Fantasy Football Profile: Maurice-Jones Drew

Maurice Jones-Drew finally gets a chance to prove that he can be an NFL feature back.  Given what he’s done in a somewhat limited role, the fantasy world is salivating at the thought of what he could do in an expanded role. 

Naturally there is some risk in taking a player who has never had 200 carries in a season, but that can be viewed as a plus since he hasn’t put on a lot of mileage.  Despite his 5′7″ stature, he is quite durable.  That’s because he packs 208 pounds of muscle on that frame.  He is a bowling ball with great moves and quickness. 

What’s more impressive is his nose for the end zone.  Mojo has 40 TDs (34 rushing, 4 receiving, 2 return) in his three years.  He also is extremely gifted at catching the ball out of the backfield.  He has had 40+ receptions every year, including a career-high 62 last year.  He should benefit greatly from a healthy offensive line, which was the main reason behind Jacksonville’s disappointing 2008 season.

This year, Jacksonville has some nice matchups agaist Arizona in Week 2, St. Louis in Week 6, Kansas City in Week 9, and Cleveland in Week 17 (which doesn’t help most fantasy owners).  His fantasy playoff schedule consists of Miami, Indianapolis, and New England, which is less than desirable.  Of course a RB with MJD’s versatility has the ability to produce against anyone.

Mo-Jo will likely go in the top three picks in most league, perhaps No. 1 overall in PPR leagues.  I fully expect him to meet his lofty expectations.  I’m putting him on 2000 total yards with 14 total TDs.

Article originally published at LestersLegends.com.