DeMarco Murray, Maurice Morris Are Fantasy Week 7’s Hot Pickups

With injuries piling up in the NFL, there are several hot fantasy pickups for week 7 of the NFL season. We’ll highlight a few recommendations.

DeMarco Murray is one of the top pickups because of Felix Jones’ sprained ankle. Murray is a rookie running back out of Oklahoma who has seen action throughout the entire season. He carried the ball a season-high 10 times against the Patriots and ran for 32 yards. The length of Jones’ injury (2-4 weeks) gives Murray some appeal, especially considering that several teams will have byes the next few weeks.

Keep in mind about 75% of the Cowboys’ yards are passing, and nine of their 10 offensive touchdowns have been through the air. They’re not a running team, so you shouldn’t expect much out of this position. Additionally, Tashard Choice will split time with Murray, making this an even less desirable spot. Still, with players being out because of byes, Murray will be a nice plug-in at the flex. He should get at least six points each of the next two weeks.

Maurice Morris may be a worthwhile pickup depending on the status of Jahvid Best. Best was concussed at the end of the Lions-49ers game Sunday. It’s a bad sign for him, given his concussion problems at Cal (remember this play?), and the concussion he suffered in training camp. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he sat out Sunday’s game against the Falcons.

Morris is a former second-round pick of the Seahawks and he’s a capable back. He had five carries for 20 yards against the Niners and appears to be second on the depth chart. He’s worth a pickup pending Best’s status, but there are two caveats in this situation. One, like Dallas, Detroit is a passing team. Two, Keiland Williams would likely share some of the carries.

Overall, I would bet on Morris putting up more points than Murray should they become the starters. Murray’s appeal is that Felix Jones’ injury is likely to last longer.

UPDATE: The Lions also acquired Ronnie Brown in a trade Tuesday. Morris would still be the favorite for carries Sunday if Best does not play, but long term, Morris’ value is not strong.

UPDATE II: The trade was canceled after Harrison failed his physical. Morris remains a strong play if Jahvid Best misses this week’s game.