Danny Woodhead to fill Darren Sproles like role
By Mike Dyce
The San Diego Chargers want to use running back Ryan Mathews as their featured back. They also went out an acquired former New England Patriots running back Danny Woodhead and want to use
From the Union-Tribune San Diego:
"The expectation is for the 28-year-old to be assigned in the Chargers offense a role resembling what Darren Sproles knew during the final years of his 2005 to 2010 tenure. Only a small sample will be seen in Arizona, but Woodhead figures to be active in the third-down and two-minute offense this season. The Chargers can line him up in the slot. Considered a more natural rusher than Sproles, he can motion back into the backfield and pose a threat as a runner, even on early downs.This role as a complementary piece to Ryan Mathews in the passing game has proven to be productive one."
That means that Woodhead could be a sleeper fantasy pick. Woodhead had a career-high 40 catches last season, a career high for him. In Sproles’ last season with San Diego he caught 59 passes.
“His versatility stands out,” running back Ronnie Brown said. “His football IQ and awareness as far knowing what to do and understanding concepts, understanding the defense and what they’re trying to do, being able to move from running back to receiver in the slot, I think he offers a lot. He creates a mismatch for the defenses.”
Woodhead is ready for the role.
“I try to be ready for whatever circumstance,” said Woodhead. “It takes a lot of studying, but that’s what we’re here to do. It’s my job, and I take it serious. Whenever I get the opportunity to do something, I want to make sure I know what to do. That’s the only way you can play fast, if you know what to do.”