Michael Crabtree "running better than he ever has"

May 25, 2012

QB Alex Smith noted that WR Michael Crabtree might be the star of the 49ers' spring.

"He's healthy, and I think he's excited about that," Smith said. "I think he's feeling really good. You come out and watch and he's running better than he ever has since I've seen him. Running really well out here, making plays. It's exciting to see."

In the final 11 games of the regular season, Crabtree had 61 catches for 742 yards and four touchdowns, which would translate to 89 catches, 1,079 yards and six touchdowns over a 16-game season.

Fantasy Impact:

Crabtree may be emerging, but the 49ers are a run-first team (or at least they were in 2011) and they added Mario Manningham, Randy Moss and A.J. Jenkins this offseason. RB LaMichael James will also play a role in the passing game. Barring a big shift in offensive philosophy, which is not out of the realm of possibility given the team's additions, Crabtree's targets could actually decrease in 2012.

yesterday

Saints RB Alvin Kamara off injury report ahead of Week 15

Tom Pelissero

yesterday · 4:30 PM EST

The Saints officially listed QB Derek Carr (left hand/concussion) as doubtful for Sunday vs. Washington. Jake Haener will make his first NFL start.

RB Alvin Kamara (illness) is off the injury report and good to go.

Related Players: Kendre Miller

Fantasy Impact:

It would have been an easy click for a Kendre Miller week if Kamara were forced to miss, but this puts the kibosh on that. Fire Kamara up as an RB2 this week in a game that may feature him even more than usual with no Carr.

Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker Doubtful for Week 15

Ian Rapoport

yesterday · 4:28 PM EST

The Seahawks list RB Kenneth Walker III (calf) as doubtful for Sunday's game.

Related Players: Zach Charbonnet, Kenny McIntosh

Fantasy Impact:

Looks like a clear runway for another Charbonnet week in what should be a tightly contested game against the Packers at home. Fire him up as a fringe RB1/2.