Michael Bush: Complete Fantasy Profile and Draft Strategy

The worst thing that could have happened to Michael Bush's fantasy value was Matt Forte signing a new contract with the Chicago Bears. 

Even though Bush is now firmly entrenched in a backup role with the Bears, there are still a few reasons that he has good value for your fantasy team. 

As you sit down and fill out your draft card, we are going to profile what Bush can offer your team in 2012. 

Where Does Bush Rank?

He is a tricky player to figure out. You have to believe the Bears signed him to take some pressure off Forte, though no one knows exactly how many carries that means for Bush. 

If he is going to get 12-15 per game, he could be a top-30 fantasy back this year. Given how valuable Forte is to the Bears offense, it might be foolish to expect that for Bush. 

If you need a capable backup runner late, target Bush in the eighth round. He has been going 92nd overall in ESPN Fantasy Draft Leagues. 

Latest News

The Bears clearly have big plans for both of the big-name running backs on their roster. Offensive coordinator Mike Tice has reportedly told Bush that he is looking to have two 1,000-yard rushers in 2012. 

That is certainly music to the ears of fantasy owners, who view Bush as a potential late-round steal if he gets enough carries. 

Split Situation

Everyone knows who the starting running back is going to be for the Bears. Forte will get the lion's share of carries for the Bears, though it is not hard to envision a scenario where Bush does get 175-200 carries. 

Expect Forte to get 65-70 percent of the carries for the Bears in 2012, with Bush getting an overwhelming majority of the 30-35 percent that is left. 

Season Projections

Being a No. 2 back in the NFL doesn't mean what it used to. Teams love to use multi-back systems, which is good news for Bush. 

Expect a season with 170 carries, 700 yards and six touchdowns from Bush. 

Bears Bye Week: 6

RBs To Target Before Bush

Even though he could be a much better fantasy running back with a different team, Carolina's DeAngelo Williams should be slotted ahead of Bush even as he battles for carries with Jonathan Stewart. 

Other names to keep in mind ahead of Bush include Detroit's Kevin Smith and Buffalo's C.J. Spiller. 

RBs Bush Should Be Targeted Before

Even though Cedric Benson is probably going to be the starter in Green Bay, his tendency to put the ball on the ground and lack of a full training camp is worrisome. 

Other backups who will struggle to duplicate Bush's performance are Kansas City's Peyton Hillis and Pittsburgh's Isaac Redman. 

Conclusion

Even though he shouldn't be a starter every week anymore, Bush is a valuable addition to your fantasy roster. He could be very good at the goal line for the Bears since he is more powerful than Forte. 

Plus, Forte's carries have gone down each of the last three years. He had 316 in his rookie season, then 258, 237 and, due to the injury, 203 last year. Bush is going to have plenty of chances to make an impact. 

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