Comment: Last season the Ravens were tops in the league, but with the off-season departure of Adalius Thomas how will they respond? Even with the loss of Thomas (11 sacks, 1 interception, 83 tackles) the Ravens still have the best defense in the league. They have playmakers at every position and no weak links in the chain. Ed Reed will start the season healthy, Terrell Suggs keeps on improving and Ray Lewis is always terrific. Adding a defense like this to your squad gives you an immediate boost week-to-week.

Comment: Last season the Bears owned one of the most dominating defenses in the league. They tallied 24 interceptions (second best in the NFL) along with 40 sacks. Defensive powerhouses Lance Briggs and Brian Urlacher are both back for another season, but the Bears lost Tank Johnson to suspension and defensive tackles Ian Scott and Alfonso Boone walked away during the free agency period. So although the Bears might not own the best defense in the league any more, it’s still quite good.

Comment: The newly revamped Patriots offense is getting all the attention. And after grabbing big names like Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Donte’ Stallworth that’s easy to understand. But maybe the biggest grab of all was former Ravens stand out, Adalius Thomas. His presence alone should elevate the Patriots defense to a higher level of play, which set a franchise record for fewest points allowed last season. It’s only the pre-season and the Patriots are already heavy favorites to win the Super Bowl.

Comment: The Chargers led the league with 61 sacks last season, despite the four-game absence of Shawne Merriman. With Merriman back for a full season the Chargers will not only have one the Leagues’ bests offenses, but also a top ranked defense as well. The only cause for concern should be the departure of defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, who left for Dallas during the off-season. If the Chargers can make a smooth transition with new defensive head Ted Cottrell, then they should be just fine.

Comment: The Eagles owned the second best defense last season, despite losing Jevon Kearse to a knee injury in week two. Pro Bowler Michael Lewis left the team, but the strong play of second-year Sean Considine should make up for his absence. Plus, the Eagles traded for Takeo Spike, an especially gifted linebacker who could make some big plays. Look for big boosts to turnovers and a slight increase in sacks from the Eagles in 2007.

Comment: The Dolphins eight interceptions were second worst in the league last season. Although they haven’t addressed that need, they have filled out their line with the addition of linebacker Joey Porter. So while the secondary unit isn’t great, their front seven should be steady producers. Jason Taylor was defensive player of the year, and Zach Thomas recorded 165 tackles. They might not completely dominate opposing teams, but you could do a lot worse than the Dolphins defense on draft day. And it’s almost a guarantee that the Dolphins will do better than last season’s eight interceptions.

Comment: The 49ers signed corner back Nate Clements to a massive eight-year, $80 million contract this off-season. Obviously they believe he will be a key player on a revamped 49ers defense. They also managed to net rookie Patrick Willis with the 11th overall pick in the draft. Walt Harris is always reliable and will complement Clements nicely at corner back. But if the 49ers want to reach elite status, they need to add more of a pass rush. Still, the 49ers will be a better defensive unit across the board in 2007.

Comment: The combination of Champ Baily and Dre’ Bly is one of the best corner back tandems in football. Baily had 10 picks in 2006, and safety John Lynch is one of the best. The loss of Pro Bowler Al Wilson was a big blow, but not big enough to drop the Broncos out of the top-ten. They only managed 35 sacks last season, but that number should increase with Jarvis Moss, Tim Crowder and Marcus Thomas all added through the draft. And if nothing else, Baily and Bly should be good for at least 20 interceptions.

Comment: The Packers defense was hardly talked about last season but it was actually the second-best fantasy defense in the league. Aaron Kampman deserves much of the success — his 15.5 sacks nearly doubled his career high. Former Oakland alum Charles Woodson also had a standout season, nabbing eight interceptions. Expect 40-plus sacks and over 20 interceptions this season. Although the Packers don’t have as solid a reputation as the Ravens or Chargers, they can still be a fantasy force.

Comment: Injuries plagued the Giants defensive unit last season. Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora both missed significant time, their production halted and they recorded only 32 sacks in 2006. But with a strong mix of new talent (Kawika Mitchell, Mathias Kiwanuka) and more experienced veterans (Antonio Pierce, Sam Madison) the Giants have a formidable lineup. Whether they can all remain healthy and become productive fantasy players is another story.

Comment: Minnesota’s run defense was outstanding last season. In fact, they were the only team in the NFL to allow less than 1,000 yards rushing. The core of the defensive unit remains intact, but there is still cause to worry. Despite forcing 21 interceptions last season, Minnesota ranked second-to-last in passing yards allowed. Defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin split as well, which could cause some headaches as they try to shift into a new defensive set. But after two seasons ranked among the best defensives in the league, UPDATE! is willing to bet the Vikings will make a smooth transition under new coordinator Leslie Frazier.

Comment: The Rams allowed 145 rushing yards per game last season, runner-up for worst in the league. Opponents managed over 100 rushing yards in 10 out of the 16 games played in 2006, prompting management to focus on promoting run defense during the off-season. Defensive end James Hall and linebacker Chris Draft were acquired via free agency and defensive end Adam Carriker was drafted with high expectations. Expect the Rams to raise their number of total sacks and force more turnovers this season, making them a viable fantasy option.

Comment: The Panthers defense rushed for 41 sacks last season, but only managed to force 22 turnovers. However, this season the team should show considerable improvement. Julius Peppers is a defensive monster year after year and Dan Morgan returns to the fold after only playing one game in 2006. Plus, Miami Hurricanes standout Jon Beason joins the mix. Expect a return more in line with the Panthers 2005 season numbers, which saw them pressure offensives for 38 turnovers.

Comment: The Jaguars had an impressive defensive unit last season, but that did not translate into fantasy success. So although they held opponents to just 91 rushing yards a game and were fourth in the league in points allowed, a lack of aggression led to only 35 sacks and just eight fumbles. Defensive leader Mike Peterson should make a full comeback from last season’s injury, and the Jaguars youth movement continued with the addition of Reggie Nelson and Justin Durant. If defensive end Reggie Hayward can return to form after missing 15 games last season, then the Jaguars might have a surprisingly solid defensive this season.

Comment: Although the Cardinals were nothing short of atrocious last season, their defensive numbers were actually quite good. 38 sacks, 16 interceptions, 21 fumbles and three defensive touchdowns made the Cardinals one of the better fantasy defenses last season, even with Bertrand Berry missing significant time due to injury. Second-round draft pick Alan Branch joins the fold, as does new coach Ken Wisenhunt and his long-time defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast. Wisenhunt will demand production from the defensive line, and the presence of Pendergast should provide continuity for a team looking to solidify its reputation.

New England Patriots
Comment: Thomas has earned a reputation as a hard-nosed and aggressive player, capable of filling multiple positions on the defensive line. Last season with the Ravens, he recorded 83 tackles and 11 sacks. Thomas will bring experience and relative youth to a Patriots defensive line that has been just average in the past. Expect this versatile big man to have a huge impact on the Patriots as they make a push for their fourth title in seven years.

San Francisco 49ers
Comment: Clements signed an $80 million, eight-year contract during the off-season, making him the highest paid defensive back in NFL history. He earned it though, as he finished last season among the Leagues’ elite with 70 tackles, three interceptions and one touchdown. Clement should make the transition to the 49ers upgraded defensive system without trouble, and the team looks strong enough to earn its first winning season in nearly four years.

Denver Broncos
Comment: Bly will join Champ Baily this season to form one of the most imposing cornerback tandems in all of football. His 33 interceptions are the most in the league since 1999, and he is coming off his third season of 50-plus tackles. Plus, new defensive coordinator Jim Bates is one of the most respected defensive minds in the game. Expect a big season from Bly, who will be covering the No. 2 wide receiver the majority of the time.

Dallas Cowboys
Comment: The Cowboys got a big boost of talent when they signed Hamlin this off-season. He will combine with Roy Williams and Terrence Newman to form a powerful front seven. 96 tackles, two sacks and three interceptions last season placed Hamlin among the league leaders, and his presence will help shut down the run. And at only 26, there’s still room for improvement.

Philadelphia Eagles
Comment: Spike was slow recovering from an Achilles tear suffered during the 2005 season, limiting him in 2006. In 12 games last season he posted 70 tackles and appears to be slowing down. But Spikes is still a proven playmaker. His presence gives the Eagles line an immediate upgrade. Now fully recovered from injury, look for Spikes to post big numbers in Philly.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Comment: The Buccaneers selected Adams with the fourth overall pick in this years draft, expecting him to be a fixture of their defensive line for the next several years. He will be an immediate starter and should post high totals for a rookie. More importantly, Adams provides some much needed youth and athleticism to an aging defensive unit.

San Francisco 49ers
Comment: Taken as the 49ers first-round pick in this year’s draft, Willis was considered one of the best the best college linebackers last year and figures to be an important part of the teams’ defensive overhaul. Willis is a tackling machine that should start right away. He has good speed and is strong enough to have an instant impact on a rapidly improving team. His senior year with the Rebels, he recorded 137 tackles — an encouraging sign for 49ers fans.

Atlanta Falcons
Comment: A versatile defensive end that could play both the weak and strong side with equal ease, Jamaal Anderson figures to be an immediate starter for the Falcons. He has good speed and, at 6-6, is the prototypical size for his position. This future Pro Bowl player has a lot of potential and fills an immediate need for the Falcons. If Anderson could bulk up and avoid injuries, he could be around this league for a long time.

St. Louis Rams
Comment: The Rams gave up 145 rushing yards per game last season — a number they hope to improve on in 2007. Their first-round pick, Adam Carriker, gives them a tall, quick big man and an explosive defensive end. Carriker should deliver as a rookie, especially as the season goes on and he gains more NFL experience. Expect him to be an important part in halting opponents run game.

Carolina Panthers
Comment: A former Miami Hurricanes standout, Beason joins a Panther squad where he will be expected to provide versatility and energy. Beason provides an insurance policy for the oft-injured Dan Morgan, and could see some immediate action. This speedy linebacker should contribute regularly and could find himself starting before long. Expect him to start the season behind Na’il Diggs.

San Diego Chargers
Comment: Anybody lucky enough to own Tomlinson last season was treated to one of the great performances in fantasy sports history. The numbers were staggering: 1,815 rushing yards, 508 receiving yards and a combined 31 TDs. Will Tomlinson be able to reproduce those titanic numbers from last season? Probably not, but it doesn’t matter. Tomlinson is a lock for 20-plus TDs and another 1,500-yard season. If you own the first pick come draft day don’t think twice: Just grab him. Unless your name happens to be Peyton Manning.

Kansas City Chiefs
Comment: During the 2006 season, Johnson carried the ball an NFL-record 416 times en route to 19 TDs and 2,000-plus all-purpose yards. All those carries should eventually take their toll on Johnson’s body, but UPDATE! says not this season. Second in rushing only to Tomlinson, expect Johnson to continue to provide the same sort of consistent value he has shown throughout his career. Pencil in another 16-TD, 1,500-yard season despite playing behind a weak offensive line. Herm Edwards loves running the ball.

St. Louis Rams
Comment: Perhaps the most versatile running back in the NFL, Jackson totaled 2,332 yards rushing and receiving last season. Entering his fourth season, Jackson has become one of the elite backs in the game. With Marc Bulger finally coming into his own, fantasy owners can expect Jackson to balance out an already potent Rams offense. These two feed off each other and raise the level of their game as they make a push for a playoff berth.

Seattle Seahawks
Comment: Alexander was once the most-coveted running back in fantasy, routinely rushing for 1,300-plus yards and putting up gaudy TD totals. In 2006, though, he broke his foot and missed six starts. Fans of this popular back can rejoice however. His foot has healed and he returns to the field with an improved offensive line. While Alexander’s age might prevent him from replicating his MVP-worthy 2005 campaign, he still has enough in him to warrant a Top 5 pick. Expect somewhere around 1,400 yards and 10-plus TDs.

San Francisco 49ers
Comment: Last season’s most popular sleeper pick did not disappoint fantasy owners willing to take a chance. A multifaceted and young back, Gore will be the centerpiece for a rebuilding San Francisco team that hopes to replicate the success of the Joe Montana-Steve Young era. Although much is made of Gore’s rushing ability, almost forgotten is his nearly 500 receiving yards in 2006. Gore is a lock as a first-round pick and can be counted on to duplicate last season’s impressive breakthrough performance.

New England Patriots
Comment: With the addition of Randy Moss and the continuing improvement of Maroney, the Patriots are title contenders who should be taken seriously in 2007. Maroney had a strong rookie season; he collected 939 yards and 7 TDs. With Tom Brady keeping defenses honest, couple with the retirement of Corey Dillon, Maroney will improve and should reward fantasy owners. 1,300 yards and 8 TDs are not out of the question for this second-year standout.

Indianapolis Colts
Comment: The Colts allowed Edgerrin James to leave last season, raising speculation as to whether or not they would be able to field a competent running back to complement Peyton Manning. Addai, just a rookie, performed more than admirably and was one of the true surprises of the 2006 season. Skeptics need look no further than the postseason: Addai rushed for 294 yards and caught 10 passes during the Super Bowl. Addai is the real deal — fantasy owners can consider him a first round pick for sure.

Pittsburgh Steelers
Comment: One of the great success stories of the NFL, Parker went from being an undrafted rookie free agent to the Steelers starting running back in 2005. Parker’s combination of speed and strength allows him to cut through defenses and, despite his youth, he has played in some big time games. Last season he posted career numbers across the board as he rushed for nearly 1,500 yards and 13 TDs. Look for Parker to remain the cornerstone of the Steelers offense in 2007 and to continue to produce for fantasy owners.

Cincinnati Bengals
Comment: Although Carson Palmer and Chad Johnson steal the headlines, it’s Johnson’s consistent play that spreads defenses and opens the field in Cincinnati. None of his stats will blow you away, but that doesn’t mean he won’t produce. The evidence is in the numbers: 1,300-plus yards and 12 TDs for the thirds straight season. If he slips into the second round, he’s a steal.

Denver Broncos
Comment: After regaining fantasy value with the Tennessee Titans last season, Henry joins coach Mike Shanahan’s offensive wonder team, the Denver Broncos. A solid veteran, Henry has the chance to improve upon solid 2006 and return to his early potential as an elite running back. Expect a 1,300-yard, 8-TD performance in 2007 and consider Henry an early second-round pick.

New York Jets
Comment: After carrying the ball ahead of Cedric Benson for the Bears in 2006, Jones was traded to the Jets during the off-season. The Jets have a young and improving offensive line, so Jones should remain a consistent threat. A third consecutive 1,000-yard season should be a reasonable expectation from this veteran running back. He won’t give up too many carries to Leon Washington and should still remain the focus of the Jets offense.

Philadelphia Eagles
Comment: After Donovan McNabb’s season ending injury midway through 2006, Westbrook took command of the team and led it to wins in four out of its last five contests. With career highs in rushing (1,217) and TDs (11), Westbrook looks to build on last season’s success and continue to improve as a player. The only question mark for fantasy owners is his durability; Westbrook must remain healthy for the whole season to be a consistent contributor.

Arizona Cardinals
Comment: After seven solid seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, James was a disappointment with the Cardinals. His 1,376 total yards was the second lowest total of his career and his 3.4 yards-per-carry was an NFL worst. Still, the addition of new coach Ken Wisenhunt and an improved offensive line raises James’ value a bit. Expect a slight improvement in his 2007 totals and consider him a deal if he falls to the middle-rounds.

Baltimore Ravens
Comment: After rushing for 1,128 yards and scoring 13 TDs in 2004, McGahee seemed poised to become one of the best running backs in the NFL. Something went wrong however, and McGahee never put it all together. This season McGahee joins a Ravens team where he will be the focal point of the offense. At 25, he is young and there’s still time for him to put his natural skills to good use. McGahee is a strong early second-round pick for fantasy owners looking to bolster their corps of running backs.

New Orleans Saints
Comment: Bush has supplanted Deuce McAllister as the Saints premier running back. While two-back systems in the NFL normally limit a player’s fantasy value, Bush should only improve on last season’s numbers. McAllister will serve as a tutor and guide as Bush transitions into his role of star back, and owners can expect more red zone carries in 2007. Bush finished with over 1,300 yards last season, including 742 receiving, and 8 TDs. Expect more of the same from the former Heisman Trophy winner.

Chicago Bears
Comment: The Bears traded Thomas Jones to the Jets in the off-season, which paved the way for Benson to become the No. 1 running back for the defending NFC champs. Along with the expected increase in carries, Benson should produce a juicy stat-line for fantasy owners to drool over. Benson averaged 63.5 yards a game over the last six — all while sharing the ball. Benson is a solid second-round draft pick with the potential to have a breakout season.

Atlanta Falcons
Comment: As a rookie, Norwood managed to rush for over 600 yards with only 99 carries. Norwood is an explosive athlete and will be a featured back some day. Much of Norwood’s development this season hinges on Warrick Dunn. The undersized Dunn will lose out on carries, but is still the top back in Atlanta — for now. Norwood will be looking to challenge this, and should see his role increase as the season rolls on.

Detriot Lions
Comment: In each of his three seasons with Denver, Bell saw an increase in his rushing yards even as he split carries with other backs. Now with the Lions, Bell will once again be splitting the ball — this time with Kevin Jones. Reports on Jones suggest that he might not be healthy enough to start the season, meaning Bell would be a serious pick-up for prospective fantasy owners.

Minnesota Vikings
Comment: Although fantasy owners often grapple with when to gamble on a rookie, Peterson is close to a sure thing. He will start out the season sharing the ball with Chester Taylor, but look for Peterson to supplant him at some point of the season and take the majority of the carries. He’s definitely worth a mid-round pick in keeper league. His injury history at Oklahoma is the lone concern.

Carolina Panthers
Comment: The Panthers have a star in the making with Williams. Although he will be sharing the backfield with DeShaun Foster, it won’t be long before Williams takes on a full-time role in the offense. Williams’ numbers will go up regardless. But if Foster goes down with an injury — as history suggests will happen — Williams could explode onto the scene in 2007.

Oakland Raiders
Comment: After winning the Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts, Rhodes signed with the Raiders in the off-season and figured to be an immediate impact player. Then the NFL banned Rhodes for the first four games of the season for violating the League’s substance abuse policy. LaMont Jordan, who Rhodes was supposed to split carries with, should benefit the most from Rhodes’ absence while the Raiders scramble to reconfigure their offense.

Minnesota Vikings
Comment: Taylor showed flashes brilliance in his first season as the Vikings’ featured running back. But he spent the bulk of his career as an effecive No. 2 back and will likely be asked to do it again with the arrival of rookie Peterson. Taylor wore down and managed only one 100-plus yard game over his last nine contests in 2006. Now that the Vikings have added Peterson to the mix, Taylor’s value will plummet.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Comment: Playing alongside Maurice Jones-Drew, Taylor saw limited carries last season and still rushed for over 1,000 yards. But with Jones-Drew looking to build on his promising rookie season, expect the veteran Taylor to lose some carries and crucial goal-line touches. And although he started 15 games last season, injuries have been cause for concern in the past. Taylor can still be of use as a viable third running back, but another 1,000-yard season is a stretch.

New York Jets
Comment: Washington finished up a surprisingly solid rookie campaign by starting four of the team’s last five games. It was a good sign for the Washington, until the Jets decided to import Thomas Jones into the mix during the off-season. After signing a hefty contract, expect Jones to get the majority of the carries, leaving the promise of Washington’s rookie season unfulfilled.

Atlanta Falcons
Comment: Dunn posted the second-highest rushing total of his 10-year career last season with 1,140 yards. But new coach Bobby Petrino may opt to go with a more physical back this season and, of course, Michael Vick is the No. 1 rushing quarterback in the league. Toss in the continuing development of Jerious Norwood and Dunn’s fantasy value becomes limited. Dunn could be worth a late round selection, but don’t be surprised if he fails to match last season’s numbers.

New England Patriots
Comment: After spending last season languishing in Oakland, look for Moss to jump-start his career with the New England Patriots in 2007. Tom Brady has never played with a deep threat as talented as Moss. Depth at the position will prevent double coverage from stifling Moss. This should translate into big numbers and fantasy owners can once again expect 1,000-plus yards and multiple TDs from the freakishly talented Moss. Despite underperforming his last three seasons, Moss remains the best receiver in league. And paired with Brady, fantasy owners can expect to be rewarded each week.

Carolina Panthers
Comment: Without a doubt, Smith is the hardest working player in the NFL. Slight in size, he makes up for it in heart. He has proven that he has a tendency to get hurt in even years but dominates in odd years. So look for an awesome year in 2007. Smith caught 83 passes last year en route to over 1,100 yards. On a Panthers team that has added notable rookie Dwayne Jarret, look for Smith to continue his domination at the receiver position.

Cincinatti Bengals
Comment: One of the few Bengals that has stayed out trouble over the past couple of years, Johnson is still far from avoiding controversy. His antics sometimes prevent him from being truly appreciated as one of the top five wide outs in the league. The Bengals’ high-tempo offense will lead to big numbers for Johnson and if the defense can improve, the team could put up some record numbers. Additionally, playing alongside fellow wideout T.J. Houshmenzadeh will help eliminate double coverage and provide Johnson with more opportunities for easy catches.

Dallas Cowboys
Comment: OK, so Owens is a little — check that — a lot crazy. But he is still an elite NFL receiver. He will put up at least 80 catches, 1,300 yards and 12 TDs. The problem with T.O. is that most people hate having this guy because they actually have to cheer for him. If you get the chance, bite the bullet and do it. With the more lenient Wade Philips helming the cowboys, expect more freedom for Owens out in the field. And love him or hate him, Owens puts up solid numbers year after year. In his last seven season, Owens has caught for over 1,000 yards six times and 10-plus TDs five times.

St. Louis Rams
Comment: Holt gets overlooked because he seems to put up the same numbers — kind of like a cross-town guy named Albert Pujols. But that consistency is appreciated in fantasy circles. Another thing Holt has going for him, the Rams have one of the best young backs in the game and the easiest schedule in the league. Expect no less than 90 receptions, 1,200 yards and 10-plus TDs. Through nine NFL seasons, Holt remains a workhorse — he’s played in all but two games in his pro-career.

Indianapolis Colts
Comment: Wayne is the not only one of the best wideouts in the AFC but also one of the best in the game. He may not be Peyton Manning’s favorite target on the field but with Marvin Harrison aging he will be eventually. There is a reason that they re-signed him and let Edgerrin James go; he is an absolute stud wideout! He caught for over 1,300 yards last season and is poised to repeat his fantasy worthy performance again in 2007.

Detroit Lions
Comment: No one will mistake Jon Kitna for Carson Palmer or Peyton Manning, but he is a solid quarterback that realizes what he needs to do to succeed in Detroit — get the ball to Williams. In terms of pure talent, Williams is a no-doubt Top 10 guy with the tools to dominate. This could be the monster season everyone’s been waiting for. Last season Williams caught 82 passes and 7 TDs to go along with 1,300 yards. Fantasy owners can expect similar numbers from last season with a probably increase in TDs.

Indianapolis Colts
Comment: Just when you expect Harrison to finally slow down, he keeps on putting up big numbers. A concern with him and teammate Reggie Wayne should be the Colts’ brutal schedule, which is why Harrison falls several places on this years list. The Super Bowl champions schedule is always tough but the Colts’ includes trips to Carolina, San Diego, Baltimore and Jacksonville and home games against the likes of Denver, New England and the Jags. Harrison’s 12 TDs and 1,366 yards will dip this season, but not enough to warrant keeping him off your fantasy team.

Green Bay Packers
Comment: Brett Favre is not getting any younger but he still wants to win. The secret to success? Get the ball to Driver as much as possible. If Greg Jennings can perform suitably on the other side of the field, Driver will avoid double coverage and may see an increase from last years numbers — 1,295 yards and 8 TDs.

Arizona Cardinals
Comment: Boldin has transformed himself into the most physical receiver in the league. He blows through cornerbacks like a fullback. And with Matt Leinart’s impending rise to stardom, Boldin will be a fantasy workhorse for years to come. As an added bonus, the Cardinals’ easy schedule should allow for Boldin to have a 1250-yard, 7 TD season. Fantasy owners can consider Boldin a No. 1 wideout week after week.

Arizona Cardinals
Comment: Coming off his injury-plagued 2006 season, Fitzgerald’s stock has probably gone down a bit. The Cardinals easy schedule, along with the presence of Anquan Boldin, will give Fitzgerald the opportunity to rebound nicely. UPDATE! predicts 1,100 yards and 7 TDs from this talented, young receiver. And the Cardinals might have the best wideout duo in all of football.

Cincinnati Bengals
Comment: He missed two games and still had more catches and scores (9) than teammate Chad Johnson. He’s been overlooked and overshadowed by Ocho Cinco. But savvy owners know Housh quietly performs every year. Think about drafting Houshmanzadeh in the middle rounds of your draft; he will reward owners with consistent numbers week-to-week. With Palmer throwing the ball, Houshmanzadeh will get the opportunity to produce all season long.

Denver Broncos
Comment: After sitting out the majority of the 2005 season with a knee injury, Walker returned in 2006 with great success. His 1,084 yards and 8 TDs from last season shouldn’t be to hard to improve, and at 28, Walker is still young enough to have an impact on a continually improving Broncos team. Look for the development of quarterback Jay Cutler to play an important role in defining Walker’s season.

New York Giants
Comment: Burress failed to record a 1,000 receiving yards for the third time in four seasons. He redeemed his fantasy value, however, by catching 10 touchdown passes in 15 games. With Tiki Barber’s departure, Eli Manning has taken over the team and the Giants will place a greater emphasis on their passing game. Look for Burress to be the primary weapon. Although he won’t post any eye-popping numbers, Burress is a solid No. 2 wideout for fantasy owners this season.

Houston Texans
Comment: There are reasons to debate this Top 15 choice, from and inexperienced quaterback to an aged running back. But Johnson has the tools to dominate. His 103 receptions led the NFL last season and he recorded a career best 1,147 yards. Plus, Ahman Green will open up the offense and pick up blocks much better than Ron Dayne, which should translate into an increase in Johnson’s numbers. Take a flyer on this guy and you might be surprisingly rewarded.

New York Jets
Comment: Cotchery put together a breakout season while still managing to fly under the radar. Look for Cotchery to repeat last season’s success and expect an increase in both TDs (6) and total yards (961). With Thomas Jones in the backfield, the Jets will have a stronger running game this year. That should open up the field for Cotchery and provide him with more easy opportunities to catch.

Seattle Seahawks
Comment: With Darrell Jackson gone, someone has to pick up the slack and Hackett is a prime candidate. Deion Branch was pretty disappointing in his first season in Seattle and is a bit overrated. But that is a good thing for Hackett: He won’t be the focus of opposing team’s defense. Another fantasy factor: The Seahawks have an easy schedule. He faces the Rams, Cardinals and ‘49ers each twice. Look for Hackett, who had 610 yards and 4 TDs in 2006, to improve.

Baltimore Ravens
Comment: Clayton showed some real flashes of greatness last year with a solid season on one of the NFL’s most dominant teams. Now entering his third season, Clayton is poised to take over the Ravens offense and become their top receiver. Though a bit overrated, running back Willis McGahee gives the Ravens a more dynamic running game than Jamal Lewis once did. His success carrying the ball will make things easier for Clayton throughout the season.

New Orleans Saints
Comment: With Joe Horn gone, Henderson has the chance to have a huge season. He is a deep threat with the ability to also be a possession receiver. And after his monster rookie year, defenses will key in on Marcus Colston and allow Henderson to feast on single coverage. In 15 games last season, including seven starts, Henderson had 745 yards and 5 TDs. If nothing else, he will repeat last year’s success.

Chicago Bears
Comment: The Bears love to go deep, mainly because that is the only throw that Rex Grossman can make, and Berrian is without a doubt the Bears’ main threat. Much of the Bears’ offensive success hinges on Grossman’s continued maturation and growth. A positive season for him should translate into big numbers for Berrian, who had 775 yards and 6 TDs a year ago.

New England Patriots
Comment: Although talented and quick, Welker joins a New England team where he will undoubtedly be the third option. Tom Brady’s newly revamped Patriots offense now features wide receiver Randy Moss and Donte’ Stallworth as well as the up-and-coming running back Laurence Maroney. Welker had over 600 yards last season playing for the Miami Dolphins. Joining such a potent offensive lineup, however, it’s hard to imagine Welker duplicating last season’s magic.

Detroit Lions
Comment: Furrey was one of the true fantasy surprises last season. In 16 games for the Lions, Furrey caught for over 1,000 yards and six TDs making him a waiver wire catch for many owners. Now entering his fifth season, it seems like a bit of a stretch to ask for Furrey to post similar numbers. Rookie standout Calvin Johnson will take receptions away from Furrey. And besides, prior to his breakout campaign, Furrey had just 197 yards in 37 appearances for the St. Louis Rams.

Oakland Raiders
Comment: Porter missed 12 games for the Raiders last season sidelined by injuries and suspensions. Although he enters the season healthy — and with a new coach and quarterback — Porter will be hard pressed to repeat his two fantasy worthy performances from 2004 and 2005. He’ll likely be relegated to second option behind Ronald Curry. At 29, Porter is still in his prime. The Oakland Raiders are too poor a team to place much fantasy stock in its players — for now.

St. Louis Rams
Comment: Entering his 15th NFL season, Bruce has long been considered an elite fantasy performer. But Bruce will be 35 at the start of the 2007 season, and has long since been replaced by Torry Holt. Although Bruce still has some spring in his step, turf toe limited him 2005 and hamstring issues slowed him down in the late 1990s. Despite his 1,000-plus yards last season, expect his age to show.

Washington Redskins
Comment: A myriad of injuries has limited Moss over the last several years. Nagging hamstring problems have slowed him down and he enters this season with a groin and hip flexor injury. Last season he managed 790 yards and 6 TDs in 14 games, but that’s a far cry from the 1,483 yards and 9 TDs Moss posted in 2005. While Moss can be effective, don’t expect him to dominate.