Sep 9, 2012
Trent Richardson will get the starting nod today against the Philadelphia Eagles, and is expected to receive the bulk of the carries. While rookie running backs who are less than 100% are not typically worth the risk, I like Richardson as a RB1 this week. With question marks surrounding Marshawn Lynch and a limited workload in store for Adrian Peterson and Maurice Jones-Drew, Richardson is my 8th ranked RB this week.
The physical style of the Alabama product should play favorably against a Eagles secondary that struggled making open field tackles last season, but if the Browns fall behind early, Richardson’s touches could suffer. It is reasonable to expect 15-20 touches, 80 yards, and a touchdown in his NFL debut. Getting off to a good start would be nice, but the Browns figure to play it safe with their projected franchise RB.
You drafted Richardson because you were buying his talent, and the fact that the Browns are starting him should give you enough confidence to start him as well.
