Unveiling the Cardinals' Running Backs: A Fantasy Football Goldmine?
Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Welcome back to our series where we delve into the nitty-gritty of NFL teams, uncovering those gems that could make or break your fantasy season. Today, we're going to take a closer look at the Arizona Cardinals' running backs, a position that's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride in recent years, but could be ready to explode onto the fantasy scene. So, buckle up, grab your notepads, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and cardinals running backs fantasy.
The Current State of Affairs: A Tale of Two Running Backs
The Cardinals' backfield has been a tale of two running backs for the past couple of seasons, with Kenyan Drake and Chase Edmonds sharing the workload. But with Drake now donning a Miami Dolphins jersey, the stage is set for Edmonds to take the reins as the lead back. But is he ready to carry the full load? Let's find out.
Chase Edmonds: The New Sheriff in Town
Chase Edmonds has been a bit of a fantasy tease, showing flashes of brilliance but never quite breaking out due to the timeshare with Drake. However, with Drake gone, Edmonds has the opportunity to finally showcase his skills as the lead back. Here's what we can expect from Edmonds in 2021:
- Receiving Ability: Edmonds is a pass-catching specialist, hauling in 53 receptions for 402 yards and three touchdowns in his three seasons with the Cardinals. With Kyler Murray slinging the ball around, Edmonds could see a significant number of targets out of the backfield. - Elusive Runner: Edmonds has shown the ability to make defenders miss in the open field. In 2020, he forced 16 missed tackles on just 67 attempts, according to Pro Football Focus. - Health Concerns: The knock on Edmonds has always been his durability. He's missed 13 games in his three seasons due to various injuries. If he can stay healthy, he has the talent to be a top-15 fantasy running back.
James Conner: The Wild Card
The Cardinals brought in James Conner via free agency, and while he's not the most exciting addition, he could carve out a significant role in Arizona's backfield. Conner has shown the ability to be a workhorse back in the past, carrying the ball 215 times for 973 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2018 with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, he's struggled with injuries in recent years, limiting his production.
Conner's main fantasy appeal will come from his goal-line work. With Edmonds being more of a pass-catching back, Conner could see most of the red-zone carries. In standard leagues, Conner is a late-round flier with significant upside if Edmonds goes down with an injury.
The Cardinals' Offense: A Fantasy Goldmine?
The Cardinals' offense has the potential to be one of the most explosive in the NFL in 2021. Murray is coming off a season where he threw for 3,971 yards and 26 touchdowns while also rushing for 819 yards and 11 scores. With DeAndre Hopkins and A.J. Green leading the receiving corps, the Cardinals have one of the most talented offenses in the league.
If the Cardinals' offense takes a step forward in 2021, their running backs could see a significant increase in fantasy production. Murray's ability to extend plays keeps defenses honest, opening up lanes for the running game. Additionally, the Cardinals' offense should be in plenty of positive game scripts, leading to more rushing attempts.
Draft Strategy: When to Target Cardinals' Running Backs
In fantasy drafts, Edmonds should be treated as a high-end RB2 with low-end RB1 upside. His ADP (average draft position) should be around the late third to early fourth round, making him a solid value pick. Conner, on the other hand, is more of a late-round flier. His ADP should be around the 10th or 11th round, making him a high-risk, high-reward pick.
Final Thoughts
The Cardinals' running back situation is as intriguing as it is uncertain. Edmonds has the talent to be a top-15 fantasy back but must stay healthy to reach that ceiling. Conner is a risky late-round flier with significant upside if Edmonds goes down with an injury. Regardless of who starts, the Cardinals' offense has the potential to be a fantasy goldmine in 2021. Keep an eye on this backfield throughout the preseason, and don't be afraid to take a chance on Edmonds or Conner in your fantasy drafts.
That's all for today, folks! Thanks for joining us on this exploration of the Cardinals' running backs. Be sure to check back soon as we continue our fantasy football journey, diving into more teams and positions. Until then, happy drafting!