Back From the Dead

Boo! Okay, the title’s a little morbid but it’s almost Halloween and I’m in a scary mood. In actuality, no zombies are taking the field as far as I know (well, except maybe Chad Pennington). This article is about four players who are coming back to the football field from either long-term injury or suspension who may (or may not) be of use to you in the stretch. Ideally they are on the waiver wire for your consideration. Just to be clear, they weren’t literally dead or buried, just figuratively. What is this, English 101? Enough already. Let’s start with the obvious.

• Chris Henry (WR, Cincinnati Bengals) – Lots of fantasy chatter about Henry’s return. He does have the benefit of coming back to an offense that is forced to air it out every week to keep pace with their sieve-like defense. He will undoubtedly step right back into his touchdown vulturing role from last season. Not good if you get PPR but great in TD focused leagues. Projected Return: Week 10

• Rod Smith (WR, Denver Broncos) – Okay, let’s not get too excited. He’s still on the PUP list which means his shot at playing in a few weeks are undecided. Still, with Denver in a state of wide receiver drought, Smith’s return could show up huge. He is definitely worth monitoring. Possible Return: Week 10

• Alex Smith (QB, San Francisco 49ers) – Going from an “out-for-the-season” prediction to back in a few weeks is impressive. Smith’s a surprisingly quick healer apparently and is ready to jump back in the pocket as early as this weekend. Perhaps it is the tasty treat of facing a lame New Orleans defense that has him feeling healthy. He’s worth a look in a pinch as he has other appetizing matchups ahead on his schedule. Projected Return: Week 8

• Ricky Williams (RB, Miami Dolphins) – Yes, as unbelievable as it sounds, Ricky Williams is probably going to be back in an NFL uniform in the next couple weeks. That opens the door to a lot of questions and possibilities. If he’s in shape, goes to a team (assuming the Fins dump him for a draft pick) with an offense he recognizes, and has his head on straight, Williams could actually be useful. If Miami does keep him, he could have immediate impact. If he goes elsewhere, we will just have to wait and see. I know! It sounds incredible but so did the headline “Priest Holmes returns!” I expect to see Emmitt Smith’s name tossed around the wire any minute now. Go figure. Possible Return: Week 10

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