DeMarco Murray: Fantasy Owners Must Have Faith in Injured Cowboys RB

DeMarco Murray missed the Dallas Cowboys Week 7 contest against the Carolina Panthers, and the latest reports (via NFL.com) suggest the star RB will be sidelined in Week 8 vs. the New York Giants as well.

The back is reportedly suffering from a sprained foot. That is an injury you do not want a key player to be dealing with, as recovery can often be touch and go for a few weeks. Look no further than Pierre Garcon’s on-and-off performances since he sprained his foot in Week 1 for evidence of that.

While this isn’t great news, Murray’s injury must not dishearten fantasy owners.

As long as the back can return in time for the fantasy playoffs, he’s going to be an asset and could easily help your team win the championship. Before going down, Murray compiled 330 yards and a TD on 75 carries, while also being a valuable asset in PPR leagues with 17 receptions for 118 yards. 

Aside from a tough showdown with Pittsburgh in Week 15, the Cowboys have a relatively soft schedule to end the season—right when the fantasy playoffs and championship are taking place. The ‘Boys square off against the New Orleans Saints at home in Week 16 and close the season with a game on the road against the Washington Redskins.

Having a rested and healthy Murray on the field for those three games would be worth the cost of his early draft pick alone. He’s got the ability to absolutely tear teams up when he’s 100 percent, and the Cowboys will likely be fighting tooth and nail for a postseason spot.

Felix Jones, Phillip Tanner and the rest of the Dallas rushers can shoulder the load on the field while DeMarco is out for their squad. As a fantasy owner, you can look toward Rashad Jennings, LaRod Stephens-Howling or any number of solid waiver wire guys to pick up the slack in his absence for your team.

All you need to do is make the postseason and hope DeMarco Murray is back and healthy—a likely proposition.  He’s got the ability to lead you to greatness. Don’t give up on the second-year back any time soon.