Redskins rookie running back Alfred Morris looks like the most advisable fantasy addition after Week 1 of the NFL season. The sixth-round pick from Florida Atlantic was the Redskins’ leading rusher in their upset win over the Saints.
Morris carried the ball 28 times for 96 yards and two short touchdowns in his NFL debut. He got almost all the action and didn’t even share carries with Evan Royster or Roy Helu like many expected.
Royster entered the game listed as the No. 1 running back on the Skins’ depth chart, but even he wasn’t confident he’d see a majority of the carries. Helu is coming of an Achilles’ tendon injury, so he wasn’t expected to lead the team in carries, but he was still used less than many expected.
The final breakdown was 28 carries for Morris, and just two for both Royster and Helu, though Helu did catch three passes. Even fullback Darrel Young had as many carries as Royster and Helu.
Redskins coach Mike Shanahan is extraordinarily aggravating when it comes to managing running back situations, but it looks like he’s found his guy. With the 40-point outburst in their opener, going away from Morris would be pointless until he slows down. And unlike past years for the Redskins, they actually have a competent quarterback who represents a dual-threat on offense, which should result in plenty of points and more opportunities for the running back.
Yup, Alfred Morris looks like the top running back in D.C., at least for now. Add him to your fantasy team if he’s still available in your league.
