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Training Camp Notes: Ring the Bell

The Steelers and Vikings are the only teams who have reported to Training Camp, so there is not a lot of news to discuss. However, there are still a few interesting tidbits that are worth mentioning as we attempt to fill our thirst for anything and everything football.

  • Le'Veon Bell reported to camp in outstanding shape and appears to be close to fully healed from the knee injury he suffered at the end of the 2014 season. Bell also "looked noticeably explosive" in on-field work during the first day of camp according to ESPN.com. This is good news for Bell's fantasy value and should help ease some of the fear about taking him in the first round. It is easy to forget, but were it not for his three-game suspension he would likely be the number one overall pick in most fantasy drafts. While it is far too early to make any true assertions about Bell's health, it is certainly good to hear that he is feeling good and looking healthy.
  • Mike Pettine reiterated to reporters that Josh McCown is the favorite to be the Browns' starting quarterback in Week 1 of the season. While this is not a surprise, it is worth noting; this is especially true for two quarterback leagues. Yet, with the lack of offensive weapons around him, in addition to the team's propensity to run the ball, McCown should be considered among the lower tier of starting quarterbacks in the league.
  • According to ESPN.com's Nick Wagoner, Todd Gurley will likely be on the field for St. Louis prior to the Rams' Week 6 bye. This is positive news as it appears Gurley will not start the season on the PUP list, meaning he will not be forced to miss the first six games of the season. It is unclear if Gurley will be ready for Week 1, but staying off the PUP list should be a major boon for his fantasy value. Gurley's upside is sky high, so keep a close eye on his progress as you may be able to get him at a slight discount if people are afraid of the injury.
  • The Bills expect Sammy Watkins be medically cleared for the start of training camp; the second-year receiver appears to be progressing well in his recovery from offseason hip surgery. Watkins may be limited early on in camp, but should have no problem getting his body ready to go by Week 1, provided he does not suffer any setbacks.