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The position of running back in the NFL will take over the vast majority of the picks in rounds one and two during 2013 fantasy football drafts.
The ball-carrier position is responsible for a good-sized chunk of your total fantasy points each week, especially if you are not in a PPR league. Careful research and consideration goes into one’s decision of who to draft.
Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte has made a major impact on fantasy teams the past few seasons. Forte, along with every player at his position, has positives and negatives regarding production.
With the Bears under a new coaching staff, what should we expect to see from Forte in the 2013 season?
The biggest asterisk planted on Forte has been his ability to punch the ball into the end zone. When faced with a goal-to-go situation, he has been one of the worst in the NFL over the past five years, which has really hurt his fantasy owners. Backup veteran running back Michael Bush got the call and Forte was forced to watch from the sideline as Bush danced in the end zone five times on 11 goal-to-go carries last season.
After last season, the Bears sent Lovie Smith on his way out the door and brought in new head coach Marc Trestman. Many remember Trestman as the offensive coordinator for the Oakland Raiders where he relied heavily on his running back Charlie Garner.
This is only good news for fantasy owners looking to draft Forte as Trestman will most likely rely on him for the vast majority of touches. Trestman may want to test the waters for himself on getting the ball into Forte’s hands near the goal line or might even have a few new wrinkles in the offense in getting Forte his touchdowns.
PPR leagues have brought great numbers to Forte as he has proven to be a quality pass catcher with receiver-like abilities. Now under Trestman, the Tulane product may even see greater numbers in the receiving column.
With the Raiders and Garner, Trestman was able to throw the ball into Garner’s hands 91 times in a single season. As far as PPR leagues go, Forte would be a massive boost if he can average six points per game just off of receptions.
Forte has unbelievable potential for the 2013 season and will not disappoint any fantasy owner who drafts him. Currently, No. 22 is ranked as the 11th best running back to take and 23rd overall out of all players. Don’t be shy in drafting him during the second round, especially if you are in a PPR league.
Tristen Challe is a Fantasy Writer for Rantsports. Follow him on Twitter @TristenChalle
