Antone Smith-RB-Atlanta Falcons (1.1%)
Another player to keep a close eye on who could emerge as a nice fantasy option if he gets increased playing time is Falcons RB Antone Smith. Smith has been very effective when he gets opportunities, but he’s in a horrible situation where he’s bogged down in a committee in which he plays a small role.
Last week against the Vikings, Smith broke a 48-yard touchdown finishing with 62 yards on four carries. In week three, he broke a 38-yard run in the Falcons rout of the Bucs, and scored a long TD in week one on a 54-yard pass. Despite all that success, he seems to be behind Steven Jackson, Jazquizz Rodgers, and Devonta Freeman for work. If he keeps breaking things out like this, though, that could start to change. The Falcons offense is a dynamic one, but they struggle for the same sizzle in the running game that they get with Julio Jones, Devin Hester, and Roddy White in the passing game. As the season goes on, it could be Antone Smith who brings that added option if Smith gets playing time.
For now, adding Smith is mostly a speculative play, but the other running backs have been underwhelming while he has been the best option. If Coach Mike Smith allows Antone to take a larger role, he’s a deep league stash that could pay off like Jerick McKinnon looks like he may be ready to do in Minnesota.