The stunning announcement that Trent Richardson had been traded from Cleveland to the Colts immediately altered the fantasy landscape for both teams. He had been considered an indisputable RB1 throughout the entire draft process this summer, as he appeared to be in position to garner a mammoth number of touches within the offensive strategy that new HC Rob Chudzinski and OC Norv Turner would concoct. Yet, he currently is a mere 22nd in rushing yardage, having manufactured just 105 on 31 attempts (3.4 YPC). The disappointment that resulted from that yardage total was accentuated by the fact that he had also failed to score. However, his owners should now benefit from Richardson’s migration to Indy, since Andrew Luck and the Colt offense possess more firepower. The increased threat of a passing game should help Richardson, as should his new team’s ability to extend their drives. That in turn, should lead to more goal line touches, and a more fantasy points for his owners.
Meanwhile, his presence has essentially eliminated the fantasy value of Ahmad Bradshaw, who can be dropped immediately. This is not particularly good news for owners who had originally selected the former Giant, in hopes that he could provide favorable numbers for their teams. He had accumulated 91 yards on 22 carries in his first two games (4.1 YPC), although he did generate a TD in Week 2. Richardson would not be a Colt if Bradshaw was perceived to have any sustainable value by his team’s decision makers, and he is suddenly a non-entity from a fantasy standpoint.
Conversely, a collective sprint to peruse league waiver wires almost immediately occurred, as owners scrambled to seize Willis McGahee. This after the news that he was expected to join Cleveland. It is certainly recommended that you add him, if you happen to reside in a league in which he remains available. If McGahee can remain healthy, then he can manufacture a certain degree of success. But temper your expectations if you do add him. First, he still needs to pass a physical before he will join the Browns. He also managed just 731 yards and four touchdowns in nine starts with Denver in 2012, before his season concluded prematurely due to a leg injury. He will turn 32 next month. And, he will be performing within an offense that possesses deficiencies.
As we continue to digest this surprising turn of events for all three RBs, Richardson owners should be thrilled with his new opportunity. Bradshaw owners should dump him immediately. And anyone who can add McGahee should do so. And hope that he is able to reward your investment.
