Fantasy Football: Ranking the top rookie running backs
By Jon Dove
7. Sony Michel, New England Patriots
Bill Belichick is a nightmare when it comes to fantasy football and the running back position. His close-to-the-vest approach and unpredictability makes it nearly impossible to get a pulse on his thought process.
Obviously, this is why he is such a successful coach. That doesn’t mean much to us fantasy owners who need to put together starting lineups.
Sony Michel has the talent to be an every-down back and big-time fantasy option. He’s someone who shows big-play ability as both a runner and pass catcher. However, his touches will be unpredictable in New England.
Michel is also now dealing with a knee issue that will keep him out for the rest of training camp. This is a bigger concern than his role in the offense. His career at Georgia was often hindered by injuries.
There’s a reasonable case to be made that Michel is someone who will struggle staying on the field.
The combination of Belichick and Michel’s injury history has me lower the most on this rookie. In fact, I plan to stay away from Michel and will let someone else assume the risk. Things can change mid-draft but I anticipate Michel will be pick earlier than I’m comfortable.