Latavius Murray signed with the Minnesota Vikings in the offseason as the presumed starter, only to lose the job to rookie Dalvin Cook as he recovered from ankle surgery. Murray saw more playing time when Cook tore his ACL, though he’s mostly been in an even committee with Jerick McKinnon, grinding between the tackles on early downs.
Fantasy football start/sit advice: What to do with Latavius Murray
Murray forced his way into a committee with Jerick McKinnon. We break down the fantasy implications.
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In other words, fantasy owners didn’t have much reason to consider Murray, at least until his Week 7 blowup. He took 18 carries for 113 rushing yards, including huge runs late that helped seal the Vikings’ win over the Baltimore Ravens.
Fantasy impact: McKinnon still got 17 touches, so he still has an important role in the offense, and Murray’s lack of use in the passing game significantly lowers his ceiling, especially in PPR formats. He’s getting carries, but before last week hasn’t done anything with them. Volume is his one calling card with the Vikings doubling down on ground-and-pound this season.
Fantasy players should use a wait-and-see approach before inserting Murray into lineups, lest they risk chasing stats. The Cleveland Browns are a mess at 0-7, but their defense is giving up the 27th-fewest fantasy points to running backs.
Recommendation: Start if you’re desperate
