RotoExperts.com delivers all the important player news with in-depth fantasy analysis for Week 12.
Quarterbacks
» Peyton Manning (glute) is listed as probable for Week 12. He should be started in all fantasy leagues with no hesitation, as there seem to be no significant concerns about his availability.
» Ben Roethlsiberger (head) was able to practice in full this week. He is listed as questionable and is expected to announce his status over the weekend. If he does start, the Steelers will likely ensure that Roethlisberger does not expose himself to many big hits and could rein in his role somewhat. If you have another quality starting option, you might want to consider reserving him.
» Kurt Warner (head) was a full participant in practices this week but is listed as questionable. It looks like he will play, but if you have another quarterback of similar or close value, go with the alternative. The Cardinals could rely more heavily on the running game and be cautious with Warner overall.
Running backs
» Cedric Benson (hip) was limited in Friday's practice and is listed as questionable, but there are indications he could still be in the lineup against Cleveland. It's best to keep him reserved, however, as it's uncertain how effective he can in the game. RB Bernard Scott will start if Benson is out, so keep close tabs on what appears to be a game-time decision if you are thinking about using him. RB Larry Johnson will not be much of a factor, even if Benson does not play.
» Reggie Bush (knee) was limited in practices and is questionable for Week 12. He is expected to play Monday night against the Patriots, however, and should be used as flex option in PPR and larger leagues barring setbacks.
» Steven Jackson (back) did not practice this week and is listed as questionable. He could be a game-time decision on Sunday. RBs Kenneth Darby and Samkon Gado be in line to see more carries if Jackson cannot play. Gado is worth adding if you need to patch the possible hole in your lineup.
» Julius Jones (ribs) was limited in practices and may be a game-time decision. Even if he can return, Justin Forsett should still play a significant role in the offense and is easily the better of the two Seattle RBs as a flex choice.
» Jamal Lewis (ankle) was limited in practices. While Lewis is expected to play against Cincinnati, he cannot be counted on for anything more than mediocre fantasy totals, even if the Browns can somehow keep the game from getting out of hand.
» Adrian Peterson (ankle) was limited in practices on Wednesday and Thursday. He missed Friday's practice because of an illness. While there are no strong signals that Peterson could sit out, monitor his gameday status on Sunday. Keep Peterson active as long as he has no setbacks. Chester Taylor could conceivably see a slightly increased workload and deserves some minor flex consideration.
» Steve Slaton (neck) is listed as probable and will start against the Colts. He is not getting enough quality touches to be a No. 2 fantasy back right now, but Slaton has scoring potential and is a viable flex player.
» Jonathan Stewart (Achilles) was able to practice in full by Thursday and will be active against the Jets. He has worked through the injury consistently and is a solid flex start against the Jets, who could have some trouble handling Carolina's running game.
» Michael Turner (ankle) is questionable and looks to be a game-time decision for Week 12. If Turner can play, RB Jason Snelling could still get enough touches to be an adequate flex player. Keep Turner reserved, however, as he could be limited and less effective even if he is active. RB Jerious Norwood (hip) appears set to return, but he has little appeal. If Turner is deactivated, start Snelling with confidence.
Wide receivers
» Bernard Berrian (hamstring) is listed as probable for Week 12. He has not been dependable this season, so you can likely find better starting choices.
» Steve Breaston (knee) was a limited participant in practices. He has been able to continually play through the issue, however, so use him in larger leagues as a No. 3 fantasy wideout.
» Laveranues Coles (chest) was limited in practices and listed as questionable for Week 12. He could be a game-time decision, so keep him reserved and go with another option. It should be rather easy to replace him in fantasy lineups.
» Justin Gage (back) is in danger of missing another game. WR Kenny Britt will likely start in his place again, but the rookie should only be used if you are desperate for a wideout in larger leagues.
» Vincent Jackson (ribs) was able to fully practice by Thursday and will start for the Chargers in Week 12. He should deliver very good fantasy totals against Kansas City.
» Mike Sims-Walker (knee) was able to fully practice by Thursday and will start for the Jaguars. He has become a top fantasy option at his position and should be locked in as he faces San Francisco.
» Reggie Wayne (foot) and Pierre Garcon (ankle) were full participants in practices and will both be active in Week 12. Wayne is arguably the top wide receiver in fantasy football right now and a must-start option. Garcon is inconsistent and should only be used as a No. 3 fantasy option.
» Roddy White (knee) was a full participant in practices and will start in Week 12. He should be locked into lineups against Tampa Bay's vulnerable defense.
Scott Engel is Managing Director and Senior NFL Editor at www.rotoexperts.com. Watch more of his Week 12 Fantasy tips on FANTASY PLAYBOOK, available on demand now at www.ubatv.com.
