LeGarrette Blount not a great fantasy pickup despite Vereen injury
LeGarrette Blount was one of the hot names being thrown around in fantasy football discussions as soon as it was announced that Shane Vereen would be out until Week 11.
Vereen replaced Stevan Ridley in the second quarter of the New England Patriots’ win over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday after Ridley lost a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. The former Cal running back looked great and was one of the best playmakers on the Pats’ offense. He racked up over 150 total yards, but he broke his wrist and was placed on injured reserve/designated to return because he is going to have surgery.
The injury to Vereen leaves the Patriots with fewer options at running back. They will likely go back to Ridley despite the former LSU back’s two fumbles on Sunday (only one was lost). Blount is another option. He rushed for 15 yards on seven carries. We don’t imagine he’ll be seeing enough action to merit a spot on your fantasy team. He would only be a great pickup if Ridley got injured.
The other Patriots backs to keep your eye on are Leon Washington and Brandon Bolden. Washington plays on special teams as a returner and has been a good pass-receiving back during his career. Bolden went undrafted out of Ole Miss in 2012 and rushed for 274 yards and two touchdowns last season. Neither player will be a fantasy factor.
