Indianapolis Colts running back Trent Richardson has lost his spot atop the depth chart to Donald Brown, according to NFL Network's Mike Silver.
Trent Richardson benched in favor of Donald Brown, fantasy value hits rock bottom
Donald Brown will now be the primary running back in Indianapolis as the Colts have decided to further limit the role of the ineffective Trent Richardson. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Given the production of both running backs over several weeks, it was an inevitable move for the coaching staff to make despite the heavy investment in Richardson. The Colts are a team in contention that can no longer afford to give reps to Richardson, who is averaging just 2.8 yards per carry since having a first-round pick exchanged for him earlier in the season. Brown will now be the primary back, a role he has earned after averaging 5.7 yards per carry and having success during games when his role had been expanded.
Fantasy Spin: Perhaps what prompted Colts brass to finally make this move is the fact that Brown's best game of the season came versus this week's opponent in the Tennessee Titans. During their last meeting in Week 11, Brown totaled 94 yards and two touchdowns on 15 touches while Richardson posted a familiar eight carries for 22 yards.
Brown can be trusted as a solid flex option this week while Richardson has done nothing to warrant lineup consideration either now or in the near future. Dynasty owners should still hold Richardson, as NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the team has not given up hope on his long-term prospects.
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