Fantasy Football Week 13 Must Start: David Johnson

David Johnson should be your RB2 or Flex for Week 13.

David Johnson of the Arizona Cardinals just earned the starting job in the desert. No, not Chris Johnson. He is more likely than not done for the year with a fractured tibia. There is a chance that he could return from injured reserve if the Cardinals make the Super Bowl, but that is a big if. Anyway, David Johnson is the new starter in Arizona, and he should be in your starting lineup for Week 13.

Johnson leads all rookie running backs and wide receivers with eight total touchdowns. He has four rushing touchdowns, three receiving touchdowns and one return score, and those stats scream fantasy stud. A running back who can catch passes out of the backfield is worth his weight in gold. The running backs who have the most fantasy points are the backs who can catch passes from their quarterback.

Le’Veon Bell, Devonta Freeman and Dion Lewis were well on their way to dominating the running back position this season. Bell and Lewis each suffered season-ending injuries, while Freeman missed Week 12 with a concussion but looks to play in his Week 13 game. Each of these feature backs catch passes out of the backfield with great success. Johnson could be on the same path as the previously mentioned running backs.

I do not wish injury on anybody, but preparing for an injury is smart. David Johnson is a candidate to suffer an injury. Not only is he a rookie running back, but Johnson is a small scat back. Also, Johnson is about to come into a new and bigger workload, and these things do not bode well for his durability.

With all of this said, a fantasy owner who wants to make an elongated run through the playoffs is required to take a risk. The upside of starting Johnson is 15 fantasy points. He will receive a ton of touches in a highly efficient offense. There is a chance that Johnson will not flourish in his new role, as sometimes guys enjoy smaller roles. This is a chance owners will need to be willing to take. If you own him, start Johnson with a decent level of confidence. If he is still available in your league, add Johnson and start him.