Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Washington Redskins running back Alfred Morris was unable to finish last Sunday’s game against the Oakland Raiders due to a rib injury, and Roy Helu filled in capably with 13 carries for 41 yards and a touchdown along with two receptions for 43 yards.
The Redskins have a bye in Week 5, which gives Morris a good chance to be ready to go for Week 6 against the Dallas Cowboys and beyond after being diagnosed with bruised ribs. Clarity on Morris’ status likely won’t come until next week, and Redskins’ head coach Mike Shanahan will surely keep everyone guessing for as long as he can. So should fantasy football owners consider adding Helu this week?
Helu only had one carry for five yards and five catches for 48 yards in the first three games of the season, so it’s unlikely he is on a roster in very many fantasy leagues right now. He entered 2012 as a potential fantasy sleeper on the heels of a productive rookie season in 2011 (640 rushing yards, 49 receptions for 379 yards), but a preseason Achilles’ issue opened the door for Morris to win the starting job and a turf toe issue ended his season after just three games.
Helu’s greatest value as a waiver wire addition is to Morris owners right now, who could be left without their top running back if there’s any question about his health heading toward Week 6. Helu is the more capable pass catcher of the two backs, so it’s possible he has a bigger role in that capacity even if Morris is able to suit up without issue coming out of Washington’s bye week.
Brad Berreman is a contributing writer at Rant Sports.com. Follow him on Twitter @bradberreman24.
