Stephania Bell

  (3:00 PM)

Good afternoon everyone - welcome to the injury chat! I will be with you until 3:30 - then will be headed to ESPN's Hot List - and my wonderful colleague Scott Engel will wrap up the second half with his sage fantasy advice. here we go...

Nick, Sonoma County, California

Thank goodness for fantasy football and wine (a lot) to get me through our poor Niners season thus far. I just hope they can save face a bit on Monday night. On to my question, how's Chad Johnson doing? Will he play? And if he does, will he be in there enough to matter for fantasy purposes?

Stephania Bell

  (3:02 PM)

Nick - You said it perfectly. As for Johnson, he has just been upgraded to Probable and is expected to start. Hard to believe after the crazy hit he took last Sunday, but he has looked good in practice and is ready to go.

Earl (Raleigh, NC)

Is Dallas Clark a go for this weekend?

Stephania Bell

  (3:03 PM)

Hi Earl: Clark is questionable at this stage - have not seen official Friday report yet - but after the concussion, he has not practiced - only walk throughs (until Thursday). Check back Sunday a.m. but it's not looking good.

John (Worcester, Ma)

Is Todd Heap going to play this week?!

Stephania Bell

  (3:05 PM)

Hi John: Finally it does look as if Heap will make the return. He was just upgraded to Probable and fully practiced on Friday. Sounds like he's feeling better.

Riaz, OH

Stephania, I love your injury updates. I really need this one! Do you think Branch plays Monday night because I need to know who to start between DJ Hackett and David Patten? Thanks a lot!

Stephania Bell

  (3:07 PM)

Hi Riaz: Thanks for reading. Branch sat on a cart with his foot elevated and wrapped for the last two days, so it does not look good. Now it's too early to know about seahawks practice today, but he is questionable at best, and not likely to see much time if he does go - and you may not know until Monday. Make other plans.

Kevin (Syracuse)

How is Jerrious Norwood?

Stephania Bell

  (3:07 PM)

Hi Kevin: Not good. Ankle seems to be really bothering him and he had not practiced all week. Petrino said he would only play if he could go full out. Pinner probably goes in his place.

Jon (San Diego)

I must be getting older. It's been so long I can't rermember what exactly is wrong with Marvin Harrison's knee. Can you tell us, and what is his prognosis for this week and the rest of the year? Thanks Stephania!

Stephania Bell

  (3:10 PM)

Hi Jon: No, it's not you. There are just so many injuries - it's ahrd to keep track. Trust me! Harrison had a knee bruise after falling directly on the kneecap on the turf. It is expected to be apotential on/off problem in the future. The Colts understand that a little more rest know gives him a better chance of finsihing out the season strong. He did practice on a limited basis (first time in a few weeks) but is still very questionable to play. Even if he does, it will likely be limited. Hard to project for remainder of year - if they play it right, he could be strong in final weeks. For fantasy purposed, it's hard to see extreme value before playoffs.

Jimmy (Atlanta, GA)

Given Bulger's thumb issue, would Kitna be a safer play or is he well enough to throw some TDs?

Stephania Bell

  (3:11 PM)

Jimmy: Good question. Bulger acknowledges the ribs and knee are better but thumb is still giving him some trouble. They wouldn't start him if they didn't think he could handle it, but, it could mean a fumble here or there. I still think he can throw the TD - but you know Kitna will be throwing the ball too.

Bernard (Princeton, NJ)

What exactly happened to Ben on Monday night? Is he good to go for Sunday vs CLE?

Stephania Bell

  (3:12 PM)

Ben landed hard on his right hip and suffered a contusion (deep bruise). he has practiced fully and is fine. Expected to start.

Curt (NC)

Does Gore play this week? When do you expect an official word will be made on his status for Monday?

Stephania Bell

  (3:13 PM)

Curt: It may not be official until Monday. Gore has been kept to limited work inpractice, including today - but that may be deliberate to rest him for Monday. Sounds like 49ers expect him to play. I doubt he will be 100%, but I think after resting last week, he should look better than the last time he played.

Kevin (Los Angeles, CA)

What's the deal with Travis Henry? He said he'd be ok after last week's game, but as time progresses, it just seems more and more serious. I have Selvin Young. I'd like a definitive one way or another. What's your prognosis on Travis' knee?

Stephania Bell

  (3:15 PM)

Kevin: Henry tweaked the same knee that he sprained pre-season. He has had a litany of injury problems, not to mention other issues. I'd be surprised, even if he plays if the Broncos rely on him exclusively. I think Young is going to get more popular with Shanahan.

Coach Taylor (Dillon, TX)

So, tell us about Larry Johnson. I assume he didn't practice today and you have nothing new to report?

Stephania Bell

  (3:16 PM)

Hey Coach: you're right. No practice - doubtful to out the Chiefs say (I think you can assume out). they will re-evaluate next week after swelling subsides further. Until those tests come back, we really can't project.

Jess(Philly)

The chats rule and I love to see a female leading a chat for all of us! What is the deal with Lendale White and not really practicing this week?

Stephania Bell

  (3:16 PM)

Hi Jess: Glad you're here. Lendale White is being protected a bit b/c of the toe - but no worries. He's the starter and should be good to go.

Kimmel (LA, CA)

Can we get our weekly Andre Johnson update?

Stephania Bell

  (3:18 PM)

Johnson now is looking strong. Should start next week and I think the wait will have been worth it.

Ed(Quincy,Pa)

Stephaia, Just want to say you bring a lot of class to the daily podcast. Thanks for the injury updates. How much do you see Shaun Alexander playing? I have Norwood(not looking good and others on byes), so I need to pick someone up and i'm looking at Morris. Thank you and keep up the great work.

Stephania Bell

  (3:20 PM)

Ed - Thanks so much - glad you're listening and writing in. Alexander is a tough call for me. he has not been himself this year - we could go on to speeculate about why. he has a banged up knee and ankle (all tests negative) and has not been practicing. Sounds Questionable (no official status yet and may be a GTD) - but who doesn't want to play on Monday night, especially if you have something to prove. Although I am a Niners fan, Alexander could have a great game against them, but I just don't know if I trust him. I think Morris definitely sees action, but it's hard to know how much. Should get a goal line carry or two though - probably worth the pick-up.

Tom (SoCal)

Just saw the Reggie Bush is questionable, Think he still plays on Sunday? Thanks

Stephania Bell

  (3:22 PM)

Bush, we are now told, has a bone bruise and as you say is Q. he has been limited in practice but it sounds as if that is partially with the intent to rest him in advance of the game. Sounds like he will play but you may not get anything more definitive before gametime (it's an early game). If he goes, I think he goes hard.

Lance (Charlotte)

Ok, I know he's probably not owned by many, but do you have an update on Vinny? The Panthers said he didn't practice due to an achilles flare up. What are the odds this keeps him out Sunday. Otherwise my beloved Panthers are starting Matt Moore with (gulp) Drew Olson as his backup!

Stephania Bell

  (3:24 PM)

Lance: I'm sure someone else cares about Vinny. Right now he is a Questionable start -a nd the fact that the flareup was Friday is not good. It's really probably a toss-up and will come down to how he feels over the next 48 hours - it does cause concern though that even if he goes, he does not last the entire game.

Hammerson (SC)

STEPH! Considering P. Holmes' returning from injury, should I go with Fargas (vs. Chi) or Holmes (v. Denver) as my #2 RB??

Stephania Bell

  (3:25 PM)

Hi Hammerson: Given that Holmes is starting against Denver, and that he is the clear starter, I think he's the better play this week. Don't really like the Raiders RBs this week.

Bill (Mt Airy, NC)

Reports are that Santonio Holmes didnt practice yesterday. Any worries?

Stephania Bell

  (3:28 PM)

Hi Bill: Lots of people asking about Santonio. Always a bit of a worry when yopu're talking hamstring, but Holmes has indicated that he expects to play this weekend. It doesn't sound especially severe, but definitely check the Sunday Inactives, just in case.

Paymon (Pensacola, FL)

Stephania, I'm desperate because I have to start Maurice Morris due injuries to my backfield. Whjat's the latest on Alexander?

Dream (NYC)

Yo Steph, chat with me about Branch. He was supposed to be back last week and now he may miss this weekend too. What's the jam deal?!?!? :) Thanks girl.

Scott Engel

  (3:30 PM)

Good afternoon everyone - I'll be here to answer the rest of your questions. Alexander is still iffy - it's not looking good for him to play

Stephania Bell

  (3:30 PM)

Branch has sat out so far this week with his foot wrapped and elevated. Not inspiring a ton of confidence. Even if he does go, I can't see him playing much.

Jay (NJ)

What's David Garrard's Status?

Scott Engel

  (3:31 PM)

He will be a gametime decision - Gray is still preparing as though he will be a starter

Stephania Bell

  (3:31 PM)

OK gang - Have to run - thanks so much to you all for coming. Check out the chat wrap b/c there were some questions repeated later and ther eare some posts on those. Thanks to Scott for stepping in!!! Good luck this wk-end!!

JEFF(Ottumwa,IA)

Will Gore's injury be an off and on injury or can he heal fully before the fantasy playoffs begin? Looking at trading him.

Stephania Bell

  (3:32 PM)

You may not get much in return for him. The more he rests, the better he will eb for your fantasy playoffs

Kevin (TX)

With Branch possibly not playing, should I use Hackett instead of Roy williams or Greg Jennings?

Scott Engel

  (3:34 PM)

I do like Hackett, but Jennings is a must-start right now and Williams has a good matchup

Tom (Yorba Linda, Ca)

Hi Steph...is Parker's knee enough of an issue to start either Kevin Jones or Brandon Jacobs over him this week? If not, who do you chose between KJones and Jacobs?

Scott Engel

  (3:35 PM)

Parker should be fine - I would take Jones in the close call over Jacobs - better matchup

JB (Villanova)

Even if Priest plays, any chance Kolby Smith still puts up some numbers-I'm desperate at RB.

Scott Engel

  (3:36 PM)

I actually like Smith better - younger, fresher RB with goal-line potential

Scott (KC)

Even if Heap does play, doesn't a hamstring injury hold a much higher degree of risk for an in-game injury? Would I be better off starting someone like Donald Lee?

Scott Engel

  (3:37 PM)

Always better to go with the more healthy guy, and Lee is quite underrated and productive

Cole (Kansas City)

I need a fill-in WR this week only. How do you like Nate Washington, I Bruce, Ted Ginn,jr, D Hester or Aaron Moorehead? HELP!

Scott Engel

  (3:39 PM)

I would go with Moorehead if he starts - Manning has some familiarity with him

Tom (Boston)

Scotty, be a sport. J.P, Warner or Cutler this week! Thanks.

Scott Engel

  (3:40 PM)

I would go with Losman - that Miami secondary looks pretty bad

mike-fl

steve smith or engram? any word on carolina's qb situation?

Scott Engel

  (3:41 PM)

I would give Smith one last shot against Atlanta - Moore may start, but he is not afraid to go downfield

Rich (NJ)

With both Henry and Alexander hurt.. Who should I start for flex: Roddy White, James Jones or Brandon Stokley?

Scott Engel

  (3:42 PM)

I would go with White - he has been quite dependable this season

Martin (Houston, TX)

Would you take a chance on LJ being healthy in a couple of weeks and trade Gore for him? Who do you like better for the rest of the season? Will either be healthy enough to help my playoff team? Thanks!

Scott Engel

  (3:44 PM)

The murky reports on LJ would make me avoid him. Gore should eventually return to action and I would rather depend on him

Charles (MD)

Scott, thoughts on this accepted trade: Last place team is trading Dallas Clark (he also has Shockey) to a playoff contender for Randle El. They are good friends and the one receiving Clark needs a TE badly, and I feel like Randle El is waiver wire material

Scott Engel

  (3:44 PM)

I don't think that trade is fair at all - I would personally overturn it

Ross (Long Island, NY)

Is Benson a better play than a less than 100% Gore? Also, is a Stokley better play than a less than 100% Harrison?

Scott Engel

  (3:46 PM)

When in doubt, you always have to go with the healthy guy and avoid the possible zero - use Benson and Stokley

Domingo (Los Angeles)

(Gotta loves those injuries) Flex play: Kolby Smith, DJ Hackett, Selvin Young?

Scott Engel

  (3:47 PM)

I like Hackett against the Niners, as the workloads of the other two guys are uncertain

Darrell ( NC )

Any upside with playing the NO Def this week over Dallas D? Flex - Chattman or Fargas?

Scott Engel

  (3:49 PM)

I like the Saints a lot, who have really improved defensively recently/ I like Chatman better - he ran hard in his first start and will do better this week

Tawoda (India)

What is the status on Rudi Johnson? I think he will be unproductive the rest of the season. Is Rudi and Andre Davis for Marshawn Lynch a fair trade? I want to veto it in my league! Thanks Engel!

Scott Engel

  (3:50 PM)

Rudi seems to be slow in getting back up to speed - that trade is certainly unfair

Evan (OH)

How is LenDale doing? Thanks.

Scott Engel

  (3:51 PM)

He played through the toe injury last week and I would not worry about him

Jason - Boston

Scott, a little incite, please! Would you trust Hackett over Patten this week. I'm going to drop Curry for one of them.

Scott Engel

  (3:52 PM)

I would prefer Patten - Hackett may continue to share time with Burleson at split end

Curt (Denver)

Should I drop someone to pick up Jags D rather than play NYG against

Scott Engel

  (3:54 PM)

I would actually use the Saints or Seahawks if available, and Jax after those two

Gabe (Birmingham)

should i drop d.branch for d.patten?

Scott Engel

  (3:56 PM)

I would use Patten this week, but Branch could return in Week 11 and you should drop someone else

Rob(LA)

Given that Andre Johnson has been injured, he is available. Should I drop Ward or Mason and pick up Johnson? Thanks!

Scott Engel

  (3:56 PM)

He should return after the bye - I would drop Mason

Chuck (Pittsburgh)

I'm in a big dynasty league that requires a lineup today rather than Sunday. I need help as I currently have Harrison, Branch and T. Jackson (hit by the bye week at QB too) that I need to know if I can plug in one or even none. HELP!!!!

Scott Engel

  (3:57 PM)

If you need to know now, I would not use any of those three, who could all be gametime decisions

Scott (Halkirk, Canada)

What do you foresee in your crystal ball for Steven Jackson this weekend? Is he back? Can I count on his production to lift me up?

Scott Engel

  (3:58 PM)

he is ready to go but will not carry a full load - don't lean on him too heavily - you may only get adequate numbers

HoogeTona(NJ)

Fargas or Holmes as #2 rb?

Scott Engel

  (3:59 PM)

Fargas for sure - I am not expecting much from Holmes - I expect more from Kolby Smith than Priest

Richard Gozinya (LA)

If Henry can't go would you start Selvin over Priest or Chatman?

Scott Engel

  (4:00 PM)

Definitely - and I would not consider Priest. Thanks a lot everyone!