Chat with Tim Graham
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Graham joined ESPN.com in 2008 after covering the Miami Dolphins for the Palm Beach Post. He previously spent eight years at the Buffalo News, where he was an award-winning NHL and boxing writer. The Baldwin-Wallace College grad also has worked for the Las Vegas Sun and Boston Herald.
Send in your questions and comments for Graham now and join him on Monday at noon ET!
Graham Archive: Columns | AFC East blog
Tim Graham (12:01 PM)
OK, guys. I'm here and ready to go. We surpassed two hours last time. I can't make any promises, but I have no problem doing that again. A point of order: Preference will be given to AFC East topics, but feel free to send questions or comments on any subject at all.
Alex (Auburn, AL)
How much do you think that addition of Favre helped Coles, Cotch, and T Jones? Can I expect a bounce back year (1200 yds, 5 td) from Jones?
Tim Graham (12:02 PM)
If Jones has a bounce-back year it will be due to the offensive line. The front is playing very well together. Factor in the long-ball threat from Favre, and Jones could be in for a big season -- theoretically. He has been invisible in the preseason so far. When it comes to fantasy football, it's a shame we can't draft team backfields because I think the combo of Jones, Washington and Chatman will be effective. I'm just not sure if I would pick Jones too early.
Erich: Tonawanda,NY
Tim, How will the Bills play it for their final pre-season game in regards to Trent Edwards playing time assuming he'll be healthy? Do you think a young starting QB needs all the playing time he can get even if it's against future grocery baggers and car salesman? Thanks!
Tim Graham (12:03 PM)
I think we'll learn the answer to that question within the next couple of days. Edwards' injury is considered minor, so that shouldn't be an issue. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets one or two series just to stay sharp. Otherwise, he won't have taken a game snap for 24 days in the season opener.
Rob (Fostoria, OH)
Hey Tim, I know better than to put too much stock into preseason games, but the Lions have looked pretty impressive in their 3 games. How excited should us Lions fans be based on what we've seen so far?
Tim Graham (12:04 PM)
I know exactly where you're coming from. The Dolphins have looked pretty darn good, too. I'm not ready to go out on a limb yet for the Lions, but I do like Kevin Smith a lot.
Luke(Massachusetts)
Hi Tim. Do you think Laurence Maroney will finally get 1000 yards rushing for the Pats this season?
Tim Graham (12:05 PM)
If he can stay on the field, he's a 1,000-yard back. His numbers also were affected by the Patriots' aerial assault from last year. If they balance their offense a little as many expect, then Maroney will benefit. Of course, LaMont Jordan could get some of his carries.
Brad (Naples, FL)
I heard that Langston Walker suffered a major bruise on his forearm. How long do those type of injuries usually take to heal? Do you think he will be ready for week 1? If not, what are the chances that the Bills will call up Jason Peters and make the first contact with him since last winter?
Tim Graham (12:06 PM)
I'm guessing he'll sit out the preseason finale and be ready to go for the opener. One thing I noticed on the replay was that even before he left the field he was down on a knee and using that left arm to prop himself up.
Ryan (Fairfax, VA)
Tim, how much do you think Vernon Gholston can contribute this season? Doesn't seem like he has got the new position down yet.
Tim Graham (12:07 PM)
He has a long way to go. Jets fans should hope he just doesn't become a liability as he learns the position. He's an inexperienced football player (started late in HS, left Ohio State early).
John.C(Bethlaham Park)
Tim, FF question for you! I have the 6th overall pick in my draft. And i want to draft either Peyton Manning or Randy Moss! What should I do? Its a PPR league, 6pts for all tds, and 1pt for every 20yds!
Tim Graham (12:09 PM)
That's a toughie. I'd go with Moss because I think Brady will be fine. Manning has a lot of mystery around him with the injury and doubts Harrison can be his old self.
Chad (Savannah, GA)
As a Saints fan I can't watch their preseason games here in GA. How have they looked, and how is Ellis doing?
Tim Graham (12:10 PM)
I don't get the Saints in South Florida either. Since I cover the AFC East I've been concentrating on those four teams throughout camp.
Steve (NY)
Gholston is having issues, but did you watch the game Saturday? You still see glimples, like when he almost had the sack on manning bull-rushing diehl and when he pushed Kevin Boss into Jacobs. The talent is there.
Tim Graham (12:11 PM)
Don't get me wrong ... the guy has phenomenal skills. He just needs to figure out how to make reads. He's never had to cover anybody before. At Ohio State he had one job, and that was to rush the QB. Now he has all sorts of responsibilities.
Nate (DC)
Tim, which Fins RB has more value in terms of fantasy right now, or week 1?
Tim Graham (12:11 PM)
Week 1, Ricky Williams. He might be the answer for long-term, too.
Larry(Mass)
Hi Tim. Do you think that Jerod Mayo will have an immediate impact on the Pats defense this year, sort of like Patrick Willis did in San Francisco, or Demeco Ryans in Houston?
Tim Graham (12:12 PM)
A Patrick Willis-type season is too ambitious of a comparison, but Mayo should make his presence felt this year. He has looked good.
Baltimore, MD
How did you like the Bills performance Sunday night? Also, when do you think Hardy will be healthy enough to play and do you feel he'll be enough of a #2 threat to help Evans?
Tim Graham (12:13 PM)
The Bills look pretty good in all facets last night. I think Hardy is being held out more as a precaution than anything else, but you always need to be concerned about a hamstring injury for a player who needs to sprint.
Doug (NY)
Odds we see Strahan in Giants uni this season?
Tim Graham (12:14 PM)
It's hard to say. This storyline is too fresh, and he's out of the country. Hard to get an early read, but it seems too obvious to pass up. I'll say 65-35 for.
Paul (Orchard Park, NY)
Given Trent Edwards injury-prone history, how do you see the Bills season ending if he goes down early in the season and Losman has to carry the team for most of the season?
Tim Graham (12:16 PM)
Edwards is no more proven than Losman. I like Edwards more because of his decision-making (and I'm not a fan of QBs who throw the ball up for grabs as much as Losman does). But Losman is one of the better backups in the league.
Pat (miami, fl)
How many games will the dolphins win this season?
Tim Graham (12:16 PM)
I'm going with 6 or 7. The AFC East plays a week schedule.
Ryan(NJ)
Leon Washington has been the best back on the team for over a year now. Any chance he gets the majority of the workload if TJ continues to fall into the line?
Tim Graham (12:18 PM)
With him, the question will always be about his size. If the Jets give up on Jones, I think Washington and Chatman would share the load.
Tim Graham (12:19 PM)
I'm a big fan of Chatman, by the way. He's very elusive and isn't afraid of contact. I saw him at Jets camp and noticed right away he had lost 10 pounds from when he was with the Dolphins last year.
Mike (Rochester,NY)
Hi Tim. I noticed Xavier Omon getting first team reps last night for the Bills. Do you think he could take Dwayne Wright's spot on the roster...especially with Wright's recent bout with fumblitis?
Tim Graham (12:20 PM)
Yes, he can. In fact, last night might've done it. I do know Omon was on the outside looking in a couple weeks ago. But they've gotten a little down on Wright and gave Omon a chance to show what he can do. He came through last night.
SprungOnSports (Long Island)
How much will Chad Pennington's familiarity and experience with the rest of the division and conference help his team in week one and going forward?
Tim Graham (12:21 PM)
Week 1 especially. I think the Dolphins will have a big edge on the Jets at quarterback. Pennington went against the Jets first-team D all offseason. Favre's still learning.
Ryan (Fairfax, VA)
Kris Jenkins and Calvin Pace have looked stellar so far, how much better are the Jet's defensively this year?
Tim Graham (12:22 PM)
They'll be significantly better because of Jenkins most of all. He's a monster. Pace is looking like he was worth all the attention he got in free agency.
Will J (Portland, OR)
How many teams have dual back situations? Carolina, Miami, New Orleans, Oakland, NY Giants, Denver, Chicago.........who else am I missing?
Tim Graham (12:23 PM)
I'd hate to bog things down by trying to figure that out off the top of my head, but drop a line to my mailbag and we'll sort it out.
Robbie (Chicago)
What kind of a season will Lynch have for the Bills this season?
Tim Graham (12:24 PM)
He needs to have a big one. A lot of it will depend on how the Jason Peters holdout situation pans out. But Peters or not, Lynch is pretty much all the Bills have.
Tim Graham (12:24 PM)
Bills fans are getting upset I'm not talking up Fred Jackson as Lynch's backup. But he's a big dropoff.
Chris (Broadview Heights, OH)
I know this is AFC East oriented but has the public view of any team changed more than the Browns because of the pre-season? A lot of people had them as a popular pick to do well this year and now I'm hearing losing season talk. How much stock do you take in these pre-season performances?
Tim Graham (12:26 PM)
Not much stock at all. I still like the Browns enough to have picked them to win the AFC North. But they'll take their lumps. The AFC North plays a wicked schedule this year.
Andy (Albany, Ny)
How do you see Chad Pennington performing for the Dolphins? He seems like he's a good fit for the offense with his accuracy and toughness, but isn't he in the same situation he was in with the Jets? He's got a young talented QB in Henne backing him up just as Clemens did in NY. Do you think this affected him in NYC and do you think the same will occurr in Miami? He has to give them the best chance to win long term.
Tim Graham (12:27 PM)
Pennington has poise and makes great decisions. He seems to be picking up the offense without any trouble. The biggest benefit, though, could be as a mentor for Chad Henne. I can't think of another active QB's mind I would want a rookie to have access to.
Ryan(NJ)
All of the improvement aside regarding the Jets front 7, shouldn't they be concerned over thier lack of depth at the other CB? (And deeper, seeing as how you need 4 more than competent corners)
Tim Graham (12:28 PM)
Yes, depth is a problem, especially with Justin Miller out one to three weeks with a dislocated toe. But there is some superstar potential in the defensive backfield. They'll have to hope the complementary parts hold up.
Mikey(Lackawanna,NY)
Do you think Paul"POZ"Posluszny has all the tools to be a Pro Bowl caliber MLB?
Tim Graham (12:29 PM)
Without a doubt.
steve(mass)
Is this Rodney Harrison's last year of his career?
Tim Graham (12:29 PM)
That's a tough one. A lot of people have been answering "yes" to that question for five years.
Andrew (Ohio)
The biggest problem with the dolphins is...
Tim Graham (12:31 PM)
I said I can only stay for two hours. ... I'll have to say the defensive backfield. But I can probably give two or three more answers and not be wrong.
Geoff (NY)
Who has the better year, Ted Ginn Jr. or Lee Evans?
Tim Graham (12:32 PM)
As a receiver, Lee Evans for sure. If you want to factor in the return game, then Ginn. I think Ginn will have multiple TD returns.
Tracy (orlando, FL)
The pats have looked terrible so far. Not just their QB's, but the offensive line hasn't been very good either. How will the pats do this season?
Tim Graham (12:34 PM)
I still think they're the class of the division as long as Tom Brady is on the field. If Matt Cassel or Matt Gutierrez have to play an extended stretch, it will sink their season.
Pat (Miami)
Can we officially say that the Dolphins should inspire enthusiasm at this point?
Tim Graham (12:35 PM)
A preseason victory over the Chiefs -- no matter how dominant -- should not get you excited about the playoffs. But the team is headed in the right direction, and that should be exciting for Dolfans.
Tom (Erie, PA)
What's your prediction on the Jason Peters situation? Does he comeback for Game 1 or does this get even uglier?
Tim Graham (12:36 PM)
I go back and forth on that the more I learn. It just doesn't make sense that two parties who need each other so badly can't reach an accord. But both sides are digging in deep pretty deep. This certainly can get uglier.
Anthony (NYC)
Tim I've seen some replays of the Pats games, and I got a feeling that come week 4 or 5 Mayo will be a starter. I know the Pats dee is complex but what do you think?
Tim Graham (12:37 PM)
He's good enough to start earlier than that. He just needs to gain Belichick's trust.
Steven (Toronto)
How long till the Bills are up here?
Tim Graham (12:37 PM)
You're asking me to predict when Ralph Wilson will die.
John(Buffalo)
Do you think if the Bills use Roscoe Parrish properly he can turn out to be like a Wes Welker?
Tim Graham (12:39 PM)
I thought I had an easy answer to that question. I have to say I don't know. I think Parrish has amazing skills. He needs to be in a system where we can find out.
Andrew (Ohio)
Obviously R. Williams has been the biggest surprise of camp. Whos the second biggest surprise?
Tim Graham (12:40 PM)
Do you mean Ricky Williams?
James (Albany)
You really think our Bills are gone as soon as Raplh is?
Tim Graham (12:40 PM)
It'll take some time after that, but at least until then, the Bills are safe in Orchard Park.
Andrew (Ohio)
If Tom Brady played for the phins how many wins would the dolphins get this year?
Tim Graham (12:42 PM)
8 or 9 ... Now don't go back and find my Pennington answer and accuse me of saying Brady is only one or two wins better than Pennington. A QB can make only so much difference without the tools around him, and the Dolphins WRs are questionable.
Andrew (Ohio)
Yes, I thought I put phins in there. Sorry!!
Tim Graham (12:44 PM)
You're on fire with the questions ... Second biggest surprise of Dolphins camp has been rookie G Donald Thomas, a sixth-round pick who was discovered at UConn playing pickup basketball and didn't start there until his senior season (last fall). Now he's starting in the NFL.
David Fairborn, OH
Would you put $$ on Marshawn Lynch meeting or exceeding last years stats? I don't know where I heard the stat, but on the radio I heard only 10% of 2nd year running backs are better than they were the year before (statwise)
Tim Graham (12:45 PM)
For what it's worth, Sports Illustrated's Peter King has Lynch finishing second for the NFL rushing title.
Goodie (Tampa)
Ok... Tim give me your projection for Ricky Wiliiams... He has looked amazing in pre-season.
Tim Graham (12:46 PM)
If they keep hammering away with him, I think he's a 1,000-yard back and the favorite to win Comeback Player of the Year.
Andy (Albany)
Is McKelivn the #2 corner going into week 1? Does that mean Youboty gets the axe?
Tim Graham (12:46 PM)
Yes and probably.
Evan (Boston)
Are the Pats in trouble if Matt Light, who has been M.I.A. quite a while, has an injury that prevents him from playing most of the season?
Tim Graham (12:47 PM)
Their offensive line is struggling right now. They need help.
Frank(Philly)
Any word on Wes Welker's rib injury? I would think if he was out for an extended period of time that would take some pop out of that offense.
Tim Graham (12:48 PM)
The next time we get inside information on a Patriots injury will be the first time. I wish I had something for you, but it's easier to get Obama's ATM numbers.
Ryan(NJ)
Does Kerry Rhodes finally get the pro-bowl berth he deserves this year?
Tim Graham (12:49 PM)
He sure does deserve it. I think the added attention the Jets get from the national media because of Favre will cause many more to notice how good Rhodes is. And Revis, too.
TC : Charlotte, NC
Do the Dolphins keep 4 QBs on the roster? If not, who goes? Thanks!
Tim Graham (12:50 PM)
On a team with so many positions in flux, four QBs are a luxury. But I guess it's possible. Interesting thought.
Dave (Denver)
Tim - I think the next time anyone gets an honest answer on Pats injuries will be the first time in the BB era.
Tim Graham (12:51 PM)
That's what I meant. I want to apologize to Rod Rust for any misunderstanding.
leo (orlando)
the Ravens to me have weak QBs, but who do u think would start or have the most impact at the QB position?
Tim Graham (12:53 PM)
It has to be Joe Flacco or Troy Smith. The Ravens have to get ready for the future. Between them, Flacco is the man. So unless the Ravens need to protect him from totally ruining his confidence, I say play him.
Tim Graham (12:53 PM)
But I do know that offensive coordinator Cam Cameron is against rookie QBs running the show.
Jimmy(Boston)
Tim, who do you think will lead the Patriots in sacks this season?
Tim Graham (12:54 PM)
Vrabel had almost twice as many as the next guy, so I'll go with him.
michael (las vegas, nv)
im wondering if you think the raiders can win 8 games this year. it is a weak division
Tim Graham (12:55 PM)
And the Raiders are a big reason why the AFC West is a week division.Eight wins sounds like an awfully bold prediction.
chris (dallas)
NOBODY circles the wagon better than the Buffalo Bills...im thinking playoffs {finaly}what do you think
Tim Graham (12:56 PM)
They're good enough.
Ryan, Ohio
What can you tell me about the CB Miami traded to the Browns, Travis Daniels?
Tim Graham (12:56 PM)
He's pretty much useless in man-to-man coverage, but he can be serviceable in nickle and dime packages.
David Cincinnati, OH
I think the Benagals will always be the Bungles :(
Tim Graham (12:57 PM)
They sure do always seem to find a way to screw up a talented roster.
Mark (NC)
Are the Panthers going to be that good or are the Redskins really that bad? Because that first half was fun to watch.
Tim Graham (12:58 PM)
Unfortunately, I haven't caught that game on NFL Network yet. I was at the Dolphins-Chiefs game Saturday night.
Greg(Buffalo)
Do you think this is Dick Jaurons last season in Buffalo if they dont make the playoffs?
Tim Graham (12:59 PM)
Not unless there's a total collapse. He's highly thought of by Bills management.
Tom(Boston)
Tim-Do you think Richard Seymour is the best right end in the league?
Tim Graham (12:59 PM)
No. Jared Allen is.
michael (las vegas, nv)
do you think zorn is the guy to lead the redskins?
Tim Graham (1:00 PM)
Zorn might be good enough, but I find it hard to believe he was the best choice.
Andy (Albany, Ny)
What are your thoughts on the results of the qb competitions in Arizona and SF? While they're not totally the same, we see two young, high first round draft picks as backups. Do you think Smith or Leinart should've started? Do you think they are busts? Will any pan out?
Tim Graham (1:02 PM)
Leinart has been lousy. Smith I haven't seen much of yet this preseason. It's too soon to call either a bust, but if you're a fan of those teams you're justified to have seen something by now.
justin (pa)
do you think the vikingspassing game will folurish this year
Tim Graham (1:03 PM)
The words Tavaris Jackson and flourish haven't been used in the same sentence since Alabama State. I'll have to say no.
Matt Leinart, Phoenix
Hey, at least I still get chicks..
Tim Graham (1:03 PM)
Don't forget all that money ...
cyrus (boston)
Do you think Patriots wide reciver Chad Jackson is going to have any effect this year?
Tim Graham (1:05 PM)
It's hard to say with him. He's coming off an impressive night against the Eagles, but with Moss, Welker and Gaffney on the roster it'll be hard for Jackson to make regular contributions.
Michael(Mass)
Tim, is Adalius Thomas among the top 5 ROLB in the nfl?
Tim Graham (1:06 PM)
I don't know. I've only charted by league-wide depth cart through the defensive line. I'll be getting to the linebackers sometime this week.
kent(ma)
Tim do you think Adalius Thomas is among the top 5 ROLB's in the league?
Tim Graham (1:07 PM)
Are you and Michael texting each other?
Curtiss Turner (Charleston, SC)
Honest? NE? You're talking about the same team that used a snow plow to clear away for a place kicker - honest? Not a chance
Tim Graham (1:08 PM)
A couple guys in sunglasses and suits are approaching your front door.
Xander (Philly)
What can I expect to see from Ronnie Brown early in the season?
Tim Graham (1:09 PM)
Brown still looks a little tentative on that knee. I think Williams gets the bulk of touches for the first few weeks.
Char (Hoboken, NJ)
Hey Tim - do you really believe that the Bills have finally found an answer to their offensive coordinator problems in Turk Schonert. I like what I see so far - but anything is better than um the last 8 years.
Tim Graham (1:10 PM)
The encouraging thing is the offense has looked good regardless of who the QB has been. Edwards and Losman both have looked sharp in moving the ball downfield.
Anthony (NYC)
Maybe if Leinart can round up the old gang from USC & Pete Carroll he could be the over hyped success that he once was.
Tim Graham (1:10 PM)
Don't forget Matt Cassel ...
Wayne-o (nyc)
Bill Parcells is hated by many because of his attitude and arrogance, but isn't he the best GM/Exec in football when it comes to building a team? First he did it with the Patriots, then the Jets, then Cowbodys, and now the Dolphins. Who is better at building a team that can compete for the future rather than a 1-3 year span? A bastard, but a master. Don't you agree?
Tim Graham (1:10 PM)
I agree on all counts.
Bryan, Ohio
Is Ryan Pontbriand one of the top 5 long snappers in the league?
Tim Graham (1:11 PM)
You're starting to get an idea of the questions I'm NOT answering.
John(Ma)
What will be the Pats record this year?
Tim Graham (1:12 PM)
I'm going with 11-5.
Kate (Boston)
I see the Patriots haters are in full swing as well.
Tim Graham (1:12 PM)
Indicative of a great team.
Anthony (NYC)
Jets rookie Dwight Lowery has been impressive in the preseason so far he's in the mix for starting RCB position. Yet it's hard to judge him fairly until he's played against a quality or top notch WR. Whats your thoughts on Lowery?
Tim Graham (1:14 PM)
I'm going only off what I saw at training camp ... But he he what it takes. He just seems to have great instincts.
TC (Charlotte, NC)
I'm disappointed that WR Ernest Wilford hasn't really done much after getting a nice deal from the Dolphins. Surprise if Wilford is cut?
Tim Graham (1:15 PM)
You're not as disappointed as Bill Parcells is. A $6 million guarantee and he was playing at the end of the game Saturday, finishing with zero catches. I would be surprised if he gets cut only because of the money. Based on performance alone, he might be gone this week.
Jonathan (florida)
Tim, can you give us your afc east predictions?
Tim Graham (1:16 PM)
1. Patriots, 2. Jets, 3. Bills, 4. Dolphins But 2 and 3 easily could flip-flop.
char (hoboken)
im thinking mckelvin isn't the number 2...still held up by greer...but the way youboty has played it may be reggie corner (inexperience) keepin the practice squad bench warm this year. but then again mckelvin was scorced for a 94 yd play yesterday night.
Tim Graham (1:17 PM)
No way Corner makes it to the practice squad without another team plucking him off waivers.
Josiah (MA)
Who will have the better season?Tony Romo or Peyton Manning?
Tim Graham (1:18 PM)
Boy, that's a good question. The mystery around Manning's knee is forcing me to say Romo right now.
Josiah (MA)
Do you think if Donte Stallworth stays healthy hw will have a big year with the browns?
Tim Graham (1:19 PM)
If Braylon Edwards stays healthy, too.
C. Weis, (Cleveland )
Josh McDaniels is over-rated. The Pats preseason offense implosion proves that without Super Tom and the Freak, the perfect 07 season would never have happened.
Tim Graham (1:20 PM)
This is coming from Cleveland? McDaniels is a John Carroll grad.
Tony Romo (Dallas, TX)
So do you think I will actually win a playoff game this year?
Tim Graham (1:21 PM)
You and Wade Phillips will get your first together.
Alex (Auburn, AL)
"without Super Tom and the Freak, the perfect 07 season would never have happened." This just in.....the world is round.
Jonathan (florida)
If the Jets don't make the playoffs it will be because of what?
Tim Graham (1:22 PM)
An inability of their quarterback to pick up the system quickly enough they don't give away too many games.
Brett(San Diego)
Do you have your league wide depth chart for d-line up anywhere?
Tim Graham (1:23 PM)
Like a GM, I keep my rankings private.
Tedd Ginn
Am I fast?
Tim Graham (1:24 PM)
Very, very fast.
Jesse (Boise, ID)
Any chance Buffalo trades Youboty to Cleveland? They are in need of CB's and one of their defensive coaches used to be at Ohio State?
Tim Graham (1:25 PM)
Maybe, but it looks like that ship sailed when the Browns picked up Travis Daniels last week. There were talks between the teams, but the Bills wanted more than the Browns wanted to give. They picked up Daniels for a seventh-round draft pick.
Mike (Hollywood, FL)
Tim, could you see T. Jones having a R. Grant type season for the Jets? Improved OL, two talented WR's and now Favre throwing the ball.
Tim Graham (1:26 PM)
You would think all of those factors would add up, but Jones hasn't looked anything but mediocre in the preseason.
Paul (Toledo, OH)
Seems like a lot of Ohio/Cleveland talk today, which is awesome.
Tim Graham (1:26 PM)
Mind your own business, Toledo.
Tim Graham (1:27 PM)
Just kidding ... all Buckeyes welcome.
John Beck (Miami...for now)
Any recommendations for real estate agents?
Tim Graham (1:27 PM)
Not in South Florida. Let me know if you land in Buffalo or Cleveland.
Steve (Hoboken)
Hey Tim. Any wide receiver from the Bears, Bucs, Vikes, Raiders, Jags, Titans, or 49ers going to put up decent numbers this year?
Tim Graham (1:28 PM)
That's a pretty miserable group there. Let me think on that ...
Tim Graham (1:29 PM)
Berrian, I guess.
Wayne-o (nyc)
True or False: Robert Royal is top 5 fantasy tightend this year?
Tim Graham (1:30 PM)
False, but he's a great steal in a league where your owners don't follow preseason stats too much.
Brad(NM)
Do you know if ANYBODY has contacted or shown interest in Shaun Alexander?
Tim Graham (1:31 PM)
I don't know of anything going on with Alexander right now.
Char (hoboken)
how much slower did the pats just get with the addition of another old past his prime safety in Lynch?
Tim Graham (1:32 PM)
From Gateway to Commodore 64
Jonathan (florida)
Calvin Pace looked like a monster against the Giants Sat. Is 10 sacks out of the question for him this year?
Tim Graham (1:33 PM)
Not at all, but if Vernon Gholston can figure out the NFL, then Pace's numbers will be even more impressive.
Glenn (NY)
Tim, any chance that Thomas Jones is a top 10 fantasy rb this year?
Tim Graham (1:34 PM)
I wouldn't think so.
Blake (nyc)
Fact of fiction: Shifty Leon Washington has the best open field moves of any running back in the league?
Tim Graham (1:35 PM)
He's pretty shifty,but that's a big statement.
David Fairborn, OH
Who becomes Miami's leading tackler now that Z. Thomas is gone? Is it Channing Crowder?
Tim Graham (1:37 PM)
Crowder will be the top tackler this year. Whenever Thomas was out (and Crowder was healthy) Crowder piled them up.
John(Buffalo)
I think Jack Kemp/Jim Kelly/Thurman Thomas/Other will help keep the BIlls in Buffalo? Let alone the NFL commisioner is a Western New Yorker!
Tim Graham (1:39 PM)
If Ralph Wilson's will mandates the Bills be sold to the highest bidder, then it's going to be difficult to compete with Ted Rogers' money in Toronto. Jim Kelly and Thurman Thomas are local sports heroes, but they don't have a fraction of that kind of money.
kiran (philly)
Clearly Blake has never heard of Brian Westbrook.
paul union beach
If Favre starts thowing ridiculous passes and ints (ex: 2005-06) and jets fans respond with boos do you think it could pressure him to more mistakes and makes him regret leaving the ever forgiving packer fan base?
Tim Graham (1:41 PM)
If any NFL player can maintain his swagger, it's Favre.
Josiah (MA)
Clearly blake has never heard of LT.
Bob (NY, NY)
Jets better with Farve or Pennington (it seems you have alot of questions as to how well Farve picks up the offense)? Is Brett Ratliff the long term answer?
Tim Graham (1:44 PM)
I don't know if the Jets were better with Pennington because of the dynamic on the roster. The Jets wanted Clemens to win the job, but he couldn't do it. There as a lack of confidence in the position. A change had to be made. As for Ratliff, every time I've seen him he has been effective. Clemens has not. But the Jets have invested a lot more in Clemens. He'll get every opportunity.
Jimmy ( Philly)
Tim, what role do you think Ricky Williams will play for the Dolphins this year. How many touches will he get and do you think he can still be an impact player in the NFL. Also, What are the Steelers chances at winning the super bowl are?
Tim Graham (1:46 PM)
I think Ricky Williams can have a big year, as we've already discussed. The Steelers will win as long as their line holds up, and that's a big question mark.
MJ Gill (Boston, MA)
Is there a better all around defensive player than Demarcus Ware?
Tim Graham (1:47 PM)
He's a great place to start that conversation, especially now that Shawne Merriman is out.
Mike (Avondale, AZ)
Tim, what do you think of Warner getting the starting job over leinart for the Cards this year?
Tim Graham (1:48 PM)
It's bad news for Cardinals fans. Warner is a great guy and an accomplished vet, but a top-10 draft choice should be showing more by his third season.
Jonathan (florida)
Is Mangini's job on the line if they have another terrible season?
Tim Graham (1:49 PM)
A terrible season after the money spent and the moves made by the front office should put Mangini to the curb.
Xander (Philly)
What are your thoughts on James Hardy?
Tim Graham (1:50 PM)
If Hardy can catch the ball consistently, he could be a key to the offense and open up the possibilities for Lee Evans. The Bills have needed a receiver with that kind of size.
Jon Young (st. louis)
do you think Aaron rodgers will do well considering th packers signed Ryan Grant and ther well kept defense?
Tim Graham (1:52 PM)
Rodgers will be fine -- if he played in a vacuum. He'll need to have a truly special season to eliminate the unfair Favre comparisons.
Anthony (NYC)
Remember the fact that Edge doesn't have game like Reggie Bush is whats holding Leinart back, & Boldin is no Mike Williams & Fitz isn't Dwayne Jarrett.
Tim Graham (1:52 PM)
So what you're saying is the Cardinals aren't as good as a college team?
Bob (chicago)
With all the injuries in the league already, should the NFL cut their preseason games from 4 to 2?
Tim Graham (1:53 PM)
It's difficult because the preseason is a money grab for the individual teams. This is the time for the big-market teams to make their TV money without having to share it. Jerry Jones will not be giving up two preseason games.
Chad Pennington
I went from not being wanted in the swamp to being adored in south beach...not bad eh?
Tim Graham (1:54 PM)
Pretty sweet. And you'll win more games than you did last year.
MJ (Boston)
Who's more over-rated, DeAngelo Hall or Al Harris?
Tim Graham (1:55 PM)
Al Harris
Wayne-o (nyc)
Why don't NFL teams go after these world class sprinters and throw a uniform on their back along with a good amount of money? You take Usain Bolt and run him on a straight sprint, no cornerback will be able to touch him. It would totally change the offense. A saftey would have to play center field, and the other wr's or running game would be much more open. The only questions would be "could he hold up?" and "does the qb have enough time."
Tim Graham (1:56 PM)
The only resistance in Beijing was the air. There's a little more to deal with while running around NFL defenders.
Jonathan (florida)
Which opening day games are you looking foward to seeing the most?
Tim Graham (1:56 PM)
I'll be at the Jets-Dolphins game. Doesn't get much more interesting than that.
Rob: (Minneapolis)
What kind of year should we expect from Jabar Gaffney? I think he could be huge.
Tim Graham (1:58 PM)
Only if Brady throws two footballs on every play. Gaffney is a talented receiver, but he's the third option.
Jason (Gendron)
Usain Bolt's 40-meter dash time would be 3.876 seconds if he ran as fast as he did at the Olympics.. WOW..
Tim Graham (1:59 PM)
And Brodie Croyle still wouldn't have enough time to find him.
RJ (Hartford)
Usain Bolt = Willie Gault... servicable at best (if you're lucky).
Tim Graham (1:59 PM)
Willie Gault was better than serviceable.
Paul (Toledo, OH)
You'll be at the Jets-Dolphins game? But the Boys are coming to Cleveland! That HAS to be the game to watch!
Tim Graham (2:00 PM)
I do cover the AFC East, but I will be paying attention to that game for sure.
Tim Graham (2:01 PM)
OK, guys. We're at the two-hour mark. I few more and then I have to shut it down.
Nick (Boston)
Will you boldly predict the Pats' five games that they lose?
Tim Graham (2:03 PM)
No, because going through a schedule and picking out the winners and losers in August is folly.
RJ (Hartford)
HA! Vance Johnson was better than Willie Gault (barely, but just... similar to how much better than servicable Gault was).
Tim Graham (2:04 PM)
Gault had three seasons of 800 yards or more and two seasons with seven or more touchdowns. I think you need to rethink your definition of serviceable.
Al (Richmon, VA)
Whatcha think about the KC offense and LJ this year? How bad is their OL?
Tim Graham (2:06 PM)
The whole team looked pathetic Saturday night against the Dolphins.
Eric, NY, NY
Can Leon Washington become a fulltime starter in the NFL? It seems like his skill-set is similar to Reggie Bush or Warrick Dunn (though not quite as talented as them) and he seems to make something happen when he gets the ball. Also, Thomas Jones has looked pretty lousy so far.
Tim Graham (2:08 PM)
I agree with your assessment. Whether Washington can be a full-time starter with the Jets seems to be a question of whether the coaching staff can be convinced he's durable enough.
Tim Graham (2:09 PM)
Hate to end it, folks, but we've been at it for 2:10.
Tim Graham (2:09 PM)
I'll leave James with the last thought ...
James (NY)
New flash: Thomas Jones and Steven Jackson will be great fantasy backs this year, because they were awful for my team last year, and that seems to be the way my luck goes. That'll be all.
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