The Rookie Report Jan 8, 2008 | More

Welcome everyone to the first post-season installment to the Rookie Report. In case you missed the report earlier this season, the report will cover topics, trends and a game by game analysis of notable performances by the NFL’s 2007 Rookie Class to assist in your pursuit of dynasty championship gold.

In Week 17’s edition of the Rookie Report, we highlighted several rookie standout performances. In this week’s report, we will highlight several players who have the potential to emerge into contributory roles on dynasty teams in the not too distant future.

So sit back, but don’t get too comfortable because here we go with our first post-season week’s installment of this report.…

QB JaMarcus Russell – Oakland Raiders

Due to Russell missing training and mini camps, he only received limited playing time in 2007 despite the Oakland Raiders being out of playoff contention for weeks. At the close of the season, Coach Lane Kiffin came out and said Russell would be his starter in 2008. Russell showcased in arm and mobility in his first start in Week 17, and we will see more of the same with better decision making after being in the Raiders program for the entire offseason.

QB Troy Smith – Baltimore Ravens

Troy Smith looked good in limited action late in the 2007 season. He is an obvious upgrade over Kyle Boller, and Steve McNair’s play over the past season shows that he is close to hanging up the cleats. With the firing of the Ravens long-time coach this week, it is uncertain who will start at quarterback in 2008; however, Troy Smith appears to be in the mix to get consideration to be the Week 1 signal caller for the 2008 Ravens.

RB Darius Walker – Houston Texans

Texans running back Darius Walker looked impressive in the final weeks as a compliment to Ron Dayne. He is probably best suited to be a third down/change of pace back for the Texans; however, it is still unclear what Houston is going to do at running back for 2008 this offseason. For now, Darius Walker deserves a roster spot on dynasty squads until the Houston running back situation becomes clearer this offseason.

RB Michael Bush – Oakland Raiders

After finishing the 2007 season on the PUP list with his leg injury, Bush appears to be in line to get carries at running back with Fargas as free agent and Lamont Jordan on his way out of Oakland. He will likely split carries to some degree with Dominic Rhodes in 2008, but he is likely to help your team in 2008 in some capacity.

WR Steve Smith – New York Giants

Steve Smith was riddled with injuries in his rookie season; however, he showed potential in his playing time in 2007. Amani Toomer isn’t getting any younger and will be 34 in the 2008 season, and Steve Smith is likely the guy who will replace Toomer in the starting lineup. If Smith can stay healthy, he should be in line for a bounce back season in 2008 with increased playing time.

WR Laurent Robinson – Atlanta Falcons

Robinson showed he was talented in 2007’s rookie campaign and was rewarded with 6 starts. Robinson is a small school product that has good speed, athleticism, leaping ability, size and ball skills. With Joe Horn showing obvious age, Robinson appears to be in line to start in 2008 alongside Roddy White.

WR Sidney Rice – Minnesota Vikings

Sidney Rice was inconsistent in 2007 partially due to the usual rookie learning curve, however, mostly due to the pitiful quarterback play from Tarvaris Jackson and crew. As the offense matures in Minnesota, Rice should emerge as a quality receiving threat and a fantasy WR option for your dynasty team.

TE Brent Celek – Philadelphia Eagles

L.J. Smith appears to be on his way out of Philadelphia as it is unlikely for them to re-sign him. This leaves the door open for Brent Celek to establish himself as the starting tight-end for the Eagles. Celek will likely emerge as the starter in 2008, and should present a reliable option for Donovan McNabb (or whoever the starting QB is in Philly) to throw to. If he is available in your dynasty league, he is worthy of a roster spot on your team.

The following section of the Rookie Report summarizes notable rookie performances in this week’s playoff games.

Washington Redskins vs. Seattle Seahawks

Redskins S Laron Landry had 4 solo tackles and 2 interceptions in the loss to the Seahawks.

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers RB Gary Russell rushed 3 times for 2 yards. TE Matt Spaeth caught 1 pass for 7 yards. LB Lamarr Woodley had 3 solo tackles and 2 sacks.

Jaguars LB Justin Durant recorded 12 total tackles. FS Reggie Nelson had 3 solo tackles.

New York Giants vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw rushed 17 times for 66 yards and caught 1 pass for 9 yards. WR Steve Smith caught 3 passes for 29 yards. TE Kevin Boss caught 2 passes for 14 yards. CB Aaron Ross had 4 solo tackles.

Bucs DE Gaines Adams had 5 total tackles and 1 sack.

Tennessee Titans vs. San Diego Chargers

Titans RB Chris Henry rushed 1 time for no gain. WR Chris Davis caught 2 passes for 11 yards and had 1 rush for 11 yards. FS Michael Griffin had 7 solo tackles.

Chargers WR Craig Davis caught 1 pass for 5 yards.