Salutations my loyal Razzscallions, and welcome to Razzball’s in-season coverage. Hopefully you found the place alright. After all, it is the internet and you don’t really need directions. Then again I get lost on the web all the time. In fact, for reasons unknown I always stumble onto the same site entirely by accident. Some sort of hub for porn. At least that’s what I tell the lovely Mrs. Lifshitz when she checks my history. No matter, you’re not here to learn about my trials and tribulations with technology. You’re here for the same reason as everyone else, to join me in belittling that goon Tehol Beddict and his strange love for Tyrod Taylor. I can neither confirm or deny if he’s been playing with Frank Beamer’s balls. But before we commence the Tehol bashing, let’s discuss some early season potential waiver adds to keep an eye on. Because maybe you had a few too many pops at that Labor Day BBQ, overslept the draft, and ended up with an autodrafted nightmare. Not to worry we got you covered you boozy loser.
In the weeks that follow I will list ownership numbers in Yahoo, ESPN, and our RCL’s, but with the mad rush for last minute drafting, I’ll hold off until Week 2. Go ahead call me lazy….
Dion Lewis – After the offseason departure of Shane Veeren to the Giants, most assumed that sophomore back James White would assume the passing back duties in the Patriots offense. After all, White followed the Vereen model of red shirting his rookie season, and learning the offense behind the scenes. Seemed like sound logic, but is anything with the Patriots backfield ever logical? From out of almost nowhere, former Pitt standout (and NFL flame out) Dion Lewis emerged from camp as the clear frontrunner to assume the role. The eventual return of Travaris Cadet could cloud things a bit, but at the moment, Lewis remains in the drivers seat. For Week 1, Lewis is a must add in all PPR formats.
Brandon Boldin – Maybe I’m grasping at straws here, but the speculation around New England at the moment is that Bolden will be the Week 1 fill-in for suspended lead back LeGarrette Blount. Predicting usage at the running back position in the Patriots offense is always wonky. But with Jonas Gray dispatched to the scrapheap and Blount out this week, it seems like the perfect setting for a one week wonder from the veteran special teamer.
Christine Michael – I’m pretty sure I can finally confirm Michael’s existence after he was acquired by the Cowboys last week. This one comes with a disclaimer, as he more than likely will be inactive Week 1. Nevertheless, Michael makes an intriguing grab and stash, especially when you factor in the underwhelming trio of Joseph Randle, Darren McFadden, and Lance Dunbar. We’re also of course discussing a team that just so happens to have a lead back vacancy behind the offensive line that produced the top rusher in the NFL last season. After rumors of a committee emerged late in camp, many backed off of high pre-season expectations for Randle. Now the waters are even murkier with Michael being added to the equation. Here’s how I look at it, this is Michael’s chance to see if he can deliver the goods. If he can’t emerge from this cesspool of has beens and never weres, than he’s just another overhyped prospect.
James Jones – This one is easy peasy from both sides, Jones needs a team and a familiar enviroment, the Packers need guys with hands attached to their arms and legs that run. Hopefully Jones can settle back in immediately and pickup where he left off with Rodgers. With Jordy Nelson out for the season and Randall Cobb already banged up, Jones could jump into some serious PT.
Phillip Dorsett – The SON covered it pretty well here, watch out, we call my man SON cause he shines like one… Should be the clear cut number three in a high volume offense with Andrew Luck at the helm. Should see a solid amount of targets, presents a ton of upside. That last line remined me of Tehol’s sisters. They see a ton of targets.
Kamar Aiken – With Breshad Perriman out till October, Aiken will start alongside Steve Smith Sr.. I’m unsure of the total upside here but he’s a guy to keep in eye on in deeper leagues like 16+. He’s way off your radar in RCL’s.
Benny Cunningham – With Todd Gurley weeks away and Tre Mason being labeled a game-time decision Cunningham could see himself in the lead back role for the Rams in week one. If Mason is inactive, and you’re on the prowl for anyone with a heartbeat you might be Tehol at the Eagle Leather Bar in Downtown Seattle. Or you could add Cunningham because your other running backs are Arain Foster, LeVeon Bell, and Todd Gurley. I’m just looking for reasons you might be looking to start someone against Seattle’s defense.
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