Latavius Murray 2018 Outlook: High-End Handcuff That Shouldn't Be Ignored
6 years agoVikings running back Latavius Murray got off to a slow start in 2017, but benefited from an unfortunate Dalvin Cook injury to claim a large share of the rushing attempts in Minnesota. Between Weeks 7-16, Murray averaged 4.26 yards per carry and scored eight times on the ground. His success culminated in a 111-yard, two-TD performance in the final game of the season, helping some fantasy owners to a championship.
While battery mate Jerick McKinnon has moved on to San Fran, Cook is back to claim the lion's share of carries, relegating Murray to backup and change-of-pace status. Given the nature of Cook's injury and the fact Murray has nobody else behind him, he should be considered a high-end handcuff that could pay off big if Cook is reinjured. He won't have much standalone value, but in leagues with deeper benches, Murray could be a smart stash even if you aren't a Cook owner. In best-ball leagues, he should be owned almost universally.