Fantasy Football Player Notes

Entering the league, Jeanty's receiving ability was questioned. After a year and four weeks in the NFL, it is clear that his receiving may not only be effective, but a strong suit of his. Sitting with only three fewer receptions than Jahmyr Gibbs on the season, he is third in receiving yards and tied for the league lead in receiving touchdowns at the position. Add this to 15+ carries a game, and we have the formula for a true fantasy RB1. Unfortunately, he has yet to score a rushing touchdown this season. If Jeanty were finding pay dirt more frequently, he would be in discussion for top five at the position. However, without the scores, he remains a low-end RB1. This week, they face the Patriots, who average well at stopping opposing fantasy RBs. It's only a matter of time until we see Jeanty find the endzone again this year; maybe this will be the week.

Mike Washington could draw the start if Ashton Jeanty can't go this week. If Jeanty is active, Washington still holds some flex value, as he could see double-digit touches to spell Jeanty more. If Jeanty is out, Washington would be a strong RB2 this week. He has averaged 6.3 touches and 29.7 total yards per game with two outings with at least 40 rushing yards. Among 47 qualifying backs, Washington is 16th in explosive run rate and second in yards after contact per attempt. Washington has a softer matchup this week. New England's run defense has allowed the 14th-highest rushing success rate, the 13th-most yards before contact per attempt, and the fourth-most yards after contact per attempt.