Fantasy Football: 3 Things We Learned From Week 15

Dion Lewis Is Back, but Beware

Dion Lewis was another running back who had a big 2015 season (prior to his season-ending ACL tear) and has been virtually absent all season. After being a hot early- to mid-round pickup among early drafters, Lewis suffered a setback in his ACL recovery that required a second knee surgery, landing him on the PUP list until Week 11.

In his four games back prior to Week 15, Lewis failed to garner more than six carries and/or four receptions in a single game. But against the Denver Broncos, Lewis got the lion's share of work out of the New England Patriots' backfield, garnering 18 carries for 95 yards to go with 2 catches for 9 yards.

The Broncos game may have set up perfectly for Lewis, whereas next week's game, against the New York Jets, may not. First, it's worth noting that Denver, despite having the overall best defense in the league, rank 27th against the rush, per our numbers. So the matchup for Lewis was good.

New York ranks eighth against the run, so it wouldn't be surprising if the Patriots emphasized the pass more. If that's the case, it'll be tough to depend on Lewis because despite his reputation as a great pass-catcher, he still hasn't out-targeted fellow Patriots running back James White in a game since returning.

Moreover, if the Patriots build up a big lead early, which seems likely, there's no way to know whether Bill Belichick will facilitate the run game through LeGarrette Blount or Lewis. Blount still got 17 carries on Sunday, including 12 in the 2nd-half to Lewis' 7.

While it'll be tempting to throw Lewis in your lineup after his big Week 15, he's still going to be tough to trust in Week 15. Consider safer options if they're available.