Falcons’ Freeman an RB play
IF YOU’RE still playing fantasy football in Week 17, you’re either in one of those yearly leagues that go against popular trends, or you enjoy the daily/weekly format of gaming. Savvy fantasy players prefer to have their Super Bowls in Week 16, but some traditions are hard to shed in leagues that extend past that point of the schedule. Daily gaming keeps the adrenaline rush going and gives you more chances to win even after you’ve claimed your yearly trophy.
In either format, you have to keep track of not only which teams will be resting their starters, but stay updated on lateseason injuries. The running back situation in Atlanta certainly stands out for this week. It was a surprise to see a past-his-prime Steven Jackson play 15 games when injuries often were an issue for him during his best years. At some point, it was expected we would see more of exciting Falcons rookie Devonta Freeman. Yet it was not until last week we saw Freeman rip off a 31-yard touchdown run and flash his considerable potential.
Jackson is now expected to miss the season finale against the Panthers with a quad injury, and the versatile and very promising Freeman should get an adequate amount of work, even though the miniature Jacquizz Rodgers is expected to start. Freeman is a very enticing flex play and can make things happen any time he touches the ball. He offers needed salary relief in the daily games. Freeman is the Falcons’ RB of the future and should get enough quality touches in the title showdown game in the NFC South.
T.Y. Hilton (hamstring) appears to be ready to go against Tennessee. But the Colts have nothing to play for, and after they blatantly tanked against Dallas last week, they may not give their superstar wide receiver enough reps this week. Keep Hilton reserved.
It looks as if Lions RB Joique Bell (Achilles) will be able to play in the NFC North winner-take-all game at Green Bay. He will be a significant part of the game plan as Detroit attempts to control time of possession, so start him as your RB2.
A concussion will keep Jimmy Clausen out of the Bears’ season finale against the Vikings, so the troubled Jay Cutler will finish the season at quarterback in a meaningless matchup. Cutler has provided enough passing volume when he has started to at least be a respectable fantasy starter.
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