Fantasy Fallout: Seahawks Running Back Marshawn Lynch Out Vs. Lions

The Seattle Seahawks downgraded starting running back Marshawn Lynch to out for Monday’s game against the Detroit Lions.

The announcement likely leaves Lynch’s fantasy football owners scrambling for a replacement running back, especially given the game is on Monday night.

Rookie Thomas Rawls is expected to start in Lynch’s stead. Rawls replaced Lynch in Week 3’s 26-0 win over the Chicago Bears, gaining 104 yards on just 16 carries. Those looking for a fill-in should turn to Rawls first against a Lions porous run defense that has allowed the second-most rushing touchdowns (five) this season.

Those desperate could turn to Fred Jackson, who should serve as Rawls’ primary backup and likely in a third down role as well. Jackson has five receptions on the year and caught a touchdown pass in Week 2. While he’s far from a sure thing, he could provide a few savior points in PPR formats.

A more viable option than Jackson, though, could be on the other side of the ball in Theo Riddick. The Lions’ change-of-pace back has 15 receptions through three games and had his best game of the season in Week 3: eight catches for 66 yards. He also caught a touchdown for Detroit in Week 1.

Rawls, Jackson and Riddick all are cheap options in daily fantasy sports as well, going for $3,000 each in DraftKings leagues.

Thumbnail photo via Ray Carlin/USA TODAY Sports Images