Suspensions Lifted

It's not often that I take a look at fantasy options, but the free agent acquisitions of three key suspended players can turn some 1-3 or 0-4 teams around.

In New York, the Jets get back WR Santonio Holmes, who should continue adding to Mark Sanchez's growth in his second year as the starting quarterback. Holmes gives the Jets a true No. 1 receiver, and will be far more consistent than Braylon Edwards. Be prepared, opposing defenses.

In Pittsburgh, embattled QB Ben Roethlisberger is back among the team, though Week 5 is their bye. The Steelers played well without him, but having back Big Ben allows WRs Mike Wallace and Hines Ward to have more value in fantasy leagues, as well as bringing RB Rashard Mendenhall's value up as a viable checkdown option, and an effective power-runner.

And, if you play with a D-player in your league, 2009 Defensive Rookie of the Year Brian Cushing returns to the Houston Texans this week after a 4-week suspension. The Texans have sorely missed their young play-maker, and he's going to be hungry to prove his worth after the debacle regarding performance-enhancing drugs that nearly cost him his DROY award.

Otherwise, in fantasy, we may see some extra juice out of the Vikings with the acquisition of Randy Moss, who can help Favre's numbers, and draw men out of the box to further help AP.