Fantasy Football: Replacing Adrian Peterson

Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

This has not been a great week to be a fantasy running back. Ray Rice had his contract terminated after the fallout from his domestic abuse case involving his then fiancée, now wife.

More from Fantasy Football

Things got even worse on Friday after news broke that Adrian Peterson was a wanted man in the state of Texas. His case also involved abuse, but in Peterson’s case it was the abuse of a child. The Vikings acted quickly and deactivated Peterson for Sunday’s game.

This leaves a mighty big hole in many fantasy lineups as Adrian Peterson was either a keeper or your first pick. There is no way you can possibly completely fill that void assuming Peterson does miss significant time. Here are a few potential options who are available in a majority of leagues who could be worth a look.

Matt Asiata– The most obvious beneficiary in this situation is Asiata, who most likely will see the majority of early down carries in the Vikings offense. Jerrick McKinnon will most likely be the 3^rd down and passing downs back.

Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Johnathan Stewart– This could be more of a one week filler option, as Stewart is expected to start for the injured DeAngelo Williams this week. With the short notice owners had, Stewart should be picked up in a majority of leagues and if you have no better options look to start him. Who knows? Maybe Stewart will become a relevant fantasy contributor again.

Ahmad Bradshaw– Bradshaw is currently owned in only 26.8% of ESPN Fantasy leagues and 12.8% of NFL.com leagues. Trent Richardson’s struggles have been well documented, and so far 2014 has brought much of the same. There is a growing belief that the Colts could turn to Bradshaw at some point this season. With ownership numbers like that, there is a good chance Bradshaw is available in your league. If you have the roster spot it could be worth it to stash him away.
Justin Forsett– Forsett remains available in 73% of ESPN fantasy leagues. Though he did take a step back in week 2, he showed he could potentially be a viable option for fantasy owners. Plus, any running back that could see starter-like carries is worth stashing on your team, especially if Peterson ends up missing an extended period of time
Bobby Rainey– Rainey could be another running back to watch this season. Thought he is currently backing up Doug Martin, Rainey got a chance to shine last week when Martin left with an injury. If Martin is unavailable for Week 2, then Rainey could step in and could get the chance to shine again. He is also probably available in your league, and he is definitely worth a look in case the diminutive Martin gets injured again.

Home/Fantasy Football