Potential Replacements for Leon Washington on Your Fantasy Football Team

Matt Dickerson by Contributor Written on October 26, 2009
HOUSTON - SEPTEMBER 13: Leon Washington #29 of the New York Jets is tackled by Joel Dreesen #85 of the Houston Texans and Antwaun Molden #28 on a punt return at Reliant Stadium on September 13, 2009 in Houston, Texas.  (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

In this year's Fantasy Draft, I was so excited to grab Leon Washington.

I just knew that it would just be a matter of time before he would get his share of work. His explosiveness gave him the potential for pay dirt every touch.

All of that came to a drastic and sad end on Sunday versus the Oakland Raiders.

Leon will come back next year, but who can you pick up to replace him on your fantasy football team? 

Here are just a few to consider. Understand that I am going for guys that are largely not owned and have the potential to grow in fantasy value:

* Hakeem Nicks, WR, New York Giants

* Jamaal Charles, RB, Kansas City Chiefs

* Mike Wallace, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers

* Kevin Faulk, RB, New England Patriots

* Sam Aiken, WR, New England Patriots

* Justin Forsett, RB, Seattle Seahawks

* Ladell Betts, RB, Washington Redskins

Keep in mind that Washington only gave you about five to eight points per week but always had the potential to do more.

All the guys listed above, except Betts, should get you at least five points. However, they are in situations where if they continue to improve, they could be a big part of your success in the fantasy playoffs. 

Nicks is a must. If he is out there in your league, go grab him now. Same with Wallace. Aiken is getting time because of injuries and making the most of it. Doesn't hurt that he has Tom Brady to throw at him. Faulk is fighting Sammy Morris and Fred Taylor for carries with Laurence Maroney and BenJarvus Green-Ellis. 

Charles could be closer today after Larry Johnson tweeted about his coach. Todd Haley could release him sooner rather than latter. Betts is simply waiting for Clinton Portis' leg to finally give up the ghost. Washington is always a running team, and I think that if given the opportunity he would beat out Rock Cartwright.

Forsett should get a chance very soon to shine. Julius Jones laid an egg last game, and the coaching staff is rumored to be talking about giving Forsett a legitimate shot. They obviously don't trust Edgerrin James.

Good luck. Leon will be missed.

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written on October 26, 2009 Opinion

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