Crabtree has been ruled out for the preseason after aggravating the same foot injury that he had surgically repaired as a rookie in 2009. There is some speculation Crabtree may open the season on the PUP list, costing him the first six games. The 49ers have confirmed their concern by making bids on free agent Malcom Floyd and Chad Ochocinco, before his trade to New England.
2011 WR projections and ranks
Minnesota had one of the NFL's poorest run blocking lines in 2010, so it's perplexing that the lone veteran lineman they've added is 31-year-old journeyman Scott Kooistra. They'll also field one of the league's slowest wideout corps with Michael Jenkins bookending Bernard Berrian, whom the Vikes have apparently decided to keep. Berrian and Jenkins combined for a dreadful 10.97 yards-per-reception average and two touchdowns last season on 69 catches. Percy Harvin is an explosive inside target, but Peterson can expect 8-9 in the box on every snap as defenses single cover Jenkins and Berrian outside with ease.
2011 RB projections and ranks
Already the favorite for goal-line carries, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported that Mike Tolbert is also likely to be the Chargers' primary passing-down back. Mathews is left as the primary ball carrier out of scoring position, and didn't help his cause by reporting to camp out of shape. His conditioning and speed should return before the season, but Mathews doesn't offer as much upside as meets the eye. Tolbert's maintenance of a significant role caps Mathews' ceiling.
The Giants hope to re-sign Smith, but GM Jerry Reese has confirmed he won't be ready for Week 1 after December microfracture surgery. Giants players are under the impression that Smith will miss "at least" the first month, making him a PUP candidate. Mario Manningham and Hakeem Nicks are the Giants' receivers to target in fantasy drafts this season. Don't bother with Smith.