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