Fansided

32 breakout fantasy football players for the 2016-17 NFL season

By Andrew C. Lovell

May 6, 2016; Irving, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys number one draft pick Ezekiel Elliott (21) runs drills during rookie minicamp at Dallas Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
May 6, 2016; Irving, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys number one draft pick Ezekiel Elliott (21) runs drills during rookie minicamp at Dallas Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 20, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi (23) catches the ball prior to the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi (23) catches the ball prior to the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Miami Dolphins – RB Jay Ajayi

Ajayi is a hot name in fantasy circles, and for good reason. With Miller now serving as the top ball carrier in Houston, Ajayi is the top dog in Miami.

As a rookie, Ajayi saw limited action behind Miller, rushing for 187 yards and a touchdown on 49 carries. The Dolphins drafted former Alabama back Kenyan Drake in the third round of this year’s draft, but he’s expected to serve as a clear change-of-pace backup. The job is Ajayi’s to lose.

If we use Miller as a measuring point, Ajayi will certainly have value in his sophomore season with the Dolphins. Miller rushed for 1,099 yards and eight touchdowns in 2014, and 872 yards and eight touchdowns in 2015. He was also a factor through the air, catching 38 and 47 passes, respectively.

Ajayi was highly productive in college at Boise State, rushing for 1,823 yards and 28 touchdowns in his final season with the Broncos.

The Dolphins will have to lean on him more than they did Miller last season. Miami finished dead last in the NFL in rushing attempts with 344, a curious outcome considering the 6-10 Dolphins were involved in six games decided by a seven points or less.

Next: Minnesota Vikings

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