Gore, V-Jax out

Just a quick note to be sure you heard the news that Frank Gore is out for the season after injuring his hip in the Monday night tilt with the Cards.


Brian Westbrook looked surprisingly spry in relief last night, running for 136 yards and a TD. Granted, it came against an awful Arizona defense, and the road gets tougher this weekend (at Green Bay). But the 49ers' schedule during the fantasy playoffs is pretty favorable (including the Seahawks in Week 14 and Rams in Week 16), so Westy could be a nice add for teams heading into the postseason. Especially those who were counting on Gore.

Also, Vincent Jackson injured his groin on Sunday while overcompensating for a nagging calf injury incurred during practice last week. He's expected to miss 2 weeks, which would then -- at best -- make him a risky start in Week 15. There's always a chance he could dazzle then, and in Week 16; but there's also a chance he'll be deadweight for two weeks, then a big question mark for the duration.

Plan accordingly.

V-Jax can play in Week 5, if traded

The NFL just announced that Vincent Jackson may play in Week 5 if he is traded by 4:00 PM (Eastern) next Wed., Sept. 22. This, per an agreement reached between the NFL and the players union. Jackson will have to serve the full six-game suspension if he isn't dealt before the deadline.

This is huge news, in that is resolves a thorny impediment to Jackson's mobility, and it puts a timeline on a potential move. If the Pro Bowl WR is going to play, and San Diego is going to get any value from him, they'd better make a deal fast.

The Vikings are at the top of the rumor mill, and there's no doubt that they and at least a few other teams have already started talking possible terms with the Chargers. A trade cannot be consummated any earlier than Friday at 4:00 PM.

Frankly, there aren't many teams that couldn't use a player of Jackson's ability. If he's available in your league, scoop him up now. Week 5 will be here before you know it, and there's a good chance he'll be the leading receiver for whichever team ponies up for him.