Karlos Williams' Fantasy Outlook After LeSean McCoy Injury

The Buffalo Bills appear to have gotten a steal in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL draft after selecting running back Karlos Williams, who has fared well in his first exposure to the NFL while star ball-carrier LeSean McCoy has struggled.

McCoy's nagging hamstring injury that persisted through the preseason is likely to keep him out of Sunday's Week 4 game against the New York Giants, per NFL Network's Rand Getlin. That means Williams is in line to be Buffalo's backfield workhorse, which sends his fantasy value through the roof.

It's obvious the hamstring is bothering McCoy and significantly impacting his production. Shady is averaging 3.4 yards per carry and has one receiving touchdown. On the other hand, Williams has racked up 7.8 yards per tote and already has three rushing TDs.

In light of that form, Williams may have an extended stay as the featured back, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter:

Bills head coach Rex Ryan has always been an advocate for a ground-and-pound offense. Ryan has the ideal offensive coordinator in Greg Roman to execute that philosophy, and Williams is a massive downhill runner who serves as a prototype for the system.

There is reason to believe Williams' production isn't an aberration. He has deceptive speed to go with a 6'1", 230-pound frame and is a product of a pro-style offense at Florida State. NFL.com's Matt Harmon believes in Williams' fantasy potential:

Dual-threat quarterback Tyrod Taylor throws well enough to keep defenses honest, so Williams ought to have ample running lanes no matter the opponent. Standout receiver Sammy Watkins is reportedly dealing with a mild calf sprain, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

That means the team should be more focused on running the ball. Ryan spoke about potentially resting Watkins until he's fully fit as well.

"I loved coming here because I knew he was on the team, but golly let's get him healthy and get him to where he can be Sammy Watkins," Ryan said Sunday, per Tyler Dunne of the Buffalo News.

The Bills will take on a Giants team in Week 4 that ranks second in the NFL against the run but last against the pass. Teams have lit up New York's secondary to the point where the Giants have to adjust, especially with how well Taylor is playing for Buffalo under center during a 2-1 start to the season.

Williams is a big back who will get carries in the scoring zone and likely cash in at least once in Week 4. He's averaging one touchdown per contest as is, with 12 carries, 110 yards and a TD this past Sunday in a victory over Miami.

In standard fantasy formats, Williams should be viewed as an RB2. The 22-year-old is worth a flex flier in daily fantasy, or even a running back slot, since his market value is currently at $3,400 on DraftKings.