Although the team and a credible print source has yet to confirm the rumors circulating about RB Priest Holmes, indications that the current rumors are true are so strong, that they likely are true.
According to various reports, doctors have found a lump on Holmes' back that could cause paralysis if hit a certain way. These rumors continue to indicate that Holmes could announce his retirement as soon as Thursday.
Analysis: Larry Johnson has done a nice job, but this offense will be limited without Holmes, who is a better outside threat. The residual affect on the offense should be minimal for fantasy however, so Johnson should be more than fine, and the passing game shouldn't lose too much. As for the team's chances of going deep into the playoffs, they take a major hit if this news is true.
Obviously, for the long-term, Johnson's stock goes way up in keeper leagues, but it's important to note that the team will likely lose key linemen Willie Roaf and Will Shields in 2006, and it would not be a surprise if this team was in complete rebuild mode in 2007, or even sooner. Johnson is certainly a desirable keeper, but he won't be as good the next 2-3 years as some would think.
More to come on this situation as more news becomes available.