Rookie fullback Jacob Hester proved himself a worthy backup to LaDainian Tomlinson and a threat at the goal-line, carrying 13 times for 49 yards and 2 touchdowns. According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Hester made an even bigger mark when he threw his first career block.

Right now, Hester is the best bet to fill in for L.T., should an unfortunate injury occur, but may have the same kind of struggles as Rams’ hybrid halfback/fullback Brian Leonard had last season. These guys have enough size to be effective in small doses, but not enough speed or agility to be full-time backs. Read more »

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Meachem had a dominant first preseason outing, catching four passes for 129 yards and a touchdown in the Saints’ 24-10 win over Arizona. Meachem, a first round pick who never got on the field as he battled a knee injury last season, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, proved worthy of the heat he’s getting as a preseason sleeper in fantasy drafts.

Meachem will likely start the season as the Saints No. 3 wide receiver, which would put him behind receivers Marques Colston and David Patten and tight end Jeremy Shockey in the pecking order for catches. But, as the season wears on and his physical gifts start to shine through, he can easily carve out a bigger niche in the Saints offense. Read more »