The Dallas Cowboys also released Roy Williams (the safety) today. I guess the out with big mouths and in with the new. I have nothing really interesting other than that to say about this, just thought it was interesting that the ‘Boys released two (at one point) superstars in the NFL in one day while other teams cant even find one.

Madden NFL 09 Kickoff! Live
Electronic Arts and Spike TV will team up to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the popular franchise in video game market on Monday, August 11 with the “Madden NFL 09 Kickoff! Live” special. The celebration will feature bevy of NFL Superstars, the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants, a message from John Madden, and, yes, the sale of its first copy courtesy of Wal-Mart…Full Article

1) Tom Brady (NE) Will Brady throw for 50 TD this year? No. Peyton Manning followed up his record 49 TD season with 28 TDs. You can count on Brady to top that. He is still the number one QB on the board so don’t hesitate to nab him if you don’t like the RB or WR staring you in the face with your pick. Resigning Moss was huge. The offense will be just as good and the division still stinks.

2) Peyton Manning (IND) Peyton Manning has averaged “only” 30 TD’s per season the last 3 years. Some owners that spent a first round pick on him may be disappointed by that. Ludicrous. Just temper your expectations. Harrison is nearing the end of his career and the run game is still prevalent for the Colts. But Manning will rarely lose you a week and will win you plenty. He is a reliable for sure.

3) Drew Brees (NO) Brees was hurt by McAllister’s injury early on and the Saints slow start in general. But he had some monster games and Colston remains a fantasy stud. Despite all the adversity, Brees still ended up with 28 TD passes and over 4400 yards. An even better 2008 is well within his sights. Brees is definitely a top 5 QB in any format.

4) Tony Romo (DAL) Romo took a lot of heat for whatever reason last year – some of it from Dallas fans. Strange considering he finished second only to Brady in QB Fantasy scoring. He did finish the year with 4 sub-par game in a row, but with another year as a starter under his belt and the Dallas offense expected to be explosive again – Romo is in line for another big year.

5) Carson Palmer (CIN) It’s not too often that 1 players success can be so closely tied to another but it is for Palmer in 2008. If Chad Johnson does not play for the Bengals this year, Palmer’s stock will drop considerably. The Bengals have already lost Chris Henry and there are only so many weapons a QB can lose before he drops back to the back. Expect a solid season but not a great one.

6) Derek Anderson (CLE) Throwing for 29 TDs (and 3 rushing) and almost 3800 yards when you don’t begin the season as the starter is nothing short of amazing. Cleveland has a top 5 WR in Braylon Edwards, a top pass catching TE, and an improved line. It will not be surprising (at least to GTD) if Anderson tops last year’s numbers. Don’t shy away from Anderson if he slots to you.

7) Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) Something seems not quite right when a Pittsburgh QB accounts for 34 TD’s (32 passing). But these are not your Steelers from years past. Yes, they still run the ball and run it often, but they are not afraid to throw deep and they throw it plenty in the red zone. Big Ben increased his TD passes by 14 and cut down his INTs by 12. Consider him a top tier QB for 2008.

8 ) Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) Seattle’s lack of a running game last year was the root cause for Hasselbeck posting career highs in both attempts and TD’s. Throw in the fact that he only had 2 stinker games and you realize that he is a solid, if unspectacular, Fantasy QB. Hopefully, with an improved running game and healthier WRs – Hasselbeck will produce good numbers again.

9) Donovan McNabb (PHI) This one is simple – if McNabb is healthy, he is a top Fantasy producer at QB. But that is a BIG if. McNabb averaged over 2 TDs per start from 2004-06. Last year was a down year numbers-wise but a lot of that had to do with the Eagles having a down year. If the Eagles stay healthy and are in the playoff hunt, expect a much better year from McNabb.

10) Eli Manning (NYG) Unlike his brother, Eli will lose you weeks. He is prone to some very bad performances every year. He is durable though. He has started every game the last 3 years. IF the Giants lose Shockey, that will hurt some, but he still has weapons and some good young receivers that could have breakout years in 2008. Expect a TD total in the mid 20’s from Manning.

11) Marc Bulger (STL) Bulger appeared to be on the verge of Fantasy stardom after a great 2006 season. But an injury to Steven Jackson and Orlando Pace doomed Bulger and the Rams offense from the beginning of the season. A respectable 2008 is clearly within reach and if the O-line improves, he could return to his 2006 numbers. If you wait for a QB, Bulger is not a bad choice.

12) Philip Rivers (SD) Good thing that being a punk does not cut against you in Fantasy Football. If it did, Rivers would not be worth drafting. The addition of Chambers dramatically increased his options and if Vincent Jackson rebounds from a disappointing year, Rivers could improve upon his 21 TD passes from last year. His rehab from off season surgery is on target and he is not expected to miss any games.

13) Jay Cutler (DEN) Cutler being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes will have no affect on his 2008 season. What may have an effect is an iffy WR crop beset by an injury to Brandon Marshall and a new #2 in injury prone Darrell Jackson. If the WRs stay healthy, Cutler could be a nice low-end #1 in his second full season.

14) Matt Leinart (AZ) Who didn’t enjoy the photos of Leinart in the Jacuzzi with a bunch of hotties?! How about his coach and GM. Adding to his problems is that he is still healing from his broken collarbone. If Leinart stays focused (and healthy), and if the Cardinals keep Boldin happy with a new contract – Leinart could post good numbers. Those are a lot of “ifs” but he is worth a flyer in the middle rounds.

15) Matt Schaub (HOU) Schaub was a big trendy pick heading into the 2007 Fantasy draft. Prior to his injury (which led to shoulder surgery), his numbers were pedestrian. If you want to rely on Schaub as your # 1 starter next year – good luck. If you draft him as your backup – he has potential.

16) Aaron Rodgers (GB) This is one of the great unknowns heading into the 2008 Fantasy draft. His season could be surprisingly good – or less than mediocre. He has good receivers, a potential star in RB Ryan Grant, and a solid O-line. Don’t’ hesitate to take him as your backup.

17) Jon Kitna (DET) Another QB with really high Fantasy expectations heading into 2007. The Lions, as a team, disappointed again and that hurt Kitna’s numbers. Throwing for over 4000 yards 2 seasons in a row is impressive. But throwing only 29 TDs in that same period in a Mike Martz offense is not. With Martz now gone – we can’t recommend.

18 ) Vince Young (TEN) Remember Kordell Stewart. Well Vince Young is turning in the new millennium’s version of that. He will have some great games this year. But there will be too many 10-21 for 104 yard games that will drive you crazy. The Titans had 10 games without a TD pass and only amassed 2878 yards passing. Do yourself a favor and pass.

19) David Garrard (JAX) Garrard is the anti-Rivers. Classy, reliable, and humble. He also had good numbers in his first full season. In 12 games started he threw for 18 TDs (1 rushing) and had only 3 interceptions. That is the amazing part. Garrard is a great decision maker. Having said that, he is a low-end #1 – high end #2 Fantasy QB.

20) Jason Campbell (WAS) Campbell is a better real life QB than a Fantasy QB. The Redskins added some depth at WR from the draft but if you take a good look at his 2007 numbers – they just don’t inspire. If you want to hope for a breakout year, draft Campbell as your #2 and hope for the best.

21) Jake Delhomme (CAR) Look up Fantasy Sleeper QB in the Sport’s dictionary and you will see Delhomme’s picture. The last 2 seasons that Delhomme played 16 games (2004 and 2005) he threw for 53 TDs (and added 2 rushing). These are excellent Fantasy numbers. If he is healthy heading into the season opener (coming off elbow surgery), gel confident in drafting him in the middle rounds.

22) Jeff Garcia (TB) If you are high on 38 year old QBs that play in non-explosive offenses – have at it. Garcia totaled on 13 passing TDs in 13 games started so don’t expect much more in 2008.

23) Kellen Clemens (NYJ) It’s hard to devote much attention to a QB that may or may not be a starter all year. Having said that – if Clemens has a healthy Coles and Cotchery all year and the Jets offense improves, Clemons could be a decent spot Fantasy starter. The division is weak (except for N.E.).

24) Matt Ryan (ATL) The Rookie was drafted by The Atlanta Falcons with the 3rd over all pick in the 2008 NFL draft. Ryan has plenty of upside & weapons that will make him look good this season, but he still has to compete against Chris Redman & Joey Harrington for the starting QB job in Atlanta this year! Matt has the most upside of all these quarterbacks, so don’t b surprised if you see the Rookie behind center by week 6 of the season.

25) Alex Smith (SF) Smith is back at full strength after surgery. That’s the good news. The bad news is that he has never been a reliable Fantasy QB in his short career. The 49′ers may be better this year as a team but expecting much more than mediocrity from Smith is a stretch.

26) Brodie Croyle (KC) New offensive coordinator Chan Gailey could make a slight difference but the Chiefs stink and Croyle had 6 TDs and 6 INTs last year. Worth a late round flyer at best.

27) Rex Grossman (CHI) Beating out Kyle Orton (if he even does) is nothing to shout about. Grossman went from the promise of a 23 TD season in 2006 to an injury marred and mistake prone 2007. Compared to other QBs at this ranking, he is worth more than most with a 20+ TD season under his belt.

28 ) J.P. Losman (BUF) Losman has lost his starting jobs multiple times in the past 3 seasons. He has even made his intentions known of wanting to be traded. The best you could hope for from Losman is one or 2 good games so why bother?

29) Trent Edwards (BUF) Edwards is the starter heading into 2008 after starting 10 games last year (going 5-5). Besides Lee Evans, the Bills passing game lacks firepower. Edwards did have a 4 TD, no INT game so perhaps there is some upside – if the Bills improve offensively.

30) Tarvaris Jackson (MIN) What can you say about a QB that started 12 games and threw for only 9 TD against 12 picks? Not much. Jackson is asked to manage the game for the Vikings and not lose – as opposed to winning with his arm. Bernard Berrian will help but it would be wise to see how Jackson fares before adding him to your roster.

31) JaMarcus Russell (OAK) Russell is not technically a rookie but should be treated as one. Although rookie starters do not usually fare well, Russell could be an exception. He’s incredibly big and strong and the Raiders like to go for big plays. With the additions of McFadden and Javon Walker to the Raiders attack, Russell could be a decent #2 by season’s end.

32) Jon Beck (MIA) Beck may not even win the starting job and Miami’s offense is horrible. Take a wait and see approach before considering adding Beck to your roster.

33) Chris Redmond (ATL) Redman performed pretty well for the Falcons in his 4 starts (and 3 others played) but with top pick Matt Ryan looming, don’t count on Redman starting many games.

34) Kurt Warner (AZ) When Warner starts and does not get hurt, he’s still an intriguing start. The Cardinals have weapons and when Warner gets time he can still produce the big game. But he goes into this season as the clear backup.

35) Damon Huard (KC) Another QB that enters the season without knowing whether he’s the starter or backup. Huard had decent numbers at times but is still not worth a draft pick.

36) Sage Rosenfels (HOU) Rosenfels posted good numbers last year while Schaub was hurt. Unless Schaub gets hurt again, there will no reason to pick up Schaub. If Rosenfels does get the call again, he could be a decent fill-in.

37) Trent Green (MIA) Green will more at home back in St. Louis than he was in Miami. If Bulger gets hurt, he may be worth picking up as a Fantasy backup.

38) Chad Pennington (NYJ) Pennington is only 1 season removed from starting 16 games with 3352 yards and 17 TDs. Now he’s fighting for the starting job with Kellen Clemens. If he wins the job, keep your eye on him as a viable backup.

39) Josh McCown (OAK) The good news is that McCown could win the starting job. The bad news is that he plays for the Dolphins. Look elsewhere.

40) Kyle Boller (BAL) The Ravens offense is bad and Boller is – bad. If he’s on your team this year you have problems. Look for Joey Flacco to take over the Baltimore offense by mid season.

Honorable Mention: Brett Favre (TBD) I’m not shocked to see that Brett “has the itch” to come back and play. I will be shocked if the Packers just release him and he ends up torching their secondary if he ends up on the Vikings this season!Brett will come screaming into the top 10 as soon as he signs with a team!

- The Football Consigliere

From the pen of The Football Consigliere

Tom Brady
Height: 6-4
Weight: 220lbs
Team: New England Patriots
2 YR Avg: 37 TD
2007 Total: 50 TD
2008 Projection: 38 TD

Last year, Brady put up unbelievable numbers, which included 50 TD passes. He’s always been a solid performer with an all pro offensive line, but now he’s gotten some skilled help. It’s no coincidence that his huge season came during his first year with Randy Moss. Moss hauled in 23 of those 50 TD passes and his speed left the field wide open underneath for Brady’s safety valve, Wes Welker. It never seems to matter who is in the backfield but a healthy Laurence Maroney can only help Brady’s numbers. Expect a decline in last year’s TD total, but he could still lead the NFL.

Tony Romo
Height: 6-2
Weight: 230lbs
Team: Dallas Cowboys
2 YR Avg: 27.5 TD
2007 Total: 36 TD
2008 Projection: 32 TD

Romo is coming off a huge season in which he seemed nearly unstoppable when he and Terrell Owens were on the same page. You add Marion Barber and Jason Witten into the mix and Romo has plenty of weapons at his disposal. There is also a wild card in the backfield with game breaker Felix Jones. There are plenty of reasons to love Tony this year, unless of course he starts dating Hilary Duff.

Peyton Manning
Height: 6-5
Weight: 230lbs
Team: Indianapolis Colts
2 YR Avg: 31 TD
2007 Total: 31 TD
2008 Projection: 34 TD

Manning will once again lead one of the best offenses in the NFL. All of his weapons will return and everyone is getting better with the exception of Marvin Harrison, who seems to be slowing down a bit. Reggie Wayne will stretch the field, Dallas Clark will cover the middle and Joseph Addai will be the homerun threat on the swing pass. Manning always has a strong line to give him plenty of time and there’s no reason to think that he won’t be near the top of the league in TD passes again this year.

Ben Roethlisberger
Height: 6-5
Weight: 242
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
2 YR Avg: 25 TD
2007 Total: 32 TD
2008 Projection: 28 TD

Last year, Big Ben nearly doubled his previous career high for TD passes. He’s not the most mobile QB and he did lose OL Alan Faneca in the offseason, but he gained a couple more weapons on offense. The Steelers already have Hines Ward, and Santonio Holmes is emerging as a star, but they added Rashard Mendenhall and Limas Sweed in this year’s draft.

Derek Anderson
Height: 6-6
Weight: 240
Team: Cleveland Browns
2 YR Avg: 17 TD
2007 Total: 29 TD
2008 Projection: 26 TD

Derek Anderson was a pleasant surprise for the Browns last year, but will they now look to Brady Quinn? The answer to that question is “no”. The team is saying that Anderson is their guy. He’ll be looking to build on last year’s success with the signing of Donte Stallworth. He already has a nice rapport with Kellen Winslow and Jamal Lewis looked good last year. They have a solid line so he should have plenty of time to find the open man, usually Braylon Edwards.

Drew Brees
Height: 6-0
Weight: 221
Team: New Orleans Saints
2 YR Avg: 27 TD
2007 Total: 28 TD
2008 Projection: 28 TD

Drew Brees rebounded from a slow start last year to post 4400 yards and 28 TD. He should have Duece McAllister back along side Reggie Bush, which will give him a little more breathing room. As usual, Marques Colston will be the go to guy as the Saints search for a #2 WR.

Matt Hasselbeck
Height: 6-4
Weight: 233
Team: Seattle Seahawks
2 YR Avg: 23 TD
2007 Total: 28 TD
2008 Projection: 25 TD

Hasselbeck will have his work cut out for him this year as Julius Jones looks to step in for the ineffective Shaun Alexander and Deion Branch will likely be lost for the year. The Seahawks will look to Bobby Engram and Nate Burleson to carry the load at WR. Rookie TE John Carlson will be forced into action as they look to fill a void left by Marcus Pollard.

Carson Palmer
Height: 6-4
Weight: 235
Team: Cincinnati Bengals
2 YR Avg: 27 TD
2007 Total: 26 TD
2008 Projection: 26 TD

Palmer is about as steady as you can get in the NFL today. He’s a big, skilled QB with weapons around him. Rudi Johnson couldn’t stay healthy last year, but Kenny Watson showed that he could provide a nice 1-2 punch. The Bengals finally cut ties with Chris Henry, but they still have Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmandzadeh. If Chad Johnson can play nice, Palmer will have another solid year.

Eli Manning
Height: 6-5
Weight: 218
Team: New York Giants
2 YR Avg: 23.5 TD
2007 Total: 23 TD
2008 Projection: 24 TD

The reigning Super Bowl MVP came into his own during last year’s playoffs and that will either take some pressure off of him or just make it worse. Either way, Eli will have plenty of backfield help as injuries have proven that the Giants have 3 capable backs in Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward and Amad Bradshaw. He’ll have 2 solid WR returning with Amani Toomer and Plaxico Burress. His value increases if Jeremy Shockey sticks around.

Philip Rivers
Height: 6-5
Weight: 236
Team: San Diego Chargers
2 YR Avg: 21.5 TD
2007 Total: 21 TD
2008 Projection: 23 TD

What’s not to like about Philip Rivers? He’s got the best RB in the NFL lined up behind him. He’s got the best TE in the NFL as a go to guy. Chris Chambers added a much needed threat along side Vincent Jackson. The problem is that he’s coming off ACL surgery and he hasn’t turned into the QB that the Chargers had hoped when they let Drew Brees go. That being said, he did show toughness last year that you have to love. If his knee isn’t as issue, he should have a nice year.

Donovan McNabb
Height: 6-2
Weight: 226
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
2 YR Avg: 18.5 TD
2007 Total: 19 TD
2008 Projection: 20 TD

There has never been a doubt that McNabb has talent and his primary weapon, Brian Westbrook, might even be a better receiving threat than LT. The problem is that Philly hasn’t had a top WR outside of Terrell Owens and McNabb hasn’t played a full 16 games since 2003. If he can find a way to stay healthy, he could return to Pro Bowl form.

David Garrard
Height: 6-1
Weight: 238
Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
2 YR Avg: 14 TD
2007 Total: 18 TD
2008 Projection: 24 TD

Garrard certainly made Jags fans forget about Byron Leftwich. He’s a strong QB that can buy time with his feet and he’s got 2 new WR. Jacksonville brought in Jerry Porter and Troy Williamson, two players who are in need of a fresh start. The two-headed monster of Fred Taylor and MJD will also help boost Garrard’s numbers.

Marc Bulger
Height: 6-3
Weight: 215
Team: St. Louis Rams
2 YR Avg: 17.5 TD
2007 Total: 11 TD
2008 Projection: 25 TD

Bulger is coming off yet another injury and he’s only managed to make it through 16 games once in the last 5 years. It will be the first time that Bulger lines up under center and doesn’t have Isaac Bruce out wide. The Rams will now rely on Drew Bennett to keep teams from doubling Torry Holt. Steven Jackson is a huge threat out of the backfield, but Bulger’s success will depend on the health of All Pro lineman Orlando Pace, who has suffered season ending injuries the last 2 years.

Kurt Warner
Height: 6-2
Weight: 220
Team: Arizona Cardinals
2 YR Avg: 16.5 TD
2007 Total: 27 TD
2008 Projection: 14 TD

After a solid 2007 campaign, Warner will likely be on the outside looking in as Matt Leinart gets every opportunity to step back in as the Cardinals signal caller. If Leinart doesn’t impress or gets injured, Warner has proven that he can take advantage of Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin at wideout.

Jay Cutler
Height: 6-4
Weight: 225
Team: Denver Broncos
2 YR Avg: 14.5 TD
2007 Total: 20 TD
2008 Projection: 22 TD

Cutler was recently diagnosed with diabetes, but he and the Broncos are confident that it won’t be an issue. He comes into his 2nd full season with Travis Henry and Selvin Young behind him, a great line in front of him and Brandon Marshall and Darrell Jackson split out wide. He did lose Javon Walker in the offseason.

Jon Kitna
Height: 6-2
Weight: 217
Team: Detroit Lions
2 YR Avg: 19.5 TD
2007 Total: 18 TD
2008 Projection: 21 TD

The Lions are trying to make it seem like everyone has a shot at the QB spot, but we all know that Kitna will lead the Lions again this year. With the release of Kevin Jones, Tatum Bell takes over in the backfield. Kitna will have 2 of the game’s top WR at his disposal, in Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson. That being said, their offensive line is terrible so his time in the pocket will be limited. The upside is that the Lions are usually behind and have to throw.

Jason Campbell
Height: 6-5
Weight: 223
Team: Washington Redskins
2 YR Avg: 11 TD
2007 Total: 12 TD
2008 Projection: 20 TD

Campbell is recovering from a hamstring injury but will be healed well before the start of the season. He’ll be returning to the West Coast Offense that he ran at Auburn and that should translate into the best year that we’ve seen out of Campbell so far. He has Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts behind him and Chris Cooley and rookie Fred Davis at TE. The Redskins also drafted Devin Thomas to go along with Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle El. Look for a good year out of Campbell.

Matt Schaub
Height: 6-5
Weight: 237
Team: Houston Texans
2 YR Avg: 5 TD
2007 Total: 9 TD
2008 Projection: 23 TD

Schaub was never really able to get on the same page with Andre Johnson, as both of them missed significant time due to injuries. Schaub is recovering from offseason shoulder surgery and is slated to be the team’s starting QB. Along with Johnson, he’ll have Ahman Green, Chris Brown and rookie Steve Slaton to help him move the chains.

Tarvaris Jackson
Height: 6-2
Weight: 226
Team: Minnesota Vikings
2 YR Avg: 5.5 TD
2007 Total: 9 TD
2008 Projection: 15 TD

Jackson will begin the season at #1 on the Vikings depth chart, but that doesn’t mean he’ll stay there if he doesn’t perform. Minnesota signed Bernard Berrian in the offseason and he’ll start along side the speedster Sidney Rice. The good news is that Jackson has Adrian Peterson behind him and the best O-line in football ahead of him. The bad news is that he has Adrian Peterson behind him and the best O-line in football ahead of him. Expect the Vikings to lean heavily on their talented RB and let the running game take them as far as it can.

Vince Young
Height: 6-5
Weight: 235
Team: Tennessee Titans
2 YR Avg: 10.5 TD
2007 Total: 9 TD
2008 Projection: 16 TD

Vince Young is very mobile, but he’s just not in a good situation. He has LenDale White leading the running game and they drafted Chris Johnson to replace Chris Brown, but White doesn’t have the kind of speed that the defense has to respect. The Titans brought in Alge Crumpler, but failed to get Young any help at WR. Don’t expect him to average more than a TD per game.

Jake Delhomme
Height: 6-2
Weight: 215
Team: Carolina Panthers
2 YR Avg: 12.5 TD
2007 Total: 8 TD
2008 Projection: 23 TD

Delhomme is coming off of Tommy John surgery, but appears to be on schedule to start the season. The Panthers did lose DeShaun Foster, but drafted Jonathan Stewart to go along with DeAngelo Williams. Delhomme will also have DJ Hackett added to the WR corp. with Muhsin Muhammad and Steve Smith. All eyes will be on Delhomme’s right elbow.

Aaron Rodgers
Height: 6-2
Weight: 223
Team: Green Bay Packers
2 YR Avg: 0.5 TD
2007 Total: 1 TD
2008 Projection: 20 TD

Rarely is there a time when someone has such big cleats to fill, but this is one of those times. Rodgers will be the first QB not named Brett Favre to lead the Packers since the Cold War ended. He’s been injury prone in his limited duty, but if he can stay healthy, he has a much-improved line and several weapons. Ryan Grant seems like the real deal and Donald Driver and Greg Jennings can give opposing secondaries fits.

Sage Rosenfels
Height: 6-4
Weight: 218
Team: Houston Texans
2 YR Avg: 9 TD
2007 Total: 15 TD
2008 Projection: 5 TD

Rosenfels filled in nicely for Matt Schaub last year and Minnesota was very interested in trading for him, but talks died off and Rosenfels will be the backup in Houston. If Schaub isn’t ready for the opener, the Texans will once again look to Rosenfels.

Jeff Garcia
Height: 6-1
Weight: 195
Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2 YR Avg: 11.5 TD
2007 Total: 13 TD
2008 Projection: 11 TD

Garcia leads the most crowded QB situation in the NFL. The Tampa Bay backfield is equally as crowded with Earnest Graham, Michael Bennett and Warrick Dunn sharing the load. Despite the amount of options behind him, Garcia won’t have much to work with at WR. Joey Galloway turns 52 this season and Ike Hilliard isn’t much of a threat. Don’t expect much from Garcia even if he holds the job all year.

Damon Huard
Height: 6-3
Weight: 218
Team: Kansas City Chiefs
2 YR Avg: 11 TD
2007 Total: 11 TD
2008 Projection: 5 TD

Huard was serviceable last year with a TD per game average, but Brodie Croyle will be the signal caller for the Chiefs this season. Barring injury, it’s not likely that Huard will see much playing time.

Chad Pennington
Height: 6-3
Weight: 225
Team: New York Jets
2 YR Avg: 13.5 TD
2007 Total: 10 TD
2008 Projection: 6 TD

Will it be Pennington or will it be Clemens? Smart money says that the J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets will look to the youngster. Don’t completely count Pennington out though, as last year didn’t go very smoothly for Clemens.

Brian Griese
Height: 6-3
Weight: 214
Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2 YR Avg: 5.5 TD
2007 Total: 10 TD
2008 Projection: 6 TD

Griese was brought to Tampa Bay via trade from the Bears. Even though he was Chicago’s best QB last year, he’ll be behind Garcia to start the year. Garcia is probably the smallest QB in the NFL, so Griese could see a few starts as an injury replacement.

Josh McCown
Height: 6-4
Weight: 223
Team: Miami Dolphins
2 YR Avg: 5.5 TD
2007 Total: 10 TD
2008 Projection: 11 TD

McCown is the favorite to land the starting gig for the Dolphins, but how long will he remain there? Chad Henne was a high 2nd round pick that the coaches are confident in, but he will likely be brought along slowly. Expect McCown to lean on Ronnie Brown if his knee will allow. Ernest Wilford brings some experience to the WR position and Miami hopes that Ted Ginn can live up to his draft position.

Quinn Gray
Height: 6-3
Weight: 240
Team: Houston Texans
2 YR Avg: 5.5 TD
2007 Total: 10 TD
2008 Projection: 1 TD

The outlook for Quinn to see playing time looks pretty gray. If lightening strikes twice and we see injuries to Matt Schaub and Sage Rosenfels, Gray will be the guy. I guess that stranger things have happened.

Chris Redman
Height: 6-3
Weight: 223
Team: Atlanta Falcons
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: 10 TD
2008 Projection: 8 TD

Redman is technically the starter right now, but with Matt Ryan being a Top 3 pick and the QB of the future, his time under center will be limited. Roddy White is about the only WR threat that Redman has at his disposal. Expect the Falcons to look to their ground game a lot this year.

Kyle Boller
Height: 6-3
Weight: 230
Team: Baltimore Ravens
2 YR Avg: 7 TD
2007 Total: 9 TD
2008 Projection: 8 TD

Boller has never amounted to what the Ravens had hoped and the selection of Joe Flacco begins a ticking clock for his time under center. It’s anyone’s guess as to when Flacco will get the keys to the offense, but it may depend on how Boller starts out. Todd Heap is again the go to guy with Derrick Mason out wide and Willis McGahee in the backfield. Jonathan Ogden anchors a solid line upfront.

Joey Harrington
Height: 6-4
Weight: 220
Team: Atlanta Falcons
2 YR Avg: 9.5 TD
2007 Total: 7 TD
2008 Projection: 3 TD

Harrington is sitting third on the depth chart behind Chris Redman and Matt Ryan. Harrington has experience on his side, but Redman is the starter and Matt Ryan will take over before too long.

Trent Edwards
Height: 6-3
Weight: 226
Team: Buffalo Bills
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: 7 TD
2008 Projection: 15 TD

The Bills seem to be content to hand the reigns over the Edwards and he’ll have help around him. Marshawn Lynch showed that he’s a force to be reckoned with and he’ll keep the defense honest. Lee Evans is as dangerous down the field as any WR in the NFL and the Bills also drafted the 6-5 James Hardy who is going to give DB’s a hard time because of his size and jumping ability.

Gus Frerotte
Height: 6-3
Weight: 225
Team: Minnesota Vikings
2 YR Avg: 3.5 TD
2007 Total: 7 TD
2008 Projection: 4 TD

It’s hard to believe that the Vikings would elect to go with the 36 year old Frerotte as the starter, but Tarvaris Jackson has been downright awful at times. Jackson should get every chance to remain the Vikings QB, but an injury or poor performance could lead to Frerotte seeing some time.

Brodie Croyle
Height: 6-2
Weight: 205
Team: Kansas City Chiefs
2 YR Avg: 3 TD
2007 Total: 6 TD
2008 Projection: 12 TD

Croyle hasn’t faired well as the starter in KC, but the Chiefs are looking to give him another chance to prove himself. He’ll be more successful if he can manage the game along with Larry Johnson and not have to win it by himself. Croyle has 2 other great weapons in Dwayne Bowe and Tony Gonzalez. If he can’t get the job done, don’t be surprised if there’s a change.

Kellen Clemens
Height: 6-2
Weight: 225
Team: New York Jets
2 YR Avg: 2.5 TD
2007 Total: 5 TD
2008 Projection: 15 TD

Clemens will likely start the season under center for the Jets, but he doesn’t have a lot of support around him. NY did bring in All Pro OL Alan Faneca to solidify the line. Thomas Jones didn’t get the job done last year, but he’ll be spelled by Leon Washington, who will be a great safety valve for the young QB. Laveranues Coles will team up with Jerricho Cotchery to form the WR tandem.

Trent Green
Height: 6-3
Weight: 217
Team: St. Louis Rams
2 YR Avg: 6 TD
2007 Total: 5 TD
2008 Projection: 4 TD

Green returns to St. Louis, but with a few less brain cells than before. He will replace Gus Frerotte as Marc Bulger’s backup and given Bulger’s injury history, he could very well see the field this year. If he does, don’t expect the Rams to ask him to do much more than get the ball to Steven Jackson and Torry Holt.

Luke McCown
Height: 6-4
Weight: 202
Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2 YR Avg: 2.5 TD
2007 Total: 5 TD
2008 Projection: 2 TD
McCown is about as buried as you can get when it comes to depth charts. Jeff Garcia will lead the Bucs this year and if he were to go down, Brian Griese would likely wind up under center if Garcia can’t go. Garcia has been threatening to retire unless the Bucs give him more money. Garcia is getting up in age (38), so there’s no telling what he may do. If he does retire, then there will be a quarterback by committee approach in Tampa Bay!

Todd Collins
Height: 6-4
Weight: 228
Team: Washington Redskins
2 YR Avg: 2.5 TD
2007 Total: 5 TD
2008 Projection: 3 TD

Collins looked good when given the chance last year, but this is clearly Jason Campbell’s team and Collins will only see playing time in a blow out or if Campbell goes down again. He did fill in very nicely for Jason Campbell last season & was put on this list because he had a 105.4 passer rating in Campbell’s place last season.

Shaun Hill
Height: 6-3
Weight: 235
Team: San Francisco 49ers
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: 5 TD
2008 Projection: 3 TD

Hill filled in admirably last year when he was called upon. He is coming off of finger surgery in the offseason, but it sounds like he’s ready to go. The Niners are saying that it’s an open competition for the starting QB role, but it’s hard to imagine that they wouldn’t go back to Alex Smith, if he’s healthy. If Hill does get the nod, he won’t have much to work with outside of Frank Gore and Vernon Davis.

JP Losman
Height: 6-2
Weight: 224
Team: Buffalo Bills
2 YR Avg: 12.5 TD
2007 Total: 4 TD
2008 Projection: 2 TD

How quickly things can change for a guy who was recently the QB of the future in Buffalo. Losman appears to be headed for a season of holding the clipboard as long as Trent Edwards doesn’t get hurt.

Rex Grossman
Height: 6-1
Weight: 217
Team: Chicago Bears
2 YR Avg: 13.5 TD
2007 Total: 4 TD
2008 Projection: 13 TD

Coach Lovie Smith says that Grossman and Orton are on “equal footing” for the starting QB position, but I believe that Grossman will get the job, unless he’s completely awful in training camp. Grossman will have nothing to work with again this year. Matt Forte is a rookie running back with a lot of potential, but it will take him time to grasp the NFL game! The best bet for Grossman would be to line Devin Hester up 30 yards deep in the backfield and try to simulate a punt return situation. He’d still probably find a way to get picked off. Did we mention that his receiving corps will consist of Marty Booker, Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen?

Kyle Orton
Height: 6-4
Weight: 217
Team: Chicago Bears
2 YR Avg: 1.5 TD
2007 Total: 3 TD
2008 Projection: 5 TD

Let’s face it. Even if Grossman gets the job, he’ll lose it at some point. Enter Kyle Orton. Like I mentioned above, there really isn’t a supporting cast in place. Outside of Hester, the biggest playmaker on the team could be Greg Olsen. If the 2nd year TE can continue to develop, he could be the go to guy.

Matt Leinart
Height: 6-5
Weight: 230
Team: Arizona Cardinals
2 YR Avg: 6.5 TD
2007 Total: 2 TD
2008 Projection: 14 TD

Leinart will be in a training camp battle with Kurt Warner, but I think that Leinart currently has the edge. If he can hold off Warner, he has the talent around him to succeed. Edge still has some tread left on the tires and you’d be hard pressed to find a better 1-2 punch than Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. The Cards also drafted LSU WR Early Doucet.

JaMarcus Russell
Height: 6-6
Weight: 260
Team: Oakland Raiders
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: 2 TD
2008 Projection: 14 TD

The time is now for the 1st overall pick in the 2007 draft. Russell is a huge QB with a rocket launcher attached to his shoulder. The Raiders have given him 2 talented, but very injury prone WR to work with this year. Ronald Curry is joined by Javon Walker split out wide. Oakland also drafted a potential superstar in Darren McFadden. He’ll be part of a crowded backfield with Justin Fargas, LaMont Jordan and Michael Bush. Expect Russell to struggle but show glimpses of why he was the top pick last year.

Alex Smith
Height: 6-4
Weight: 212
Team: San Francisco 49ers
2 YR Avg: 9 TD
2007 Total: 2 TD
2008 Projection: 15 TD

Smith is looking to return from offseason shoulder surgery and should be able to reclaim the starting QB role. We may see a lot of shorter throws as Smith works his way back to his old form. That means lots of swing passes to Frank Gore and short routes to Vernon Davis. The 49ers also added Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson in the offseason. If Smith’s shoulder isn’t ready to go, Hill will get the nod. The biggest bright spot on the team for Alex Smith is “Mad” Mike Martz because he forgets that he has a running back on all of his teams each season!

Brady Quinn
Height: 6-4
Weight: 227
Team: Cleveland Browns
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: 0 TD
2008 Projection: 4 TD

Brady Quinn got plenty of practice waiting for his name to be called at the draft and he’ll have to remain patient as Derek Anderson exploded onto the scene last year to make the Browns a contender. It’s hard to imagine the former Notre Dame QB taking over the starting gig barring an injury.

John Beck
Height: 6-2
Weight: 215
Team: Miami Dolphins
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: 1 TD
2008 Projection: 3 TD

Beck is technically second on the depth chart behind McCown, but it’s only a matter of time before Chad Henne starts to make his way to the top. Don’t forget that Beck wasn’t drafted that long ago either and he may get a couple starts, so that Miami can see what they have in the former BYU quarterback.

Billy Volek
Height: 6-2
Weight: 214
Team: San Diego Chargers
2 YR Avg: 0 TD
2007 Total: 0 TD
2008 Projection: 1 TD

Volek was once a fantasy football playoff hero when injuries forced him into action, but those days are long gone. He hasn’t thrown a TD in 2 years and will only play if Rivers can’t return from offseason knee surgery. We put him on the list because he’s one of the most intriguing back up options in the NFL. He Rivers goes down, watch out for Billy Volek to return to his 2004 form because of all the toys he has to play with on the Chargers.

Kevin Kolb
Height: 6-3
Weight: 218
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: 0 TD
2008 Projection: 5 TD

Kevin Kolb is widely considered to be the heir apparent to Donovan McNabb. McNabb has had shoulder problems in mini camp and Kolb would get the nod if McNabb can’t go. McNabb is starting to slowly breakdown, but has proven in years past that he can play through injury. Kolb only makes the list because McNabb has an ailing shoulder that could limit his time on the field early in the season.

Matt Ryan
Height: 6-5
Weight: 220
Team: Atlanta Falcons
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: N/A
2008 Projection: 8 TD

Ryan was the #3 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft. It’s yet to be seen whether Atlanta lets the rookie start from day one or if they’ll go with the veteran Chris Redman. Either way, Ryan was selected to be the QB of the future and make everyone forget about Michael Vick. Jerious Norwood and Michael Turner will be favorites of the rookie, but Atlanta did lose Alge Crumpler, who would have been a nice check down option. Roddy White developed nicely last season and will continue to only get better!

Brian Brohm
Height: 6-4
Weight: 225
Team: Green Bay Packers
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: N/A
2008 Projection: 4 TD

Brohm was the 3rd QB taken in this year’s draft. With Brett Favre retired, the Packers wanted to add depth behind the unproven and injury prone Aaron Rodgers. Brohm was very impressive at Louisville, but he’s battled injuries of his own over the last few years. When Rodgers eventually misses time, Brohm will get his chance.

Joe Flacco
Height: 6-6
Weight: 232
Team: Baltimore Ravens
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: N/A
2008 Projection: 6 TD

Flacco was the 2nd QB taken in April’s NFL Draft. The Ravens made a move to trade up and get their future signal caller. He’s a big kid with a rocket arm, but several experts think that he’s a bit of a project. Boller will likely start the season, but Flacco probably won’t watch from the sidelines for too long. Expect him to look to Todd Heap and Willis McGahee when he does get the call.

Chad Henne
Height: 6-3
Weight: 220
Team: Miami Dolphins
2 YR Avg: N/A
2007 Total: N/A
2008 Projection: 5 TD

Henne was the 4th QB taken in this year’s NFL Draft and is expected to be groomed as the Dolphins starter. He’ll probably be brought along slowly, but we are talking about a 4-year starter at a major program. After playing in front of 110,000 people in Ann Arbor, he probably won’t get rattled by the 4172 people that attend Dolphins games.

Brett Favre
Height: 6-2
Weight: 225
Team: N/A
2 YR Avg: 23 TD
2007 Total: 28 TD
2008 Projection: 0 TD

Arguably the greatest QB to ever set foot on an NFL field, Brett Favre walks away from a team that was one play way from the Super Bowl. It was a shock to many people and Favre himself still doesn’t seem 100% confident in his choice, but don’t look for #4 to return to Lambeau Field unless it’s to retire his number.