Who will be the best fantasy running back in Seattle?
When the Seahawks traded for LenDale White during the NFL Draft, it seemed as if the former Southern California standout was destined to rebound and become fantasy relevant once again. After all, he was a former 1,100-yard runner with the Titans and would be re-united with his former collegiate coach, Pete Carroll. Then came his sudden release in May and a change of the guard in the team's backfield occurred.
Fantasy owners, let me introduce you to sleeper running back Justin Forsett.
Forsett actually made an impact last season, though it was short lived. During a three-game stretch in November, he recorded a combined 13 receptions, 368 scrimmage yards and scored four total touchdowns. In two of those contests, Forsett averaged 5.9 yards per carry or more.
That's an impressive statistic for a 5-foot-8, 194-pound runner.
While his size is a bit of an issue -- Forsett has little chance to be a featured back for a full 16 games -- he is clearly the best option for Carroll. Julius Jones is a former 1,000-yard rusher for the Cowboys, but he's been inconsistent and unimpressive overall in the Great Northwest. Leon Washington is also in the mix, but there is a legitimate chance he won't even be ready for training camp.
Remember, Washington suffered a gruesome leg injury against the Raiders last season and is a candidate to start camp on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
That leaves Forsett as the clear-cut best option for Carroll and fantasy owners alike. He's a great fit for the team's zone-blocking scheme and should have no problem holding off Jones for the top spot on the depth chart.
Forsett is also a very versatile back, catching 41 passes with one touchdown reception in 2009. That makes him even more valuable in PPR formats.
Another reason to like Forsett is the team's upcoming schedule, as he'll play games against the Rams (2), Saints, Panthers, Buccaneers, Raiders, Chargers, Broncos, Chiefs and Bears. The Rams, Raiders and Chiefs were three of the four easiest teams for running backs to score fantasy points on in 2009.
There is a chance that the Seahawks will look to acquire another running back - Marshawn Lynch's name has been mentioned -- but as it stands, Forsett will benefit the most from the release of White. While it's hard to envision a scenario where'll he be a true featured option like Chris Johnson or Adrian Peterson, Forsett will see enough touches to be a viable No. 3 fantasy runner or flex option in all leagues.
Bottom line: Barring a trade for another back, Forsett emerge as the top runner in Seattle ... and will make a fantasy impact.
