Christine Michael Fantasy Value After Reports of Starting Soon

(Getty)

(Getty)

The Dallas Cowboys are already using their upcoming bye week to install a new quarterback and new left guard. And the struggling offense may also add new running back to that list.

ESPN’s Ed Werder first had the report that recently acquired Christine Michael could soon supplant Joseph Randle as the starter:

NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport added more information:

Whether or not Michael starts, he’s clearly going to see a bigger workload after playing a total of two snaps the first five weeks. Combine Michael’s skill set (he’s a 5-foot-10, 221-pound athletic specimen with rare physical gifts) with the fact Randle has done nothing to secure the starting job (3.9 yards per carry), and it’s not hard to imagine C-Mike taking over in Dallas.

For that potential alone–double-digit carries behind a strong offensive line–he’s worth stashing in all 12- and 14-team leagues.

However, it’s important not to go overboard here. First, it’s a crowded backfield. Not only does he have to fight Randle for carries, but Darren McFadden has pretty much taken over the passing-down role. Second, Michael’s talent has yet to surface. He underwhelmed during his years in Seattle, and he has been slow getting acclimated in Dallas.

While his potential is undoubtedly alluring, it’s not a guarantee he suddenly clicks the on-button in Week 7. If you’re in a 10-team league or are deep at running back, it’s best to play the wait-and-see approach with Michael.