NFC West - Arizona Cardinals

As promised, here is my take on the NFC West. First up, we address the Arizona Cardinals.

Josh McCown, QB – I like the look of the 3rd year Arizona QB. In the last four games of ’03 he was a consistent and impressive performer. Taking over the starting role this year he will have a strong receiving corps featuring last year’s ROTY (rookie of the year) Anquan Boldin and newcomer Larry Fitzgerald. Couple this with a weak running game and new coach Dennis Green’s fondness for QBs, McCown could easily pass the 3000 yard mark. I make him a solid pick as a #2 fantasy football QB.

Shaun King, QB – If McCown stays healthy you’ll probably get more fantasy football points playing Stephen King.

John Navarre, QB – Had a reputation for not being able to win the big ones at Michigan. He won’t even win the small ones this year.

Emmitt Smith, RB – Was one of the greatest. Was. Despite being recently named as the starter, don’t expect much when the hitting starts for real. I expect he will share a significant number of carries with Scobey or Anderson. Think Emmitt is inspired to produce? Think he wants to show he still has it? Think he is motivated to go out on top? He was motivated against Dallas last year, the result, 6 carries, -1 yard and a broken bone. Not suitable for your fantasy football line-up!

Marcel Shipp, RB – Out for 8-12 weeks with a broken left leg. Out most of the rest of the season with other talent moving ahead.

Damien Anderson – With 35 year old Smith ahead of him, he’s an injury away from a starting position. With Scobey behind him, he’s a stumble away from moving back to #3.

Josh Scobey, RB – Sleeper Alert. He’s inexperienced, but fast and hard to bring down. Watch for Scobey to sneak ahead of Damien Anderson for the number 2 slot.

Anquan Boldin, WR – Last year’s ROTY (Rookie of the Year) will avoid the sophomore jinx. Still, his numbers may drop some this year. Why?, a move to Split End and more good targets this year.

Larry Fitzgerald, WR – Hasn’t played his first game yet and already is listed as the #2 receiver. Is he that good? Yes, the birds might just have their second straight ROTY.

Bryant Johnson, WR – Another good one. May get some openings with opposing D’s scrambling to cover Boldin and Fitzgerald.

Neil Rackers, K – 67% accuracy might be acceptable if this were basketball. Unfortunately, it isn’t.

Cardinals Defense – Defensively speaking, Sadam’s Air Force was stronger.