Monday Chat Underway

Tom Kessenich · Post by **Tom Kessenich** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 6:55 am

All right folks, let the chat begin. Anything that you guys want to talk about is fair game. One important note, we've gotten a lot of responses so far about our proposed revised pay structure and so far the responses have been overwhelming in favor of staying in the event. Obviously, that's music to Greg and my ears and we really are grateful that you guys believe in what we're doing and want to take part in the debut of this event which we believe has a very bright future. Also, if you guys haven't contacted us, feel free to get in touch with Greg or I today by phone (715 445-4612 ext. 284 for Greg and 715 445-4612 ext. 653 for me) or via e-mail ([email protected] or [email protected]).

Now onto the chat ...

TamuScarecrow · Post by **TamuScarecrow** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:10 am

What effect will the Eagles' signing of Dorsey Levens have on Westbrook's fantasy value? I didn't change it any knowing the Eagles were going to sign someone but wanted to get your take.

Tom Kessenich · Post by **Tom Kessenich** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:13 am

Rick, I don't see Levens having a significant impact on Westbrook's production. At best, he'll get 5-7 carries a game and vulture some TDs, but Westbrook has a golden opportunity to be the guy here. There is an injury concern, but keep in mind he averaged 28 touches per game his final year in college, so he's handled a big workload in the past. I don't expect him to touch the ball that often this season, but I do think he'll be utilized heavily because, right now, he's the only legitimate RB they have.

nnoy · Post by **nnoy** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:23 am

What’s the word on James Stewart? Will he sign somewhere or is he done? Or did I miss him catching on with a team? A team in my league is stuck with him in a contract based keeper system and wants to deal him, may he have some value still? 1000 yd guy, then out for year, what’s next for the guy?

Tom Kessenich · Post by **Tom Kessenich** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:25 am

Stewart is still a free agent. The Dolphins didn't even want to bring him in for a workout which makes me wonder if they know something about him that isn't being revealed publically. If he can't find a job given the number of teams in need of some kind of RB help right now, it doesn't bode well for his future as an NFL RB.

TamuScarecrow · Post by **TamuScarecrow** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:29 am

Thanks, Tom. Now to the Booker trade. What's your take on how this will effect the offenses and defenses of both the Bears and the Dolphins. This should add value to both Chambers and Booker and be an opportunity for Terrell and Gage.

nnoy · Post by **nnoy** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:33 am

Chicago radio was reporting all pre-season that D. Terrell would compete for the #1 spot this year. I was not surprised at all to see that deal. I moved Terrell up about 20 spots on my board after the deal, Booker maintains his value from last year in my opinion instead of having it drop and Chambers ends up about back where he was prior to the Boston injury.

Tom Kessenich · Post by **Tom Kessenich** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:34 am

I upgraded Chambers. Yes he's going to receive fewer passes, but Booker is a good WR and that's going to alleviate the pressure Chambers was going to see. With Booker on the field, Chambers should get more one-on-one looks in the secondary and given his talent that's a tremendous plus for the Miami passing game.

Booker's value obviously goes down as he goes from being a No. 1 WR to a No. 2. I really liked him as a late-round value pick, but now I'd only consider him as a WR4 in a larger league.

It's a great opportunity for Terrell and Gage, but Terrell's been a dog and Gage is unproven. Throw in the fact Grossman is unproven at QB and I think the biggest beneficiaries of the trade in Chicago are Thomas Jones and Desmond Clark (if healthy) since both will likely receive more balls thrown their way. I'm not sold on the Bears' passing game just yet.

Offensively, I think the Dolphins' passing game has just gotten a major upgrade. The Dolphins are going to have to throw it a ton and now they have solid WR options.

Miami's defense takes a hit but they'd been planning on life without O-Gun anyway. Bears' D looks better now.

TamuScarecrow · Post by **TamuScarecrow** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:40 am

I agree with your assessment of the Bears and want to add to your assessment of the Dolphins that with two #1 wideouts, this could also open things up for Randy McMichael.

Tom Kessenich · Post by **Tom Kessenich** » Mon Aug 23, 2004 7:42 am

I agree about McMichael. The Dolphins still have MAJOR issues at QB, but with Chambers, Booker and McMichael the targets will definitely be there for whoever's starting.