NFC East coaching: Cowboys sold on Romo
Michael Harmon
FOXSports.com
The NFC East boasts several of the most recognizable coaches in the game with Tom Coughlin, Joe Gibbs and Andy Reid still roaming the sidelines.
The pressure on each of them to perform in 2007 is immense, particularly in New York and Washington, with Bill Cowher in the broadcast booth and surveying the landscape.
There was one huge departure from the coaching ranks in the division, as Bill Parcells walked away from the Cowboys following a crushing defeat in the playoffs on a botched snap. In Parcells' departure, we lose one of the game's greatest masters of the podium, although we'll see him in the analyst role. In his stead, Jerry Jones opted for Wade Phillips, whose defense was overshadowed by the exploits of LaDainian Tomlinson. That won't be the case in Big D, where "Big Defense" is now on the menu (with a side of TO).
Let's break down the division, starting with the Tiki-less Giants.
New York Giants: Tom Coughlin
Offensive analysis
The term "disciplinarian" immediately springs to mind at the mention of Coughlin's name. He makes no secret about his desire to play smart and aggressive football. He's historically leaned heavily on his lead back, with Fred Taylor and Tiki Barber having ranked in the Top 10 in five seasons under his direction. This year should be interesting, with questions on the offensive line, the progress of Eli Manning and the replacement of Barber looming as camp opens.
Run
The New York offense rode Barber's legs as far as they could take them in 2006. Barber's abrupt retirement at the top of his game leaves a huge hole in the offense. Brandon Jacobs has been a monster in spot situations and in bulldozing toward the goal line. Questions about his durability persist as the preseason approaches given his upright running style. To that end, the team added former Browns starter Reuben Droughns to serve in a split backfield. They will be counted on to keep the chains moving and the pressure off Manning.
Pass
Most NFL fans would be hard pressed to recognize that Coughlin began his NFL coaching career as a wide receivers coach for the Philadelphia Eagles in the mid-80s and served on Bill Parcells' staff in the same role from 1988-90. Coughlin knows how to throw wrinkles into plays to get his top receiver the ball, as evidenced by the five times that Jimmy Smith finished in the top five in receiving yards during his tenure.
Plaxico Burress' work ethic has been challenged at times, but his overall numbers and contribution to the offense cannot be minimized. The only question concerning Jeremy Shockey is his health. However, even though he's on the injury list every week, Shockey suits up and performs.
Veteran Amani Toomer is a solid performer as well, but there are questions in the third receiver slot. Sinorice Moss was expected to create a deep ball option for Manning, but injuries kept him from performing in his rookie year. The team will now look to Moss or 2007 draft pick Steve Smith to step up in camp.
As for Manning, this offense certainly allows him to pile up stats. He's ranked among the leaders in passing yards and touchdowns in the past two seasons. However, he'll need to get past the penchant for throwing the untimely interception. If Manning gets the help he needs from the offensive line, he could overcome the loss of Barber.
Who benefits? Brandon Jacobs, Reuben Droughns, Plaxico Burress
Sleeper: Brandon Jacobs, Sinorice Moss, Steve Smith
Past stars: Fred Taylor, Jimmy Smith, Mark Brunell, Mark Bavaro, Ottis Anderson
Defensive analysis
The Giants struggled terribly on defense in 2006, with Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora missing significant portions of the season with injuries. Their return to the field immediately boosts the prospects for this unit. The line is stable, with Justin Tuck ready to assert himself along the former Pro Bowlers, but the linebacker and defensive backfield are question marks as camp begins. LaVar Arrington is no longer in the linebacking corps, and the team will look to convert Mathias Kiwanuka to work alongside Kawika Mitchell and Antonio Pierce.
Run
Barry Cofield played well as a rookie in 2006 and should only be more effective with the attention afforded Strahan and Umenyiora. The Giants ranked in the middle of the pack in run defense last year (114.4 yards per game) but surrendered 19 rushing touchdowns. The unit will need Fred Robbins to repeat his solid 2006 campaign and for Marcus Bell to eat space in the middle.
Pass
The Giants made several moves to help the secondary ahead of last season, but injuries on the defensive line resulted in an inconsistent pass rush and put more pressure on the defensive backs, who battled injuries of their own. The team added award winner Aaron Ross in the draft to shore up the cornerback position behind Corey Webster and Sam Madison. The team will look for other members to work into the rotation in camp, but it all comes down to pressuring the quarterback.
Who benefits? Michael Strahan, Osi Umenyiora
Past stars: Kevin Hardy, Hardy Nickerson, Bryce Paup
=====================
Dallas Cowboys: Wade Phillips
Offensive analysis
The Cowboys bring Phillips over from San Diego after a successful stint running the defense. Phillips retains Jason Garrett and Wade Wilson as coordinator and quarterback coaches, respectively, and brought in Brad Johnson to help bring Tony Romo. It's Romo's development that will decide the fate of this offense, and Phillips will lean heavily on his potent running back duo to make the advancement as easy as possible.
Run
Marion Barber (above) and Julius Jones ran well in 2006 and should benefit from an improved line in 2007. (Chris McGrath / Getty Images)
Rumors about the running back position dominated message boards this summer, but in the end, the Cowboys return to the field one of the game's most potent split backfields. Jones rushed for over 1,000 yards last year, while Marion Barber III dominated around the goal line. They're back for another run behind a reconstituted offensive line. The team expects better play from Flozell Adams and for Leonard Davis (signed to a huge contract) to excel on the inside.
Pass
Romo started his tenure as a starter in the league with a rush, raising the games of Terrell Owens and Glenn and pushing the Cowboys into the playoff hunt. He struggled down the stretch, but the fact that Dallas passed on Brady Quinn tells you all that you need to know about the team's confidence in Romo's abilities. Owens is back to lead the receiving corps (13 or more touchdowns in six of his last nine seasons) with Terry Glenn, Jason Witten and third receiver Patrick Crayton ready to post major points once again.
Another big acquisition by the team was that of Johnson as the backup to Romo. The veteran will be ready to step in for Romo in the event of an injury or longstanding performance issue.
Who benefits? Julius Jones, Marion Barber III, Terrell Owens, Terry Glenn
Sleeper: Patrick Crayton
Past stars: LaDainian Tomlinson, Antowain Smith, Doug Flutie
Defensive analysis
Dallas players and fans are excited by the possibilities for the defense to take a huge leap forward under Phillips. After all, his Chargers ranked among the stingiest units on the ground and produced 61 sacks last year. Ends Marcus Spears and Chris Canty are stoked about playing in this attacking style, and that will allow the defensive backfield to make plays.
Run
Jason Hatcher is a solid run-stuffing nose tackle. The Cowboys will rely on him to clog the middle and allow the ultra-talented linebacking corps to rush to the ball. Dallas ranked 10th against the run in 2006 (110 yards per game) and will only be more effective with the ends crashing in from the corners.
Pass
The Cowboys have a tremendous set of cornerbacks at their disposal, with Terence Newman and Anthony Henry fully healthy and ready to roll. They have depth at the position with veteran Aaron Glenn and Alan Ball, Quincy Butler and Courtney Brown in the mix. Of course, they'll have two hard-hitters at the safety position to cover up for any mistakes (Roy Williams and Ken Hamlin).
Who benefits? Bobby Carpenter, DeMarcus Ware, Marcus Spears, Greg Ellis
Past stars: Luis Castillo, Shawne Merriman, Bruce Smith, Marcellus Wiley
========================
Washington Redskins: Joe Gibbs
Offensive analysis
Gibbs' offense in Washington has always been predicated on a power running game behind a huge offensive line. The names of Joe Jacoby, Mark May, and Russ Grimm are forever cemented in Redskins lore, as they formed the nucleus that led the Redskins to multiple Super Bowl appearances. His 2007 Redskins will also rely heavily on a crushing running game with Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts in the backfield.
Run
The Redskins always turn to the power running game, and 2007 will be no exception as the team looks to bring Jason Campbell along slowly. Portis performed well during his abbreviated 2006 season, but the team found an absolute gem in backup Betts, who rushed for 770 yards in his final six starts last year. The team expects Portis to be ready for the season opener, but I fully expect a more equitable split of carries, as both players can shoulder the load.
Pass
Like his counterparts Parcells and Coughlin, Gibbs starts everything with the run. However, Gibbs has been an innovator in the passing game, utilizing small, quick receivers in three-receiver sets to spread the field. It opens rushing lanes for running backs and offers seams to turn short passes into big gains. Santana Moss worked this system perfectly with Mark Brunell in the past, and he'll look to achieve the same heights with Campbell under center.
The system also recognizes the mismatches and opportunities afforded by use of the tight end position. Chris Cooley remains one of the game's brightest stars at the tight end position around the goal line. He'll be a frequent target for Campbell as he acclimates to the starting role.
The trio of Moss, Antwaan Randle El and Brandon Lloyd gives Gibbs the opportunity to recreate the "Smurfs" package of the 80s.
Who benefits? Clinton Portis, Ladell Betts, Chris Cooley, Santana Moss
Past stars: John Riggins, Earnest Byner, George Rogers, Art Monk
Defensive analysis
The 2006 season was truly disastrous for this unit. The Redskins recorded only 12 turnovers last season, as the team battled through a multitude of injuries. The unit failed to produce much pressure up front, thereby leaving the cornerbacks on an island. The defensive line started to produce better results at season's end, and Washington brass looks for that success to carry over to 2007.
Run
The team ranked 27th in run defense last season, allowing 137.3 yards per game. The unit will need more consistent play on the interior from Cornelius Griffin, Kedric Golston and Joe Salave'a if they hope to improve on this mark. If they can stuff up the middle, there's a chance for the linebacking corps to shine (Marcus Washington, London Fletcher and Rocky McIntosh).
Pass
Washington is hopeful that their defensive backs will be ready to roll for the season opener after experiencing an injury-riddled 2006 season. Shawn Springs and Carlos Rogers form a solid duo at the corners, and former starter Fred Smoot offers depth at the position following his short stay in Minnesota. The Redskins also added Omar Stoutmire and Jerametrius Butler as insurance against the injuries that plagued the unit last year. The selection of strong safety LaRon Landry gives the team great depth. This unit should be markedly better than the 2006 disaster.
Who benefits? Shawn Springs, Andre Carter, London Fletcher
Past stars: LaVar Arrington (pre-2005), Dexter Manley, Darrell Green
===================
Philadelphia Eagles: Andy Reid
Offensive analysis
The Philadelphia offense utilizes the short passing game and forces the primary back (Brian Westbrook of late) to excel in catching the ball out of the backfield. Of course, much to the chagrin of fantasy owners, running backs have often split time during Reid's eight years in Philadelphia. He comes from the Mike Holmgren coaching tree, where elements of the West Coast passing game enter the picture, the ball is spread among many receivers, and the tight end is featured prominently. That's great news for Westbrook owners and those targeting L.J. Smith.
Run
Westbrook has averaged 70.3 receptions during the past three seasons, making him one of the league's most versatile running backs. He produced a career-high 322 touches last season and will continue to have a major role in the offense. Correll Buckhalter is expected to be ready for the opener, but it's rookie Tony Hunt out of Penn State that has our interest piqued. Given the long history of knee ailments for Buckhalter, Hunt stands to gain goal-line touches out of the gate.
Pass
Donovan McNabb was one of the best players last year before missing part of the season with an injury. (Doug Benc / Getty Images)
The Eagles' passing game was off to a monster start, as Donovan McNabb rolled up 16 touchdowns before being lost for the year with a knee injury. His injury allowed Jeff Garcia to step up for fantasy owners and serve as a major waiver wire stud. By all reports, McNabb will be ready for Week 1. A.J. Feely, Kelly Holcomb and draft pick Kevin Kolb will serve as his backups. One thing is for certain. The quarterback in this system receives support from the O-Line, which allowed only 28 sacks last season.
McNabb's return boosts the fantasy fortunes of top receiving target Reggie Brown, L.J. Smith and the rest of the receiving corps. The team added Kevin Curtis in place of Donte' Stallworth, who will be part of the re-tooled receiving corps in New England. He has a shot to be a star in this system if healthy. The Eagles frequently use short routes over the middle, and Curtis is fearless. Additionally, there's nobody to catch him once he hits his stride.
There are a number of other options who will see time and looks in this offense, with 2006 draft choices Jason Avant and Jeremy Bloom working alongside camp sensation Hank Baskett and former fantasy hero Greg Lewis. Baskett will be most interesting to watch in the red zone.
Who benefits? Brian Westbrook, L.J. Smith
Sleeper: Kevin Curtis
Past stars: Mark Chmura, Keith Jackson, Chad Lewis, Duce Staley
Defensive analysis
The story for the defense is health. Most of the unit's stars missed significant portions of the 2006 season. Jevon Kearse missed 14 games, and Darren Howard played through a groin injury. Their availability will be the basis on which this unit builds for success.
Run
Brodrick Bunkley took a step forward in his development last season, and its his performance alongside the rotation of Mike Patterson, Montae Reagor and off-season acquisition Ian Scott (Chicago) that will determine how much this team improves on its 26th-ranked run defense (136.4 yards per game).
Pass
The unit lost Roderick Hood and Michael Lewis to free agency, but appear set in the defensive backfield with Lito Sheppard, Sheldon Brown and Brian Dawkins returning. The team will look for support from William James, who will most certainly factor into the equation. A full season of health from Takeo Spikes will allow the backfield to make plays. However, the success of this unit rests squarely on a consistent pass rush off the edges.advertisement
Who benefits? Jevon Kearse, Darren Howard, Lito Sheppard, Takeo Spikes
Past stars: Troy Vincent, Hugh Douglas
FOXSports.com
The NFC East boasts several of the most recognizable coaches in the game with Tom Coughlin, Joe Gibbs and Andy Reid still roaming the sidelines.
The pressure on each of them to perform in 2007 is immense, particularly in New York and Washington, with Bill Cowher in the broadcast booth and surveying the landscape.
There was one huge departure from the coaching ranks in the division, as Bill Parcells walked away from the Cowboys following a crushing defeat in the playoffs on a botched snap. In Parcells' departure, we lose one of the game's greatest masters of the podium, although we'll see him in the analyst role. In his stead, Jerry Jones opted for Wade Phillips, whose defense was overshadowed by the exploits of LaDainian Tomlinson. That won't be the case in Big D, where "Big Defense" is now on the menu (with a side of TO).
Let's break down the division, starting with the Tiki-less Giants.
New York Giants: Tom Coughlin
Offensive analysis
The term "disciplinarian" immediately springs to mind at the mention of Coughlin's name. He makes no secret about his desire to play smart and aggressive football. He's historically leaned heavily on his lead back, with Fred Taylor and Tiki Barber having ranked in the Top 10 in five seasons under his direction. This year should be interesting, with questions on the offensive line, the progress of Eli Manning and the replacement of Barber looming as camp opens.
Run
The New York offense rode Barber's legs as far as they could take them in 2006. Barber's abrupt retirement at the top of his game leaves a huge hole in the offense. Brandon Jacobs has been a monster in spot situations and in bulldozing toward the goal line. Questions about his durability persist as the preseason approaches given his upright running style. To that end, the team added former Browns starter Reuben Droughns to serve in a split backfield. They will be counted on to keep the chains moving and the pressure off Manning.
Pass
Most NFL fans would be hard pressed to recognize that Coughlin began his NFL coaching career as a wide receivers coach for the Philadelphia Eagles in the mid-80s and served on Bill Parcells' staff in the same role from 1988-90. Coughlin knows how to throw wrinkles into plays to get his top receiver the ball, as evidenced by the five times that Jimmy Smith finished in the top five in receiving yards during his tenure.
Plaxico Burress' work ethic has been challenged at times, but his overall numbers and contribution to the offense cannot be minimized. The only question concerning Jeremy Shockey is his health. However, even though he's on the injury list every week, Shockey suits up and performs.
Veteran Amani Toomer is a solid performer as well, but there are questions in the third receiver slot. Sinorice Moss was expected to create a deep ball option for Manning, but injuries kept him from performing in his rookie year. The team will now look to Moss or 2007 draft pick Steve Smith to step up in camp.
As for Manning, this offense certainly allows him to pile up stats. He's ranked among the leaders in passing yards and touchdowns in the past two seasons. However, he'll need to get past the penchant for throwing the untimely interception. If Manning gets the help he needs from the offensive line, he could overcome the loss of Barber.
Who benefits? Brandon Jacobs, Reuben Droughns, Plaxico Burress
Sleeper: Brandon Jacobs, Sinorice Moss, Steve Smith
Past stars: Fred Taylor, Jimmy Smith, Mark Brunell, Mark Bavaro, Ottis Anderson
Defensive analysis
The Giants struggled terribly on defense in 2006, with Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora missing significant portions of the season with injuries. Their return to the field immediately boosts the prospects for this unit. The line is stable, with Justin Tuck ready to assert himself along the former Pro Bowlers, but the linebacker and defensive backfield are question marks as camp begins. LaVar Arrington is no longer in the linebacking corps, and the team will look to convert Mathias Kiwanuka to work alongside Kawika Mitchell and Antonio Pierce.
Run
Barry Cofield played well as a rookie in 2006 and should only be more effective with the attention afforded Strahan and Umenyiora. The Giants ranked in the middle of the pack in run defense last year (114.4 yards per game) but surrendered 19 rushing touchdowns. The unit will need Fred Robbins to repeat his solid 2006 campaign and for Marcus Bell to eat space in the middle.
Pass
The Giants made several moves to help the secondary ahead of last season, but injuries on the defensive line resulted in an inconsistent pass rush and put more pressure on the defensive backs, who battled injuries of their own. The team added award winner Aaron Ross in the draft to shore up the cornerback position behind Corey Webster and Sam Madison. The team will look for other members to work into the rotation in camp, but it all comes down to pressuring the quarterback.
Who benefits? Michael Strahan, Osi Umenyiora
Past stars: Kevin Hardy, Hardy Nickerson, Bryce Paup
=====================
Dallas Cowboys: Wade Phillips
Offensive analysis
The Cowboys bring Phillips over from San Diego after a successful stint running the defense. Phillips retains Jason Garrett and Wade Wilson as coordinator and quarterback coaches, respectively, and brought in Brad Johnson to help bring Tony Romo. It's Romo's development that will decide the fate of this offense, and Phillips will lean heavily on his potent running back duo to make the advancement as easy as possible.
Run
Marion Barber (above) and Julius Jones ran well in 2006 and should benefit from an improved line in 2007. (Chris McGrath / Getty Images)
Rumors about the running back position dominated message boards this summer, but in the end, the Cowboys return to the field one of the game's most potent split backfields. Jones rushed for over 1,000 yards last year, while Marion Barber III dominated around the goal line. They're back for another run behind a reconstituted offensive line. The team expects better play from Flozell Adams and for Leonard Davis (signed to a huge contract) to excel on the inside.
Pass
Romo started his tenure as a starter in the league with a rush, raising the games of Terrell Owens and Glenn and pushing the Cowboys into the playoff hunt. He struggled down the stretch, but the fact that Dallas passed on Brady Quinn tells you all that you need to know about the team's confidence in Romo's abilities. Owens is back to lead the receiving corps (13 or more touchdowns in six of his last nine seasons) with Terry Glenn, Jason Witten and third receiver Patrick Crayton ready to post major points once again.
Another big acquisition by the team was that of Johnson as the backup to Romo. The veteran will be ready to step in for Romo in the event of an injury or longstanding performance issue.
Who benefits? Julius Jones, Marion Barber III, Terrell Owens, Terry Glenn
Sleeper: Patrick Crayton
Past stars: LaDainian Tomlinson, Antowain Smith, Doug Flutie
Defensive analysis
Dallas players and fans are excited by the possibilities for the defense to take a huge leap forward under Phillips. After all, his Chargers ranked among the stingiest units on the ground and produced 61 sacks last year. Ends Marcus Spears and Chris Canty are stoked about playing in this attacking style, and that will allow the defensive backfield to make plays.
Run
Jason Hatcher is a solid run-stuffing nose tackle. The Cowboys will rely on him to clog the middle and allow the ultra-talented linebacking corps to rush to the ball. Dallas ranked 10th against the run in 2006 (110 yards per game) and will only be more effective with the ends crashing in from the corners.
Pass
The Cowboys have a tremendous set of cornerbacks at their disposal, with Terence Newman and Anthony Henry fully healthy and ready to roll. They have depth at the position with veteran Aaron Glenn and Alan Ball, Quincy Butler and Courtney Brown in the mix. Of course, they'll have two hard-hitters at the safety position to cover up for any mistakes (Roy Williams and Ken Hamlin).
Who benefits? Bobby Carpenter, DeMarcus Ware, Marcus Spears, Greg Ellis
Past stars: Luis Castillo, Shawne Merriman, Bruce Smith, Marcellus Wiley
========================
Washington Redskins: Joe Gibbs
Offensive analysis
Gibbs' offense in Washington has always been predicated on a power running game behind a huge offensive line. The names of Joe Jacoby, Mark May, and Russ Grimm are forever cemented in Redskins lore, as they formed the nucleus that led the Redskins to multiple Super Bowl appearances. His 2007 Redskins will also rely heavily on a crushing running game with Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts in the backfield.
Run
The Redskins always turn to the power running game, and 2007 will be no exception as the team looks to bring Jason Campbell along slowly. Portis performed well during his abbreviated 2006 season, but the team found an absolute gem in backup Betts, who rushed for 770 yards in his final six starts last year. The team expects Portis to be ready for the season opener, but I fully expect a more equitable split of carries, as both players can shoulder the load.
Pass
Like his counterparts Parcells and Coughlin, Gibbs starts everything with the run. However, Gibbs has been an innovator in the passing game, utilizing small, quick receivers in three-receiver sets to spread the field. It opens rushing lanes for running backs and offers seams to turn short passes into big gains. Santana Moss worked this system perfectly with Mark Brunell in the past, and he'll look to achieve the same heights with Campbell under center.
The system also recognizes the mismatches and opportunities afforded by use of the tight end position. Chris Cooley remains one of the game's brightest stars at the tight end position around the goal line. He'll be a frequent target for Campbell as he acclimates to the starting role.
The trio of Moss, Antwaan Randle El and Brandon Lloyd gives Gibbs the opportunity to recreate the "Smurfs" package of the 80s.
Who benefits? Clinton Portis, Ladell Betts, Chris Cooley, Santana Moss
Past stars: John Riggins, Earnest Byner, George Rogers, Art Monk
Defensive analysis
The 2006 season was truly disastrous for this unit. The Redskins recorded only 12 turnovers last season, as the team battled through a multitude of injuries. The unit failed to produce much pressure up front, thereby leaving the cornerbacks on an island. The defensive line started to produce better results at season's end, and Washington brass looks for that success to carry over to 2007.
Run
The team ranked 27th in run defense last season, allowing 137.3 yards per game. The unit will need more consistent play on the interior from Cornelius Griffin, Kedric Golston and Joe Salave'a if they hope to improve on this mark. If they can stuff up the middle, there's a chance for the linebacking corps to shine (Marcus Washington, London Fletcher and Rocky McIntosh).
Pass
Washington is hopeful that their defensive backs will be ready to roll for the season opener after experiencing an injury-riddled 2006 season. Shawn Springs and Carlos Rogers form a solid duo at the corners, and former starter Fred Smoot offers depth at the position following his short stay in Minnesota. The Redskins also added Omar Stoutmire and Jerametrius Butler as insurance against the injuries that plagued the unit last year. The selection of strong safety LaRon Landry gives the team great depth. This unit should be markedly better than the 2006 disaster.
Who benefits? Shawn Springs, Andre Carter, London Fletcher
Past stars: LaVar Arrington (pre-2005), Dexter Manley, Darrell Green
===================
Philadelphia Eagles: Andy Reid
Offensive analysis
The Philadelphia offense utilizes the short passing game and forces the primary back (Brian Westbrook of late) to excel in catching the ball out of the backfield. Of course, much to the chagrin of fantasy owners, running backs have often split time during Reid's eight years in Philadelphia. He comes from the Mike Holmgren coaching tree, where elements of the West Coast passing game enter the picture, the ball is spread among many receivers, and the tight end is featured prominently. That's great news for Westbrook owners and those targeting L.J. Smith.
Run
Westbrook has averaged 70.3 receptions during the past three seasons, making him one of the league's most versatile running backs. He produced a career-high 322 touches last season and will continue to have a major role in the offense. Correll Buckhalter is expected to be ready for the opener, but it's rookie Tony Hunt out of Penn State that has our interest piqued. Given the long history of knee ailments for Buckhalter, Hunt stands to gain goal-line touches out of the gate.
Pass
Donovan McNabb was one of the best players last year before missing part of the season with an injury. (Doug Benc / Getty Images)
The Eagles' passing game was off to a monster start, as Donovan McNabb rolled up 16 touchdowns before being lost for the year with a knee injury. His injury allowed Jeff Garcia to step up for fantasy owners and serve as a major waiver wire stud. By all reports, McNabb will be ready for Week 1. A.J. Feely, Kelly Holcomb and draft pick Kevin Kolb will serve as his backups. One thing is for certain. The quarterback in this system receives support from the O-Line, which allowed only 28 sacks last season.
McNabb's return boosts the fantasy fortunes of top receiving target Reggie Brown, L.J. Smith and the rest of the receiving corps. The team added Kevin Curtis in place of Donte' Stallworth, who will be part of the re-tooled receiving corps in New England. He has a shot to be a star in this system if healthy. The Eagles frequently use short routes over the middle, and Curtis is fearless. Additionally, there's nobody to catch him once he hits his stride.
There are a number of other options who will see time and looks in this offense, with 2006 draft choices Jason Avant and Jeremy Bloom working alongside camp sensation Hank Baskett and former fantasy hero Greg Lewis. Baskett will be most interesting to watch in the red zone.
Who benefits? Brian Westbrook, L.J. Smith
Sleeper: Kevin Curtis
Past stars: Mark Chmura, Keith Jackson, Chad Lewis, Duce Staley
Defensive analysis
The story for the defense is health. Most of the unit's stars missed significant portions of the 2006 season. Jevon Kearse missed 14 games, and Darren Howard played through a groin injury. Their availability will be the basis on which this unit builds for success.
Run
Brodrick Bunkley took a step forward in his development last season, and its his performance alongside the rotation of Mike Patterson, Montae Reagor and off-season acquisition Ian Scott (Chicago) that will determine how much this team improves on its 26th-ranked run defense (136.4 yards per game).
Pass
The unit lost Roderick Hood and Michael Lewis to free agency, but appear set in the defensive backfield with Lito Sheppard, Sheldon Brown and Brian Dawkins returning. The team will look for support from William James, who will most certainly factor into the equation. A full season of health from Takeo Spikes will allow the backfield to make plays. However, the success of this unit rests squarely on a consistent pass rush off the edges.advertisement
Who benefits? Jevon Kearse, Darren Howard, Lito Sheppard, Takeo Spikes
Past stars: Troy Vincent, Hugh Douglas
posted by The Gryphon at 9:12 PM
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