Trent Richardson: Fantasy Owners Should Sit Star RB in Week 1

Trent Richardson has the potential to be one of the most talented running backs in the NFL, but he will not make a big impact in Week 1.

The Cleveland Browns received some good news this week about their rookie: According to CBS Sports, an inside source labeled Richardson as "ready to go" for the opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. He has been listed as questionable in the team's injury report and has been limited in practice, but this is very encouraging news for fans and fantasy owners.

Still, the team should be very cautious with the talented player. It was only a month ago that Richardson underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. And that was the second procedure on the same knee in six months.

Richardson has a tremendous amount of talent. Last season at Alabama, the running back was a Heisman finalist after rushing for 1,679 yards and 21 touchdowns in the stacked SEC. He has a rare combination of strength, speed and agility that you do not often see in a football player.

However, the Browns drafted him for the future, not one game. With a rookie quarterback behind center and a young defense, they have little chance of defeating the talented Eagles. In a long season and a longer career, the team will be better off limiting him. 

Even if the running back does play in Week 1, he will likely not get all of the carries for the team. Montario Hardesty and Brandon Jackson should get their fair share of touches as the coaching staff gets a chance to see what they have available on the roster.

In addition, rushing attempts will be difficult to come by for anyone in the backfield. The Eagles are listed as 9.5-point favorites according to Bovada, and it is likely that Cleveland will be behind for most of the game. Coach Pat Shurmur would love to ease Brandon Weeden into the NFL by limiting passes, but he will not have a choice if the Browns fall behind.

Starting a rookie in fantasy football is always a risky move in Week 1. Even if you are sure about a player's ability, his usage is often still a mystery. Combine this fact with an injury, and Trent Richardson is too risky of a player to be started in the opening week of the season.

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