Brendan Roberts

  (3:00 PM)

Good afternoon, all!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:00 PM)

This is a special chat, in that it takes us right up to the NFL trade deadline (4 p.m. ET). So far hearing some rumors about hot phone lines, but nothing to report. Other than Pacman Jones being suspended at least four weeks by the league.

Phil (Baltimore,MD)

Colston or Welker this week? Or....OR....should I start BOTH and bench Slaton? P.S. Goatees rule!!!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:02 PM)

That a baby, Phil! Nah, can't sit Slaton at home versus Detroit. Ya know, considering Welker's matchup is also favorable, I'd probably play it safe and sit Colston and see how he does.

Bob (DC)

Holt and Holmes are killing me at WR. Any chance they turn it around this year?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:03 PM)

Yeah, I think so. Big Ben has been going to Hines a bit more so far, but I think that shifts back. And Holt will pick it up. At least I know he's still a big part of the Rams' game plan.

Jim (Seattle)

Somebody has offered me Megatron for Jets D and Torry Holt. Take it?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:04 PM)

Yeah, I probably would (even with Lions QB situation uncertain). You might be able to get a throw-in D with him.

Ron (Las Vegas)

Good Afternoon Brendan. Would you do a TO for Boldin swap? Thanks.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:04 PM)

Huh? As in you'd get Boldin? TO definitely more valuable there.

Zach (NY)

Big trade was just accepted in my league, and I need some help as a first time Commish. I am one of the owners, which makes things harder. I was offered AP, Witten, and Baskett, for Slaton, Housh, Engram, and H Miller. The guy offering the deal is 1-5 and has been starting Toomer and Henderson at WR, so obviously he needs WR help. My question- did I ruin the league by accepting this trade?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:06 PM)

It's just my one opinion, and I'm not sure it carries much weight in your league, but I think it's fair enough to send through. Your trade partner needed bodies for depth -- that makes sense.

Deeeeeetroit Fantasyyyyyyy (The D)

Should I just drop Roy if he's not dealt today?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:06 PM)

No way. We saw two weeks ago what he can do, and the Lions still will throw plenty (because they'll trail early). I think R-Dub still has No. 3 or even No. 2 WR value even if he's not dealt.

Joel ( Roscommon MI)

Brendan, Need to cover Warner's bye...Cassel vs a shaky Bronco defense or Garcia against the Seahawks ?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:07 PM)

Oh, that is tough. But since they're both at home, I'd take Cassel and the Pats' offense (with Randy Moss) over Garcia and the Bucs.

Ric, NJ

Any news on Gonzalez moving to the G-men??

Brendan Roberts

  (3:08 PM)

No news, but that's reportedly on the top of the "hot phone lines" check. In fact, all the Chiefs are.

Nick (Greenwich, CT)

Should I try to Trade LT and get better at a different position, or just sit it out until after the bye week..my other Rb's are Forte, Graham, and Mcfadden?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:09 PM)

I think trading LT is not in your best interests. First of all, I think his best games are still ahead of him. Also, his value has bottomed out, especially during a bye week. I say you just wait it out. He might not be No. 1 overall L.T., but I still think he'll be No. 1 RB L.T. from here on out.

Ron (Las Vegas)

I ask about TO for Boldin because in my PPR league TO is currently less than a point higher than Boldin. Given the QB situation, low number of receptions, and inability to beat defenders off the line, I though Boldin would be a more consistent option going forward. Am I way off base?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:10 PM)

I gotcha, Ron. But I still think TO is easily the best option going forward. You've seen his worst games.

Nick (SF)

Any chance the Niners are going to get a WR before the trade deadline?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:11 PM)

I think they're working on it, but not hearing anybody linked. Hell, a certain other Bay Area team could use a WR as well. It sounds like they're ready to bench Curry and Walker (for good reason).

Steve (Denver)

What are your thoughts on JT O'Sully going forward?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:14 PM)

Good question. He's one of those guys who will have decent days when the matchup is good, but let's be honest: If your other starter has an even remotely good matchup, you're starting him, right? Because J.T. as an unknown is just not safe. And if you're keeping him around for the good days, look at the waiver wire and you'll see other quarterbacks that fall into that class. Unless your league is limited with starting QBs on the FA wire, I'd let him go. That's how little hope I have for him from here out. I don't think he's the next big thing.

Grant (Seattle)

Is Roddy White legit? Would you trade Coles and Deuce for him?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:15 PM)

Roddy White is legit ... unfortunately, I think Laveranues is, too. Roddy for Coles? Yeah, I could see that, but not sure you need to throw in Deuce.

Skip (Detroit)

LOTS AND LOTS AND LOTS of trade rumors floating around my city. Got any inside info about the likes of Roy, Kitna, Redding, or White moving before 4pm?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:16 PM)

Unfortunately, no. They're saying around the offices here that that "imminent" move of Kitna to the IR is not exactly imminent, and it sounds like the Lions are asking for more than a first-rounder for Roy Williams, which makes his trade unlikely. But let's hope Lions GM Mayhew will cave and we see some changes from that team.

Mark (San Diego)

Will Ryan Grant ever get on track??????????

Brendan Roberts

  (3:19 PM)

Good question, Mark, and my answer is yes. Even though he didn't rack up a ton of yards ,the fact he got 33 carries last game was the truest sign that his hammy is OK. He's healthy ... now it's just time to play. I think we're seeing the difference in schemes between the Packers having Favre at QB and Rodgers at QB. With Favre there, especially after they'd thrown A TON in the first several games, linebackers were playing back and watching for slants, and safeties also were off the line. With Rodgers there, the safeties are up more, and the linebackers are blitzing more, which changes Grant's routes. So he'll get his points, but he won't be as dominant as he was last season.

Bo (Golden, CO)

Buffalo defense a good play at home against the Chargers? I also have Indy...

Brendan Roberts

  (3:21 PM)

Ya know, a lot of people here are touting that Buffalo D, and I guess I just don't see it. Decent return teams, but I just don't see mega-talent on their defense (compared with other Ds). And the Chargers still scare me (see: Monday Night). I'd go with Indy (against Fitz) in that one, although I'd be in the minority, I'm sure.

Scott (Hanover, Pa)

Hi, thanks for the great chat. I hate to come off like I am trying to take advantage in trade offers, so here goes: A guy in my league is weak at WR and pretty well off at RB. I was thinking about offering him Jamal Lewis and one of, Engram, Bowe, Anthony Gonzales for S. Jackson. Is this reasonable? Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:22 PM)

Thanks, Scott. Yeah, I'm with ya on that one. Jamal Lewis' stock is runnin' high, and I still believe in Jackson. That said, I don't think the difference between Lewis and Jackson is enough that you need to fill it with someone of Bowe's talent. Engram and Gonzalez? Sure.

Michelle (Cleveland)

Derek Anderson last night - one week wonder or a worthy starter going forward?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:23 PM)

Obviously, he'll have his bad weeks, but I say "worthy starter" going forward.

Petey

Would you trade S. Moss for Jamal Lewis? I am deep at WR and only have S. Morris and Fargas to play as my second RB. Thanks.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:24 PM)

Yeah, I'd do that.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:24 PM)

FYI ... Giants don't know how serious it is, but appears Eli Manning has a chest injury. Newark Star-Ledger reporting. Just something to watch. Owners of G-men better hope David Carr ain't quarterbacking that squad ...

Lee

are you still trusting the ravens D?...thinking of picking up Houstons D going against the Lions...also, is selvin coming back?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:27 PM)

I still trust the Ravens D. What's with people giving up on 'em. I mean, it was the Colts and Indy; a lot of defenses have had trouble there. Besides, from what I see, much of the damage was on big plays, not a ton of out-pound 'em drives. I'd stick with BALT. ... Selvin? He's still questionable, but Shanahan's love affair quotes with Pittman indicates it doesn't matter anyway.

Carlo (Omaha)

Brendan, you've helped me out in the past, here's hoping you take this. In a league where we keep 3 for 5 years. Can get Slaton, Portis, or SJax (and a flier) for a package of Wayne and Thomas Jones (or Sproles). My other WR: Cotchery, Plax, Berrian, Moore, Braylon with AP my other big RB. Your thoughts/insights PLEASE??!!! Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:28 PM)

Oh, that's close because Wayne still has many good years left. Ya know, I guess I'd go get Portis or S-Jax (whichever you like better, they're close for the long term) and then make sure that flier is a useable player.

B (Philly)

Bernard Berrian... the Roddy White of the NFC North?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:29 PM)

Nah, because White has the strength and ability to catch balls in the middle to beat physical coverage and catch more passes week to week. Berrian is known for being non-press, usually zone, coverages, and it more of a matchups play. White is much safer week to week, which I like.

JJ (Boston)

Ok Brendan, hear me out. I am looking to deal TO because I believe his name carries more value than his play. With the current QB status in Dallas, the lack of targets he gets, and the possibility of Roy Williams heading over in a trade, TO loses even more value. With Barber, Witten, Crayton, and possibly R.Williams, TO could be in for an even bigger slide. Just my two cents, but what about yours?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:31 PM)

OK, now that's putting it a way that I (and others) understand. Well done, JJ. Yes, I could see trading TO right now, but here's the thing: We fantasy owners as a group are pretty smart, too. Your fellow owner might see right through it. So be careful. Don't go thinking TO is not a No. 1 WR and trade him as less than that. Just because his value might drop some doesn't mean he's not still valuable. Just wanted to offer up that warning to piggy-back what you say here.

Tim (jersey)

Is jacobs to much to give up for colston?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:32 PM)

They're pretty close. Yeah, I like Jacobs slightly more, but they're close enough such that if you can't get a throw-in option and your roster warrants a RB-for-WR trade, you can do it with my endorsement.

mike (Israel)- please help me out-it is 10PM here

Only have addai Lwhite felix and selvin,any suggestions for coming week?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:33 PM)

Dominic Rhodes? Tashard Choice (if your league is deep)?

Joe (Boston)

Brendan do you think Kyle Orton has gotten over the hump and will be useful going forward? Or might he just be benefiting from soft matchups.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:35 PM)

I think it's the matchups, Joe. Ya know, if he had money receivers, I'd feel safer, but he really doesn't. He's racking up these passing yards, and I don't really know how (outside of the matchups). All that said, at least he has proven he can beat good matchups ... and this week the Bears have one (for QBs) in Minnesota at home.

Andrew (Buffalo)

I need help. Romo's hurt and Warner on a bye the best fa's in my league are Schaub and Edwards. Which is the better pickup?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:36 PM)

Coincidentally, I have this very scenario in TWO leagues ... but no Schaub. He's my pick. The Lions at home is about as good as it gets. I wouldn't look past that.

Bob (Indiana)

I was offered LT for Ronnie Brown and Santonio Holmes. Brown is an every-week starter for me, Holmes is my No. 1 backup WR. Do the deal?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:38 PM)

Not so fast, my friend. That's closer than you think. At least try to get a decent No. 4/flex receiver with LT in return.

Jonathan (Philadelphia)

Bye weeks are killing me this week. Would you drop Felix Jones if he can't play for immediate help this week, or keep him and probably take the loss? Also, who would be a deep sleeper you'd suggest?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:39 PM)

Well, if it comes down to taking a loss, I'd drop him if I had to. Obviously, I'd love to keep him, but he's still a backup. Replacements? Like I said before, Dom Rhodes, Tashard Choice (in place of Jones) or maybe even Sproles?

mike (Israel)- please help me out-it is 10PM here

Should I get Ksmith? If I have Torrain should I drop Selvin?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:40 PM)

I thkink you have to hang on to Selvin awhile longer, if possible. As for K.Smith, yikes. I saw him available on the waiver wire in one of my leagues, too, but couldn't justify picking him up. I think that's probably the same in your case.

B (Philly)

Name game, rest of the way: Coles, or Hines Ward?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:41 PM)

Hines Ward. Similar receivers, but I like Steelers' offense slightly more going forward.

Adam (Chicago)

Hey Brendan...Love Ronnie Brown but this week against the Ravens? Should I start Kevin Smith or Engram instead?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:42 PM)

Nope, start Ronnie. Were you scared when he went to New England a few week ago, too? Ha, ha. He can beat tough matchups.

K (philly)

Camrillo over Derrick Mason the rest of the way because of a rookie QB?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:42 PM)

Nope, I still like Mason more. He's assured of more catches, and that means something to me. Camarillo might bust loose now and then, but the guy who has more balls thrown his way, I think, is the safer bet to start.

Mike (D)

YO, D. Anderson or T. Edwards for the next 4 weeks???

Brendan Roberts

  (3:43 PM)

Ya know, I'd say Derek Anderson, especially if Winslow is back this week.

Tyler (Vermont)

Brendan, my team took a pretty big hit when Romo went down, I don't want to pull off a big trade because I know Romo will be my starter when he comes back. Which of these second tier QBs would you target for a trade: Cammpbell, Garrard, Orton, or Edwards. The other option is to go the the FA wire and pick up Cassell or Frerrotte? Thanks!!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:47 PM)

Tough break, Tyler. I think you have to look at this as just a temporary replacement and find someone who can just fill in for the next four weeks. As such, to avoid further roster tinkering, I'd avoid anybody there who has a bye week coming up. And seeing as there's not enough difference to me there between Campbell and Cassel to warrant trading a a player, I'd just pick up Cassel (even using a decent waiver-order slot to do it). He has favorable matchups at least the next two weeks and should give you solid production.

Randy (Shoreline, CT)

Hey Brendan!! Help a re-emerging fantasy team keep the ship sailing. Slaton and Chris Johnson have delicious match ups this week, but good ole Lynch is on my roster too. I dont dream of sitting him I know, but whose got the upper hand as my RB2? I know you guys always say to use the rankings but, this is a tough one! Also, Megatrons OK, right??! Thanks alot

Brendan Roberts

  (3:49 PM)

Yup, Megatron is OK. Yeah, tough call there btween the two backs. But I'd take the guy who is assured of more carries, plays at home and has the better matchup. That's right, all the variables (other than pure talent, but it's close) slant toward Slaton over Johnson, and I'd do it.

Craig (Chicago)

I need running back depth. Are Lance Moore and Engram enough to offer for Ryan Grant? Would this be a good move -I got Marshall, S. Moss and Chambers as WR. Thanks

Brendan Roberts

  (3:50 PM)

My guess is that won't be enough to get the deal done. Weekly starting backs are held in mighty high regard by owners. But yeah, going after Grant looks like a recommended move.

Jeff (SC)

Hi Brendan. Of course I had both Marvin Harrison and Vincent Jackson on my bench last game. After their huge performances, what's your take on them going forward?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:52 PM)

I think Harrison is going to be sit-worthy in most weeks and will disappoint if you start him weekly. Even Sunday, he had only three catches, he just happened to get loose on two of 'em. V-Jax I really like, but I think he's one of those consistent 50-70 yards per week guys with the occasional TD with Chambers and Gates both playing. That breathes "flex play during bye weeks" option to me. I like him if Chambers and Gates miss, but there's just too many options there (specially when you throw in LT).

Marcie (Pittsburgh, PA)

Hi Brendan I am in a 2 quarterback league I am starting schaub but would you start brad johnson or matt cassel in week 7? Thanks.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:55 PM)

I wouldn't start either guy over Schaub, but I do like Cassel this week. This gives me an opportunity to talk about Brad Johnson. Sure, he's old and decrepit and probably can't throw the ball 30 yards, but he still is at the helm of a great offense and has great weapons, especially in the passing game. You can't tell me Tony Romo alone made that offense go. When the matchup is right, and it is this week against the Rams, I think Johnson deserves actual starting consideration. I really do.

Bob (NYC, baby)

Better long term - Ronnie Brown or Marshawn Lynch?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:55 PM)

I know Brown is the hot thing, but I'd still say Lynch quietly edges him in points from here on out.

Brian (Berwyn, PA)

Hi Brendan. Quality or quantity? Would you trade Chris Johnson and Thomas Jones for Marshawn Lynch? Too much? Too little? I also have LT, SJax, Deuce, Fargas, we play 2RB + flex. Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:56 PM)

Way too much. Two good back for one. You need to get someone else in return.

Fabiola (Buenos Aires)

Ola Brendan! You're in 1st place. If you were started 3 or 4 of Jennings, Wayne, Coles, Welker, Berrian, Engram & E.Graham... would you do any of the following trades if you have to start JTOS or Hass? Jennings for Cutler. Berrian/Welker for Donovan. Berrian/Coles for Donovan. Berrian or Coles or Welker for Schaub. Any you just say 'NO' to?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:58 PM)

Oh, they love us in Argentina! Hmm, I'm like your idea of trading excess WRs for a QB. I probably like the first one best, followed by the second one. Go get Cutler, though.

BUZZER BEATER!!!

No love for Kevin Smith verus HOU? Houston!!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:59 PM)

Kevin Smith has 42 carries in five games this season ... Hey, I still think the scenario is the same in Houston -- the Lions trailing early and throwing (with Orlovsky ... ugh).

Brian (Chapel Hill)

Is Plaxico going to be steady from here on out?

Brendan Roberts

  (4:00 PM)

Yeah, I think he is. He's motivated now and still a key part of a great offense. And (at least semi-) healthy. He's a good guy to own now. One more...

Jason - Orlando

Does Crayton become more consistent with Johnson in at QB now?

Brendan Roberts

  (4:01 PM)

No, I think Crayton's value sinks slightly right along with everyone else. Witten and T.O. can run "short routes," too. In fact, Crayton is maybe the only guy whose value sinks below start-worthy level.

Brendan Roberts

  (4:02 PM)

OK, folks. That'll do it. Still not hearing anything official about deals that have gone done, and I've been listening off and on. But keep locked in to the player news the next few hours to see what's being reported. And be ready to move/set waiver options accordingly.

Brendan Roberts

  (4:02 PM)

Oh, and good luck in Week 7!