Dynasty Rising/Falling: Quarterbacks

I posted this article on Rotworld's Pancake Blocks blog earlier today. It's a list of five QBs rising and five QBs falling in value since the beginning of offseason practices in May.

Since the unveiling of our first offseason Dynasty rankings back in May, spring practices have seen several players gaining momentum while others are losing steam. Here’s a brief look at the quarterback movement:

Rising

1. Brett Favre – He’s heading into the season as a red light injury risk for the first time in his career, but the Vikes’ offense is ready to explode into elite fantasy territory. Football Outsiders Almanac predicts a lofty 3,500+ yards, 25 TDs and a 66% completion rate for Favre this season.

2. Kyle Orton – Expected to be the starter all along, Orton absorbed Josh McDaniels’ offense and made quick work of Chris Simms in the quarterback “competition.” After two months of drama and speculation, his top receiving weapon is vowing to attend camp on time.

3. Carson Palmer – The elbow still leaves room for doubt, but all signs were positive this spring. Led by a rejuvenated Ochocinco and a reformed Chris Henry, the Bengals receivers boast more depth and playmaking ability this season than last.

4. Alex Smith – GM Scot McCloughan’s pet project reportedly threw with “stunning accuracy” while outplaying Shaun Hill in pajamas this spring. If Smith manages to snag the starting job away from Hill this preaseason, he’ll be throwing to the most talented group of receivers he’s ever had.

5. Matt Leinart – Rave reviews about Leinart’s newfound maturity and work ethic are pouring in, and he’s finally mastered Ken Whisenhunt’s offense. Should Warner go down with an injury or retire after the season, Leinart will be at the helm of one of the NFL's most explosive offenses.

Falling

1. Shaun Hill – Even if he makes for an interesting QB2 gamble in redraft leagues, it’s clear that the Niners don’t see him as the long-term answer. Ever in danger of a permanent demotion, he could lose all value at a moment’s notice.

2. JaMarcus Russell – Squandering the momentum he had built up with a strong finish to 2008, Russell authored a disastrous spring. As if the overwhelming concerns about his work ethic weren’t enough, he now has a motivated Jeff Garcia breathing down his neck.

3. Sage Rosenfels – The practically perfect backup QB was poised for a breakout season with a dangerous deep threat (Berrian), healthy red zone weapon (Rice), explosive rookie playmaker (Harvin) and a dynamite rushing attack. Instead, it looks like he’ll be carrying the clipboard for Favre.

4. Joe Flacco – His only reliable pass-catcher claims he’s now retired while his third receiver and both veteran tight ends are limping through another summer. Are the Ravens ready to unravel this season?

5. Derek Anderson – Despite Eric Mangini’s insistence that the starter won’t be named until deep into preseason action, Brady Quinn is the unanimous favorite among those covering the team. As Football Outsiders Almanac points out, Anderson is little more than a three-game wonder at this point in his career.