Unsung RBs to target in a Keeper League

[Cavaliere19 0]

Every year there are a handful of back-up rbs that are good players to target in a keeper league. They can usually be obtained for cheap because they are current backups, but have the potential to score starting gigs in the following season because of free agency, or an aging player ahead of them.

 

Two examples from the last few years that come to mind are LJ and Lamont Jordan. Both were playing behind pro bowl runners and became great fantasy players (ok, Jordan's lasted 1 season) when they got a chance to start. Here are a few guys you can get now, and stash on your roster in hopes they tab a starting gig in 2008.

 

Michael Turner - He's been in this position for a few years now. But it sounds like he really is going to become a FA next year. Like LJ, he has shown flashes of brilliance in limited playing time. Could be a real stud depending on what team/scheme he goes to.

 

DeAngelo Williams - Foster is signed to a big cap amount next year, and it seems unlikely the Pathers will retain him. The chances of Williams getting his shot increase if there is a coaching change in Carolina as well. He's been inconsistant, but has shown flashes of big play ability in both the running and passing game. Could be a poor man's Westbrook with enough touches.

 

Julius Jones - If Dalls resigns Barber (RFA) it is likely Jones will be shipped out this offseason after almost being traded on draft day this year. Jones has a 1,000 yard season under his belt, and has the proven ability to be a 20 carry RB in the NFL. Hasn't played as well in a committe as he did when he was a starter. He's young and will be eager to prove himself. Couple that with a change of scenery, and he could be solid in 2008.

 

Michael Bush - Jordan has regressed after a strong start and is due a big payday in 2008, Fargas is a FA, and the Raiders felt good enough about Bush to draft him in the middle rounds despite his injury. I expect the Raiders to resign Fargas, and hold on to Rhodes for depth, and make BUsh their "starter" in 2008 if he proves his injury is behind him.

 

Jason Wright/ Jerome Harrison - Jamal Lewis only signed a 1-year deal, and is unlikely to be retained in 2008. If the Browns don't sign a FA or draft a RB, they could hand over the reigns to Wright or Harrison. Both players have showed ability in limited playing time. Wright will be in a contract year in 2008. It might be worth pickup up either of these guys and stashing them on your roster just in case.

 

Selvin Young/Andre Hall - If Henry does end up getting suspended for a year, he will miss a majority of the 2008 season, meaning Young or Hall could be Denver's main ballcarrier next year. Then again, who knows what denver will do at RB from week to week.

[Dr. Octopus 0]

Julius Jones - If Dalls resigns Barber (RFA) it is likely Jones will be shipped out this offseason after almost being traded on draft day this year. Jones has a 1,000 yard season under his belt, and has the proven ability to be a 20 carry RB in the NFL. Hasn't played as well in a committe as he did when he was a starter. He's young and will be eager to prove himself. Couple that with a change of scenery, and he could be solid in 2008.

 

They will not have to ship him out. Jones is an UFA. My prediction is that he signs with Seattle to replace Alexander. Houston would also be a strong possbility.