NFC West (Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams, Arizona Cardinals)
Arizona Cardinals Fantasy Preview:
The biggest fantasy football question hanging over this team in 2008 is: who will be the starting quarter back? Matt Leinart has been good in spots and dreadful in others, and after bowing out last year with another injury, Kurt Warner stepped in and ignited the offense. There are rumblings that even though Leinart is doing and saying all the right things to get ready to begin the season as the starter, the coaching staff may not think he's best suited for the job. That battle will play itself out in training camp, but it was obvious to most that Warner ran the offense better than Leinart did. If Leinart doesn't make a huge leap forward this year, he may be looking for a job elsewhere soon. Stud duo WRs Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin should once again be electric on the field, and if the offensive line can ever come together, it could be a good season for Edgerrin James. However, offensive line issues have been in Arizona for a while now, so banking on a great season from Edge is dicey. Tight end Leonard Pope started showing his promise last year, and should continue to improve.
The defense returns standout linebacker Karlos Dansby, defensive end Bertrand Berry, cornerback Antrel Rolle, but lost linebacker Calvin Pace to the NY Jets. I don't see much that stands out about this defense that was middle-of-the-road last year at best. They may be decent fill-ins or waiver wire material, but I don't see them improving much from last year.
The Cardinals picked up corner back Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in the first round this year, and he has the skills to help this defense sooner than later, as does DE Calais Campbell (2nd rd). WR Early Doucet (3rd rd) is an intriguing prospect, but this year will be no better than Bryant Johnson's replacement as a #3 receiver. Leave him on the waiver wire.
Fantasy Surprise for 2008: Leonard Pope, TE
At 6'8", Pope is a huge red zone target, and he really came in his sophomore season last year. If this team finds itself throwing the ball as much as usual, or if injuries again creep into the wide receiving corps, Pope could find himself with another strong year. Remember, its much easier to find your tight end (esp. when he's 6'8") for dump offs when you're running for your life behind a sieve of an offensive line. Pope won't cost you much at all in drafts, and if you don't draft a TE until the later rounds, he's a good choice.
Fantasy Disappointment for 2008: Edgerrin James, RB
It would be easy to pick Matt Leinart, but don't forget about a declining Edgerrin James. The offensive line (and more times than not, it was truly offensive!) and age are catching up with James, and he doesn't hit the hole like he did in Indy. His draft value won't be what it was last year, but neither will his production. Buyer beware!
Best Fantasy Draft Value for 2008: Kurt Warner, QB
Warner has shown he knows how to move this offense, and how to utilize both Fitzgerald and Boldin well. If Leinart doesn't get his act together quickly, his short leash will be pulled and Warner should once again excel under center. He is a great late round gamble.
Next Up: Atlanta Falcons
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