QB Kyle Orton, CHI (QB - #47) - Deep-league Only
There is one thing that's consistent about our boys in Chicago, they can sure throw interceptions. Orton started in 2005 in Chicago and showed very little. Last season Kyle played 3 games and went about 50/50 touchdowns to interceptions and looks to be a second or possibly third stringer this season. Chicago generally carries 3 QBs on their roster, so look for another face to appear on the radar before the end of camp. Orton would be a handcuff for Grossman and/or deep league only guy if Grossman drops pace again.
RB Cedric Benson, --GONE and - Bust (overvalued) and GONE from Chicago but he'll remain the same where ever he ends up.
Cedric Benson looks to have his first successful full season as the starting RB in Chicago. After taking over when Thomas Jones exited for NY, Benson has not done exceptional work. Benson has been named Lovie's starter, but is facing competition from Adrian Peterson, Garrett Wolfe and especially recently drafted Tulane star Matt Forte for his job. Benson will need a strong camp to emerge as the unquestioned starter Week 1. In 11 games last season, Benson carried 196 times for 674 yards before injury took him out of action. I think that Benson is a safe #2 RB and possibly a #1 if he is on his game. He might be a strategic late round pick.
To think Chicago let Thomas Jones go to give Benson a big chance. Benson is now a bust in my book. He was released by Chicago today after receiving his second alcohol-related offense in a month. Benson might get picked up, but he is a risk.
RB Adrian Peterson, CHI (RB - #39) - Fantasy Handcuff
Although it is slowly appearing that Matt Forte may play second fiddle in Chicago to Cedric Benson, Adrian Peterson (who has experience in many games over his 6 NFL seasons) will continue to battle with both younger RBs. Peterson played in every game last season, even having a 100 plus yard game during week 16. Peterson is a handcuff for any Chicago RB as he can fill into their running scheme well when needed.
WR Marty Booker, CHI (WR - #58) - Solid/Safe Pick
The Chicago wide outs this year will be hit or miss with Grossman or Orton throwing. Not one Chicago receiver caught over 71 receptions or reached 1000 yards last season. The last time Booker had seasons better than this were 2001 and 2002 when he was first with Chicago. Booker's 2007 season in Miami was not the best - with 50 receptions for 556 yards - , but I would expect him to pick things back up with a new team, despite the anticipated QB issues. I would take a gamble and say that Booker will be a solid #2 WR on your roster and will get many looks in order to open the ground game for Benson.
WR Mark Bradley, CHI (WR - #131) - Deep-league Only
Let's put it this way, Mark Bradley has not had that many chances in his 3 years. He has battled the inconsistencies of the Chicago QBs and will now look to prove something this season as the most likely Chicago #3 at wide out. Bradley's a big target and if he gets looks, he will make the most of it. Bradley could work in deep leagues, but will probably be a waiver wire guy for most.
WR Devin Hester, CHI (WR - #98) - Deep-league Only
Hester is back, that means a frightening Chicago special teams on returns. I see Booker, Lloyd and Bradley as the top 3 WRs this season, but Hester and his excellent speed are always a factor. Lovie will use this machine when needed and I sure enjoy watching one of his breaks. Hester could be deep league addition potentially, but as in most fantasy leagues, he remains on the wire.
WR Brandon Lloyd, CHI (WR - #115) - Super Sleeper (high risk/potential)
Brandon Lloyd is my Chicago super sleeper. After two consistently average seasons in San Francisco before moving to Washington, Lloyd could be a replacement for Berrian's deep receiving loss. Lloyd's match to the Chicago passing game and abilities in this environment must be tested, but with QBs who can let it loose he could be a wondrous surprise. Keep an eye on Lloyd as his draft status will vary depending on league. I see him going in late rounds or being a waiver pick-up, but someone in your draft might take him earlier than anticipated.
TE Greg Olsen, CHI (TE - #14) - Sleeper (undervalued)
Olsen will most likely be Grossman's drop off safety receiver. This monster of a tight end can and should make a difference in Chicago's passing game. I think he will be used often in the red zone and to buy Chicago's offense short yardage. Olsen only scored twice last season, but I would bet he triples these numbers this season. Olsen will be a sleeper TE who will most likely show as a #1 TE in most leagues. I say give him a shot if you do not pick up one of the top 4 TEs.
There was hype last season among Chicago fans that Rex and the crew would have a solid season. That was far from reality. Chicago struggled with inconsistent leadership at QB and went downhill from there. This season, Chicago looks to reclaim their stake in the competitive NFC North, where Green Bay, Minnesota and Detroit will give them a run for their money. At this early stage and with Chicago's attempt to restructure some roles, I would not count them out, but their QB struggles look to continue.
