Beat: Pats will rotate their 'big back'

Nov 26, 2013

I think there are a few layers to consider when it comes to Stevan Ridley.

First, I'd be shocked if they released him. He is a good runner working through a ball-security issue, which is similar to what Kevin Faulk faced early in his Patriots career. We saw him overcome it, so I don't think we're at an end-of-the-road type situation with Ridley.

I'd expect to see more of a rotation with Ridley, LeGarrette Blount (also a ball-security risk) and Brandon Bolden in that big-back role. The Patriots are deep at the position with those three, plus Shane Vereen, so I don't see any personnel additions.

Fantasy Impact:

Beat writer Mike Reiss said the days of Ridley seeing half the snaps are likely over, at least for the short term. It's unfortunately because Ridley has run well before fumbling and getting benched. For at least this week, Ridley can't be trusted in your lineup in what is likely an important game with playoff implications. In fact, of all the NE backs, Vereen is probably the only safe play here - at least until we see how this week vs. Houston plays out.

today

Jaguars TE Evan Engram out for the remainder of the season

J.P. Shadrick

1 hour ago

TE Evan Engram out for the season. Surgery coming on labrum in shoulder.

Related Players: Brenton Strange, Luke Farrell, Josiah Deguara

Fantasy Impact:

Bummer for Engram, who will finish the season as the TE16 with 7.3 half-PPR PPG in nine weeks.

It's unlikely that Strange pops up as a TE streamer through the remainder of the season, with no more byes on the horizon.

yesterday

Chiefs WR Hollywood Brown's practice window to open "Friday or Monday"

Ian Rapoport

yesterday · 7:56 PM EST

Chiefs WR Hollywood Brown has received final clearance to practice, paving the way for him to play before the regular season ends.

Brown, who is recovering from surgery to repair his SC joint, should have his window opened Friday or Monday. The team will be cautious.

Fantasy Impact:

If Brown were cleared by Week 17, he would be incredibly tough to start in pretty much any sort of fantasy league with Championships on the line. However, he could be an interesting click for Playoff-only leagues if he can ramp up in time.

Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker misses second straight practice

Adam Schefter

yesterday · 7:53 PM EST

For a second straight day today, Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker III didn’t practice due to his calf injury.

Related Players: Zach Charbonnet, Kenny McIntosh

Fantasy Impact:

Looks like things should be cleared out for Charbonnet once again in what could be a very close game against the Packers. If Walker misses Week 15, fire Charbs up as a high-end RB2.