2015 Fantasy Football: Last Minute Sleepers
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Running Back:
Lamar Miller, Dolphins (15th RB, 4th round) – The Dolphins have been trying to find a RB to pair with Miller the last few seasons, but Miller has been the superior back every year. It sounds like the Dolphins are finally ready to give him a chance to be a lead back and with Eagles disciple Bill Lazor calling the plays, there should be plenty of touches for Miller in a fast-paced offense. Miller averaged an impressive 5.1 YPC last season and found the end zone 8 times despite just over 200 carries. The Dolphins should be vastly improved in the 2nd year under Lazor and I expect Miller to reap most of the fantasy rewards.
Carlos Hyde, 49ers (18th RB, 5th round) – The 49ers hate has probably gone too far. Their offseason has been brutal but Hyde was an early 2nd round draft pick last year with a rare mix of power and speed who shouldn’t be dropping this far in drafts. He showed flashes of elite talent last year and like most power backs should get better with more carries. Hyde averaged a solid 4.0 YPC, but should be the bell-cow back on a team that struggles to throw the ball. The Niners will still be a run-first team this season and getting a RB who should average 20+ carries a game in the 5th round is a steal. If he stays healthy, Hyde could be a top 10 fantasy RB this season.
Chris Ivory Jets (28th RB, 10th round) – For a RB who has averaged 4.7 YPC over his five year career and is finally getting a chance to be the lead back, there is surprisingly little buzz. I know the Jets’ offense has been bad the last few seasons, but believe it or not the switch to Ryan Fitzpatrick is a significant upgrade fantasy wise for all Jets. Ivory somehow managed to average 4.1 YPC last year despite facing eight men in the box on most plays, but Fitzpatrick will at least give defenses the threat of a pass which should open up some lanes for Ivory. The Jets O-line is decent and Ivory is a better receiver than he’s had the chance to show. If he’s given 20+ touches per game, Ivory could finish among the top 15 RBs easily.