Searching The Scrap Heap

By Ralph Mancini, NFL Draft Bible/FFi Senior Writer

TRENT DILFER (SF-QB)- In no way, shape or form is Dilfer being touted as a start-worthy quarterback, but for those in deep leagues or ones that employ two starting passers, Dilfer may be a safe option in certain match-ups. When backed by a solid running game—as he was by in San Francisco’s 37-31 overtime victory over Arizona—Dilfer has enough smarts to avoid costly mistakes and hit his check-off receivers when there’s nothing open downfield. Up next for Dilfer and friends is a Carolina team that has seemingly hit rock bottom.

ANDRE HALL (DEN-RB)- Previously highlighted in Ones to Watch, Hall has strung together back-to-back stellar performances in place of the hobbled Selvin Young. In week 12’s overtime loss to Chicago, the 5’8” 212 pound-back flashed quick feet and fluid hips in carrying the load for the Broncos with 26 carries for 98 yards, including a 16-yard touchdown on a well-designed option play. The second-year professional is also a smooth receiver with soft hands as demonstrated by his two receptions for 69 yards. With multiple injuries in Denver’s backfield, Hall has a chance to become a weekly flex option.

ADRIAN PETERSON (CHI-RB)- The other Adrian Peterson filled in admirably for Cedric Benson who was forced out early in Chicago’s week 12 match-up versus Denver with a leg injury. On the day, Peterson gained 45 yards and a touchdown on the ground while pulling in five receptions for 41 yards. The 28-year-old back did a nice job of following his blocks on his way to gaining tough yards inside. Peterson is a disciplined runner with serious durability issues.
ANTHONY THOMAS (BUF-RB)- Although not as quick or elusive as rookie phenom Marshawn Lynch, Thomas is a workhorse that keeps getting stronger with more carries. In Buffalo’s 36-14 loss to Jacksonville, Thomas was the focal point of the offense with 46 yards and a touchdown on the ground and eight receptions for 45 yards in the passing game. If Lynch continues to sit out the remainder of the season, the one-time Chicago Bear has a chance of improving week 12’s output versus lesser defenses on the upcoming schedule.

ERNEST WILFORD (JAX-WR)- The oft-overshadowed receiver may be seeing an rise in his production thanks to the remarkable progress shown by his quarterback David Garrard, who’s beginning to develop increased poise throwing from the pocket. The Virginia Tech product was frequently targeted by Garrard and recorded 60 yards on five catches. The 6’ 4’ wide out masterfully created separation by fluidly coming in and out of his breaks.

DARRELL JACKSON (SF-WR)- The former Seahawk finally showed signs of snapping out of his season-long funk by hauling in five catches for 43 yards in week 12. A sweet match-up versus Carolina next week may see Jackson improve upon his latest stats. The veteran wide out displayed quickness in gaining separation from Arizona’s depleted secondary.

RECHE CALDWELL (WASH-WR)- Caldwell emerged from the shadows in week 12 by registering five catches for 43 yards. Despite being a total non-factor this year, the journeyman does have the requisite speed and agility to be a productive component of Washington’s aerial attack in the coming weeks. Towards the end of the 2006 season, Caldwell emerged as Tom Brady’s go-to receiver with 61 receptions for 760 yards and five scores. In the past, the one-time Charger received his fair-share of criticism for dropping catchable balls and not being the best route runner.

JABBAR GAFFNEY (NE-WR)- New England’s fourth receiver is undoubtedly talented enough to occupy a much more prominent role on any other NFL team. The sure-handed possession receiver was on the receiving end of a 19-yard touchdown pass from Tom Brady versus the Eagles. Gaffney is known as an excellent route runner with above-average body control.