Ask any NFL head coach about what they value most in a running back and chances are they will utter the phrase, “ball security,†near the top of the list. It may seem mundane to us, but to coaches, turnovers are like a new Nickelback record: nauseating.
No matter how gifted you are athletically, if you consistently fumble the ball, you will end up spending a large portion of your Sundays holding your helmet on the sidelines (see Blount was one of the most efficient runners in the entire league last year.With Blount now calling Pittsburgh his home, the Patriots may be forced to rely on Ridley more in 2014.
The Ridley-Vereen Combo
Assuming NESN report that went so far as to question whether or not he could eventually supplant Vereen. His situation is certainly one to monitor in training camp, especially if you’re of the dynasty league persuasion.
Ridley in 2014
As with every decision we make regarding our fantasy football drafts, value is what we should ultimately be looking for. It’s not always about finding the most talented guy, but more often it’s finding talent that is being undervalued.
As of June 24th, Ridley is currently the 29th running back being selected in standard formats according to Fantasy Football Calculator. Ravens running back horrendous 2013 campaign and looming suspension heading into 2014.
In PPR leagues, Ridley is obviously less attractive because he simply hasn't been a factor in the passing game so far in his career. Factor in the return of Shane Vereen, and it doesn't seem likely that he will all of the sudden be peppered with targets.
But regardless of format, if you can get a possible 1,000-yard rusher with double-digit touchdown upside in the middle of the sixth round, you would be wise to jump at the opportunity. If he forces Belichick's hand by holding on to the rock, he could prove to be the middle-round selection that outperforms his average draft position and gives you an advantage on the rest of your competition. While Ridley will most likely never reach Adrian Peterson’s level, he can still provide value in 2014.