BenJarvus Green-Ellis' Injury Will Result in Limited Touches for Patriots RB

BenJarvus Green-Ellis' toe injury shouldn't keep him from starting today for New England, but it will likely limit his touches. Green Ellis is part of a crowded Patriots backfield, and his teammates are likely to pick up some of his carries this week.

Previous Workload

Green Ellis led the Patriots with 77 carries, 333 yards and five touchdowns. His number of carries is greater than the combined number of carries for his backups.

Danny Woodhead has 26 carries and Stevan Ridley has 25.

Expected Workload

I expect Ridley to benefit the most from Green-Ellis' toe. Woodhead is battling an injury of his own and was also listed as questionable. He will remain in his familiar role.

Ridley, however, is not injured, and his role has grown as the season has progressed. Ridley has produced every time he has been given the chance.

This will be an excellent time to give him an extended look against a very good run defense.

Fantasy Outlook

This is a key game for fantasy purposes. If Ridley can step up with a big day he can go a long way to increasing his role on this team. That would turn him into a legitimate RB option in fantasy leagues going forward, and it would severely limit the potential impact of Green-Ellis.

If Ridley remains an afterthought, or fails to produce, his production will likely be too sporadic going forward to warrant a fantasy start.