Monday was another quiet day on the NFL front. While the biggest fantasy news was the health status of elite running backs Le'Veon Bell and David Johnson, there were a couple other rushers of note to highlight.
Le'Veon Bell underwent surgery Monday to repair a core muscle injury. While you'll want to keep tabs on his timeline, it's unlikely his status as an elite fantasy asset or the potential No. 1 virtual pick is in significant danger. Still, Bell was sidelined for the majority of the AFC Championship Game and has missed 20 of 70 professional games because of suspensions or injuries through his four-year career. Additionally, the bottom falls out quickly for running backs, so it isn't out of the question that Bell may have already reached his fantasy peak. Just remember that 80 percent of Bell's per-game output is still league-winning production, so there is a lot of room for negative regression before he falls short of being a set-and-forget No. 1 running back.
David Johnson confirmed his left knee has recovered from an MCL sprain, and he's ready to fully train leading into the season. Following a 20-touchdown, 2118-yard showing during his sophomore campaign, Johnson being physically ready to participate in most -- if not all -- of the offseason program is encouraging for his fantasy stock. He's in contention for the first overall selection in all formats, and Johnson's carried the rock just 418 times through his first two seasons. So, not only is there limited wear on the tires, Johnson is also the focal point for the Arizona attack. He finished second in targets (120) and caught 80 balls last year, after all. You'll likely need a top-two pick to secure his services in 2017.
Robert Turbin re-upped with the Colts and projects to serve in a similar complimentary role as last season. The journeyman back found the end zone eight times and caught 26 passes in 2016, and while those numbers are obviously touchdown tilted in fantasy value, Turbin's nose for pay dirt was rewarded. Barring other additions, he will also be next in line behind an aging Frank Gore, so there is also handcuff value attached to Turbin. The 27-year-old back is likely best utilized as a best-ball asset or late-round flier in deep leagues. However, the Indianapolis offense can put its rishers in a position to succeed, so there is plenty of upside if Turbin ever garnered the lion's share of carries.
Rex Burkhead visited with the Patriots on Monday. Interestingly, his agent also represents New England head coach Bill Belichick, and the Pats have a backfield opening with Brandon Bolden out of the mix. Burkhead totalled a career-high 633 all-purpose yards and can also make a difference on special teams. Being attached to the prolific New England offense is a fantasy boon on the surface, but it will also likely be accompanied by extreme peaks and valleys from week to week. Burkhead is an intriguing gamble in dynasty/keeper settings, but you'll want to keep expectations in check in yearly settings at this point. When it's all settled, he'll likely be most useful as a daily option for a handful of weeks next season.
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