Fantasy Football Week 7 Sleeper Options: Rams' Running Back Situation Raises Questions
ICARO Media Group
In Week 7 of fantasy football, managers are facing the challenge of navigating the uncertain situation at the running back position for the Los Angeles Rams. With both Kyren Williams and Ronnie Rivers sidelined due to injuries, the Rams' backfield is in flux, leaving fantasy managers searching for viable options.
Williams is expected to miss the next three games, while Rivers has already been placed on injured reserve. This leaves the Rams with a significant void to fill, but head coach Sean McVay is keeping his plans under wraps. When asked about the running back rotation for the upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, McVay remained tight-lipped, stating that he has a sense of the rotation but would not disclose any further details.
The potential candidates to replace Williams include Zach Evans, Royce Freeman, Darrell Henderson, and Myles Gaskin. During practice drills, the running backs have been ordered as Freeman, Evans, Henderson, and Gaskin, according to The Athletic. However, the situation remains unclear, and fantasy managers may be wise to avoid the Rams' backfield if possible.
Of the group, Evans, a sixth-round rookie from Ole Miss, is a compelling option. While he has limited experience with only four carries for 10 yards in his rookie campaign, his potential for a larger role is intriguing. However, McVay's trust in the young rookie remains uncertain.
Freeman, who has spent time on and off the Rams' practice squad this season, has primarily played on special teams. His most productive year came in 2019 when he averaged 8.9 PPR points per game with the Denver Broncos. While Freeman may receive a majority of touches, he is not expected to generate much excitement among fantasy managers.
Henderson, who began his career with the Rams, had a career-best season in 2021, averaging 13.1 PPR points per game. However, he fell out of favor with McVay last season, leading to his release. Henderson's familiarity with the Rams' offense could work in his favor, but his role remains uncertain.
Gaskin, who recently spent time with the Minnesota Vikings, is not expected to have a significant role with the Rams. Nonetheless, his understanding of the offensive terminology from his time under head coach Kevin O'Connell may mitigate the learning curve.
With the lack of clarity surrounding the Rams' running back situation, fantasy managers may want to approach Week 7 with caution. Evans holds the most potential as a flex option in all leagues, followed by Freeman and Henderson as desperation plays. Gaskin is not expected to make a significant impact.
Nevertheless, the situation could present an opportunity for a breakout performance. Williams has excelled this season, averaging at least 17.4 PPR points in four of the six games. Additionally, the matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers appears favorable, as they have allowed opposing running backs to score double-digit PPR points in all five games this year.
As Sunday approaches, fantasy managers hope for clarity on the lead running back for the Rams. Whether it's Evans, Freeman, or Henderson, a clear lead option could provide a valuable flex option for fantasy lineups.
In addition to the Rams' running back situation, there are other sleeper options to consider in Week 7. Fantasy managers are eager for these players to deliver exceptional performances and provide a significant boost to their lineups. For those looking for DFS plays, million-dollar contest tournament lineups for both DraftKings and FanDuel can be found over at SportsLine.
Stay tuned for updates as the fantasy football season progresses, and may the sleepers come through to help secure victory in Week 7.