Top 10 Comeback Candidates

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Jun 6, 2007

Top 10 Comeback Candidates

Randy Moss

Moss had just 42 catches for 553 yards last season in Oakland and his attitude basically forced the Raiders to trade him. Now Moss is joined with star quarterback Tom Brady and has a great chance to help New England win a Super Bowl.

Ben Roethlisberger

Roethlisberger was still rebounding from a near fatal motorcycle crash and an emergency appendectomy when he came back in Week 2 of last season. Big Ben threw 23 interceptions in 2006, compared to a combined 20 in the two previous seasons. Look for him to settle down now that he'll have an entire training camp and preseason.

John Abraham

Abraham underwent a rigorous offseason training program to increase his chance of playing a whole season. Last year, abdomen, groin and hand injuries limited the three-time Pro Bowler to eight games.

Edgerrin James

James averaged just 3.4 yards per carry last season, but new coach Ken Whisenhunt had great success with the running game in Pittsburgh and should get Edge back on track.

Takeo Spikes

Spikes was ineffective the last two seasons in Buffalo because of a torn Achilles, but he claims he feels much better now and is ready to return to Pro Bowl form with the Eagles. Spikes should be a perfect fit in Philly because of his ability to blitz and his much-needed run-stopping skills.

Simeon Rice

Rice's disappointing 2006 campaign was ended by a shoulder injury, but the Bucs are dedicated to getting to the passer this season and Rice could have a big year. Tampa Bay drafted speedy end Gaines Adams with the No. 4 overall pick, which should make it more difficult to double-team Rice.

Willis McGahee

McGahee had a disappointing 990 rushing yards for the Bills last year, but he has an excellent chance to rebound in Baltimore. Look for the Ravens to give him at least 20 carries a game throughout the season.

Patrick Kerney

Seattle rewarded Kerney with a six-year, $39.5 million contract in the offseason even though a shoulder injury shortened his season with the Falcons last year. He should be back to Pro Bowl form in Seattle.

Clinton Portis

Portis injured his shoulder in the Redskins' first preseason game and was never 100 percent. He played in eight games before breaking his hand, which ended his season. Portis has had other minor health issues, but he should be healthy enough to have another 1,200-yard-plus season.

Jevon Kearse

Kearse apparently showed up at Eagles minicamp in incredible shape after suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 2 of last season. He had 3 1/2 sacks in less than two full games last year and will be a force if he can pick up where he left off.