May 20, 2019

New England Patriots running back Sony Michel was a surprise first-round selection in 2018, as the team is known for rotating RBs and treating them as disposable commodities. With a high draft investment, it seemed as if Michel might become a focal point of the offense. After a slow start due to limited training camp, Michel indeed carried the ball 25, 18, and 24 times between Weeks 4-6 and averaged 105.3 yards with four touchdowns in those games. He was then bitten by the injury bug again, missing a couple of games before resuming his role as the RB1. He wasn't quite as effective upon return, averaging 72.7 yards and scoring twice in the final seven games. His lack of involvement as a pass-catcher (seven receptions all year) limited his appeal in PPR leagues as well. Then the playoffs came and Michel was utterly dominant, racking up 336 yards and scoring six TD in three games en route to another New England Super Bowl victory. Michel was inconsistent but also flashed superior talent and remains on one of the best offenses in the NFL. While his floor isn't as safe as many other backs who play on third downs, Michel is at least a top-20 RB everywhere and can be moved higher in standard-scoring formats. The addition of Damien Harris might concern some but he shouldn't eat into early-down touches, but rather serve as a long-term replacement for Rex Burkhead. If Michel can keep seeing 20+ touches per game, his upside is that of a low-end fantasy RB1. He is best targeted in the fourth round but an argument can be made for him as a third-round value for those skeptical of backs like Damien Williams and Derrick Henry.--Pierre Camus