Darren McFadden Will Be Raiders’ Goal-Line Back: Fantasy Implications

Running back Darren McFadden will handle short yardage and goal-line work for the Oakland Raiders this season, according to Vic Tafur of the San Francisco Chronicle. Raiders offensive coordinator Greg Napp says he has always favors using the No. 1 back as the goal-line back. Napp's statement comes fresh off the heals of Raiders coach Dennis Allen saying the team 'won't baby McFadden.'

Analysis: The stars are aligning for Darren McFadden to be a dominant fantasy performer this season. The departure of Michael Bush gives McFadden sole possession of the Raiders' backfield, and the former Arkansas running back has looked incredible in preseason action. Injuries are always the biggest risk when talking about McFadden, but it's a good sign that the team isn't going to be afraid to let him loose. A fair amount of luck goes into injuries, so fantasy owners will have to cross their fingers if they make McFadden their first round pick this season. The risk is high, but the reward is through the roof if he stays healthy.