Excerpts from this week's 4th & Long column

Here are a few snippets from yesterday's 4th & Long column for Sporting News' Fantasy Source, as well as a couple additional injury updates...

I had Trent Richardson ranked as the No. 13 fantasy RB in the preseason, which was actually looking too generous through the first two weeks. I'm still not a big fan, but there's no denying he has upgraded his surroundings. The Colts say he will be thrown right into the starting lineup this week, but an angry 49ers defense will be waiting. You have to start him if you own him, but don't expect an immediate boost in production.

 

Meanwhile, if you're Willis McGahee, are you excited to be in Cleveland? A starting RB is a starting RB; but I wasn't high on Richardson in that offense. I'm certainly not expecting big things from a nearly 32-year-old back returning from a season-ending knee injury/broken leg that just got picked up off his couch.

Maybe next week for Le'Veon Bell (foot). He's practicing fully now, which is very encouraging news to those of us that are counting on the rookie for a midseason boost.

Don't even think about sitting Dez Bryant this week. Sure, his back is hurting; but he's a gamer and he has the potential to be the top receiver in Fantasyland every week he plays.

Rob Gronkowski (back, forearm) is getting closer, but New England is 2-0 without him and with a struggling Tampa Bay team coming to town. You gotta figure Tom Brady can eek out another win while their best receiver gets another week of rest. Don't get your hopes up that Gronk will suit up this week.

Vernon Davis is still dealing with a bum hammy but is expected to play Sunday. Look for a big bounce-back game from Colin Kaepernick, Anquan Boldin and Davis against the Colts.

Martellus Bennett dinged his shoulder last week but is back at practice and should play Sunday against the Steelers. He's a low-end starting option this week.

Speaking of the Steelers, they may get Heath Miller back this weekend. Grab him now if you need depth at tight end. He's Ben Roethlisberger's security blanket, and you can bet Miller will be welcomed back with plenty of targets once he's fully healthy.

The inevitable transition of the Bengals' backfield is underway as Giovani Bernard improves his pass-protection skills. He and BenJarvus Green-Ellis are still splitting carries, and the Law Firm is expected to retain his goal-line duties; but it's only a matter of time before the rookie vaults into the starting lineup.

Josh Gordon is back for the Browns. Think he's stoked that Brian Hoyer will be under center for his first game?

PERSONAL NOTES

TO AHMAD BRADSHAW: My wife is a realtor. Call her, maybe?

TO LESEAN MCCOY: I admit I have a man-crush on you, but my heart can't handle the hysterics, dude. Please don't do that to us again, Shady.

TO KENNY BRITT: I'm guessing you have a solid plan in place for your post-NFL career, because you're playing as if you're ready to announce your retirement.