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We are kicking off the TimersSports Fantasy Football Marathon with running back sleepers. This is easily one of premiere positions in the game. The limited legitimate running back outside of mid-round 3. So while guys like Peterson , McCoy , Foster , Lynch and Charles are the running backs gems. But there are hiddened middle of the road backs known best as role running backs (aka depth). So let get started!
Sleepers -
Stevan Ridley: If you drafted Ridley (like myself..luckily I manage to get a 3rd pick for him), then I can understand your doubt. Ridley was clearly a bust at No.21 overall in 2013. Mainly because he cannot hold onto the ball. Fortunately there a few things to like about him in 2014. The noticeable would his average draft position (ADP). His ADP is 62. In other words , you aren't giving up a lot with selecting him. At best he just added depth at rb. Heck if he does start the year off well , he would be a fantastic trading piece to upgrade at other positions. The departure of Blout also helps his cause. As Veneer is no more then a pass-catcher out of the backfield. Ridley easily could be the primary back for the Pats with a great camp and preseason.
Ben Tate: After being draft in 2010 to become the starting running back for Houston. He got plagued with injuries his rookie year. Which allowed unknown undrafted rookie Arian Foster to pounce on the ultimate opportunity. Four years later , he finally get his shot in the spotlight and out of Foster shadow. Tate have all of the potential to be a terrific value deal. He's most likely go in the 7th round (as right now). There were clearly a few times in 2013 where he showed flashes of what he can bring to the table.
Steven Jackson: The former St. Louis Rams star back finds himself to be under the radar after a lackluster 2013. Its wasn't 100% Jackson fault ,but his absent on the field had a effect with his overall stats. Probably why he dropped like a rock (In ADP and Overall value). Staying healthy will be key. He could have a great bounce back season. Given the line can hold up and the star Wrs can stay on the field.
James Starks: JS is arguably one of the most underrated backups in the league. Eddie Lacy tore it up last season as a rookie. While James led all backs with 80+ carries in YPC category. Also rushed for over 500 yards in a limited role. That alone should make him a desirable draft pick. Need more? Lacy suffered multiple injuries as a rookie and rumors are his workload to decrease in 2014. Which means JS will get more playing time.
Fred Jackson: CJ Spiller was a 1st Round bust , while Jackson was able to make the most out his opportunities. Jackson was on my short list sleepers at rb in 2013. As I expected , he made me look good. He managed to stay healthy as well. Clearly that was something both Spiller and Jackson have had problems with in previous seasons. In 2013 , He rushed 206 for 890 yards and 9 TDs. Spiller rushed 202 for 933 yards and 2 TDs. Spiller missed one game though.
Well that's all for Rbs. Tomorrow we finish up on sleepers with Wide Receivers and Tight ends.
Twitter -@WilliamFrang
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Thanks for reading
William Frang
