Joseph Randle's Updated 2014 Fantasy Outlook Heading into Week 16

During the coming out party of DeMarco Murray as one of the best running backs in the NFL this season, Joseph Randle has mostly remained off the radar for fantasy owners—until now.

The Dallas Cowboys lead back suffered a broken hand that required surgery earlier this week. However, he is still expected to play against the Indianapolis Colts following the injury. Stephen and Jerry Jones commented on the situation, via Jon Machota of The Dallas Morning News:

Even with Murray potentially still in the fold, Randle is set for his best week this season. A playoff spot isn't locked in after beating the Philadelphia Eagles, but risking the health of Murray would render making the postseason useless.

That makes Randle a great speculative pickup this week and possibly a starter at a flex spot. Murray's health will still certainly be worth watching for those who pick up Randle, but he should get a chance to shine against the Indianapolis Colts.

Along with the fact that he'll see an uptick in carries, Randle is also facing a porous rushing defense. Indianapolis ranks 16th in the league with 110.4 rushing yards allowed per game—tied with Dallas—but has given up 13 rushing touchdowns this season.

The Colts allow the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs with 20.52 per game. If Randle gets a share of the production, he has a shot at double-digit points, making him a good flex option for this Sunday.

While Lance Dunbar is another option, Randle looks like the better back this season. Michael Fabiano of NFL.com offered his take on the situation:

Those who pick up the backup for Dallas might also want to watch the situation with Murray closely. If his situation changes for the worst heading into Indy, it would instantly make Randle a strong start at potentially a RB2 spot.

John Paulsen of 4for4 Football noted where he would rank Randle this week if Murray misses time:

It's a little late in the season to start tweaking the lineup, but owners of Murray certainly need to handcuff him with Randle. In a championship scenario for some teams, adding a potential starting running back like Randle is a solid waiver-wire pickup.

All fantasy stats courtesy of NFL.com.

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