Fred Jackson’s Wife Didn’t Draft Him Until 5th Round of Fantasy Football

Fred Jackson has been one of the most productive running backs this season. The undrafted back from Coe College has 721 rushing yards through 7 games, 353 receiving yards, and 6 touchdowns. He’s been one of the most consistent producers from week-to-week, and he’s right up there with Adrian Peterson and LeSean McCoy as the most productive backs in fantasy football. His stellar season has been surprising — even for his own wife.

In a glowing article about Fred’s MVP-like season, the Buffalo News says that Jackson’s wife didn’t select her husband until the 5th round of her fantasy draft. Danielle Jackson was playing in a league with family and friends and told them Fred was off limits. But then she took Michael Vick in the first round, and went with Michael Turner as her first running back.

She’s happily in first place, as are most teams that drafted Fred late. But does taking him late mean she didn’t think he was worthy of a first-round pick? Or was she just using good strategy by taking players she knew wouldn’t be available later in the draft? Maybe it’s a little of both. And we forgive her if she’s surprised by her husband’s start. What’s more surprising than his success is the way Buffalo has made him their lead back. Most people figured he’d be splitting time with former top-10 pick C.J. Spiller.

Helmet knock to Pro Football Talk for the story.