Defensive Notes
When healthy, Thomas Davis has been one of the best options for leagues using individual defensive players. In his breakout 2008 season, he finished in the top 20 in tackles, added 3.5 sacks, and was involved in 3 fumbles. Last year he averaged almost 9 tackles per game, which ranked him in the top 5 at his position.
But seven games into last season Davis tore his ACL. His rehab was ahead of schedule and he was practicing fully with the team at OTAs -- until yesterday, when he tore his ACL again. The team may hold off on placing him on injured reserve, but most likely his 2010 season is over. In fantasy terms, it certainly is.
Our preseason annual is already at the printers, so we can't do anything about Davis' lofty status in the IDP rankings. He's listed among the top 15 linebackers, under the idea that he was healthy and both he and Jon Beason would be very productive again. Carolina has some major issues on the defensive line, suggesting their linebackers will be making a whole lot of tackles this season.
With no Davis, the player who should be in the rankings -- albeit not as high as Davis -- is probably former Bear Jamar Williams. There are other contenders, but he's the most likely option.
When you get your copy of the magazine, if you're in a league that uses IDPs, make sure you draw a big line through Davis' name. Williams should be slotted about 50th at linebacker, although he'll climb as the season approaches, once it becomes certain that he'll open as a starter.
--Andy Richardson
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