After losing Rashaad Penny to an ACL tear two weeks ago, the unthinkable happened last Sunday when the Seahawks lost both Chris Carson to a hip injury and C.J. Prosise to a broken arm. The Seahawks entire backfield from Week 14 is now on injured reserve and they turn to two blasts from the past in Marshawn Lynch and Robert Turbin to join rookie Travis Homer against the 49ers. We break down the fantasy football implications below.
Fantasy football analysis, Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch
Marshawn Lynch is a legend in Seattle, but expectations must be tempered as we remember that Lynch has not seen the football field in well over a year. It is impossible to predict what kind of football shape he is in at the moment, and there will likely be a learning curve for an offense that has changed since he was last with the team. However, the nickname “Beast Mode” isn’t earned easily and the Seattle backfield is in dire straits. It isn’t crazy to think that Lynch may be called upon to punch in a TD on a goal line carry, or that he may have a big play or two while breaking through tackles as he has done in the past.
That being said, Pete Carroll has indicated that the team will lean on Travis Homer and noted that the young back is “ready to go.” Pete Carroll has been a man of his word in the past when endorsing his players, so there is no reason to believe this isn’t Homer’s backfield to lose at this point. Lynch should remain on your bench in standard leagues.
In terms of DFS, Lynch is valued at $4200 in Showdown Captain Mode this week. Should Homer struggle in the limelight, Lynch could be called upon to have a significant role and prove to be a significant value in these contests. He would only cost you $6300 as your captain. It’s certainly a gamble, but one that could pay off as it opens up significant salary space for other big stars in your line-up.
Fantasy football analysis, Seattle Seahawks running back Robert Turbin
Robert Turbin first joined the Seahawks in 2012, and now returns seven years later at the age of 30 to add depth at the position. Depth may be the only reason for adding Turbin, as he was never a standout, even in his prime. He only garnered a total of 27 carries in his last two years with the Colts and he has never topped the 354 yards that he had in his first season with the Colts. He should not be started in standard leagues, and would likely be a waste of your salary cap in DFS, even at the low price of $2200 in Showdown Captain Mode.
Start/Sit Advice:
Sit Marshawn Lynch in standard leagues
Play Lynch as a gamble with upside in Showdown Captain Mode
Sit Turbin in standard leagues and DFS tournaments