Sony Michel

Week 17 vs. New York Jets
Sony Michel has reclaimed his early-down role in the wake of Damien Harris's injury, but the Patriots continued offensive struggles have prevented him from doing much in that role and there is little reason to think that trend will suddenly change in Week 17. Michel has received 10 carries in back-to-back games and been efficient with those touches, but he continues to offer nothing in the passing game. On the rare occasion the Patriots get close to the end zone, Cam Newton monopolizes most of the goal line carries, limiting Michel's touchdown upside. While Michel's performance since his return has been promising, the situation does not dictate much fantasy upside in Week 17.

Week 3 vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Game script left Sony Michel behind in Week 2 as the Patriots had to air it out with Cam Newton to keep up with Russell Wilson and company in Seattle. Michel finished with 19 scoreless yards on seven carries, showing that his floor is rock bottom in any game where New England falls behind early in the game. Alvin Kamara diced up the Raiders in Week 2, but the vast majority of his damage came in the passing game, an area where Michel offers nothing. Michel's outlook is further dampened by Cam Newton's involvement at the goal line where his quarterback has already scored three touchdowns in two weeks. Michel always has some touchdown upside as New England's ealry-down grinder, but in the end he is a risky start in fantasy.

Week 1 vs. Miami Dolphins
Sony Michel looks poised to handle most of the early down rushing work for New England's running back committee in Week 1. This looks like a matchup where Michel can be started with some confidence given the projected positive game script and Damien Harris's absence. Michel should get enough volume to warrant starting as a middling flex, but his lack of involvement in the passing game always makes him a risky start. Start Michel if you must, and hope he falls into the endzone for a short touchdown at some point during the game.