LeGarrette Blount, Brandon Bolden's Fantasy Outlook After Dion Lewis' Injury

New England Patriots breakout star and running back Dion Lewis had to leave Sunday's game with a non-contact knee injury and was ruled out for the duration of the game against Washington, per the team. With the possibility that Lewis suffered an injury that will keep him sidelined for a lengthy duration, fantasy owners will now be asking how valuable LeGarrette Blount and Brandon Bolden will be going forward. 

Blount's value likely won't change too much, since he and Lewis played completely different roles on offense. Whereas the Pats have used Blount as the between-the-tackles and short-yardage back, Lewis has mostly served as a scatback and weapon in the passing game. 

Yes, the Patriots might lean on Blount even more heavily with Lewis sidelined, but Blount was already an RB2 consideration and a flex option each week at worst. That won't change. 

Player	Carries	Yards	Receptions	Yards	TD	Fantasy Points
LeGarrette Blount	29	129	0	0	1	18
Brandon Bolden	1	12	3	27	1	9

The question will be whether Brandon Bolden or James White absorbs the fantasy value that Lewis possessed. On Sunday, it appeared that Bolden would be that guy, as he caught a touchdown pass from Tom Brady. But White was inactive Sunday and has received playing time this season as well, which makes it tough to recommend either player. 

Fantasy owners should monitor Lewis' status carefully, as well as any reports regarding Bolden and White. One of them will inherit Lewis' role if he remains out, but the Patriots backfield is notoriously difficult to predict, so either could emerge with a bigger role. Neither is as explosive as Lewis, however, so the player who assumes the larger role will only be a flex consideration at best.