Gary Kubiak Still Likes Ahman Green

October 2, 2008 at 5:14 pm | Article by Paul Hickey |

Gary Kubiak Still Likes Ahman Green By now, fantasy owners should know never to take a good running back - or their current situation - for granted, because it can always change on the drop of a dime. For instance, Texans rookie Steve Slaton has been phenomenal this season, combining for nearly 400 total yards and two TDs in only three games. However, our sources tell us that 31-year-old veteran Ahman Green is still very much in the mix.

I know, it’s hard to believe, but Gary Kubiak - for some reason - still thinks Ahman Green can play. Even though he was only healthy enough to carry the rock 70 times last season, and has only played in one quarter of a game due to an ankle injury this season, Green will be getting another chance starting in Week 5 against Indy.

Our sources close to the Texans tell us that even though Slaton may start the game, that Kubiak wants Green to play just as large a role as the rookie. Does this give him fantasy relevance? Well, barely. We’ve seen some odd things happen already this season, and the comeback of five time 1,000 yard rusher in the last seven seasons wouldn’t shock us at this point. Monitor Green closely, so you don’t lose out on a potential waiver wire gem.

Could Moore Be The Real Deal? - Up until this week - even after back-to-back seven-catch outings - we’ve thought of Saints’ 5′9″ 190 lb. WR Lance Moore as strictly a special teams player who gets a chance to play some extended offense every once in a while when two or three guys in front of him on the depth chart are down with injuries. Well, our sources are now telling us that Moore will continue to be a large part of the Saints’ offense moving forward, even after the return of Jeremy Shockey and Marques Colston. This is huge news for owners who snagged him for an injury fill-in last week. Bottom line - keep him. Especially if you’re in a PPR league or a dynasty format. We believe Moore could end up being one of those rare guys that contributes consistently despite the lack of flash and fame.

Branch & Engram Could Both Start Week 5 - Despite many fantasy outlets reporting to the contrary this week, our sources tell us that both Bobby Engram (slot) and Deion Branch (flanker) will start this week for the Seahawks. Branch is coming back from reconstructive knee surgery and Engram from a shoulder injury. Matt Hasselbeck will be much more productive with his full complement of pass catchers finally healthy, which should also result in good things for Seattle’s running game, which should be anchored by Julius Jones despite the return of Maurice Morris this week. Look for Branch and Engram to be very valuable for the remainder of the 2008 season.

Hester & Davis Could Both Start Week 5 - Following a huge win over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4, our sources tell us that Devin Hester and Rashied Davis are both likely to start against the Lions in Week 5, making them very solid fantasy sleeper options. Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd have both missed practice this week, and if they don’t show improvement in their ailments prior to Sunday, expect solid digits from Davis and Hester.

Who’s In, Who’s Out? - For those fantasy owners still monitoring injuries this week - and there are a lot of them - here’s what we’re hearing. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is likely out against the Falcons, Eagles RB Brian Westbrook is likely in against the Redskins, ‘Skins DE Jason Taylor is for sure out - and our sources say his season may be over, Texans LB DeMeco Ryans is likely in against Indy despite rolling his ankle last week, Ravens RB Willis McGahee is likely in against Tennessee but will split reps with Le’Ron McClain, KC LB Donnie Edwards is out, and Buffalo defenders Marcus Stroud out and Terrence McGee are likely out. Lastly, we’re hearing that Saints TE Jeremy Shockey will likely be back on the field in Week 6 to take on the Raiders.

Are You A Hardcore Fantasy Fanatic Who Likes To Talk Football Strategy And Throw Around Out-Of-The-Box Opinions? Join The USP Today!