Jason Snelling: Atlanta Falcons Fantasy Update

Look out Jerious Norwood, but you might have just lost your job. For a few weeks, at least.

Norwood, the Falcons' regular third down back, will miss this week's contest for sure, and possibly be out longer with a hip injury. Don't believe it? NFL&id=4287" title="Ask Norwood yourself" target="_blank">Ask Norwood yourself .

Norwood's exit, for however long it may be, instantly gives Jason Snelling some decent fantasy value, as he takes over as Michael Turner's main backup, and will assume third down duties.

Snelling only has 12 carries for 54 yards and 10 catches for 90 yards and a touchdown, but his solid yards per touch (6.5) leaves room for plenty of optimism if he gets even close to the amount of touches Norwood is accustomed to.

Plain and simple: Norwood was averaging roughly seven touches per game in the four games he's played in this season. But with Snelling retaining his usual average of four touches per game in addition to his new role, he could potentially be a fantasy factor.

Everyone knows the top dog in Atlanta is Michael Turner, but with a beatable matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, Snelling should get enough opportunities to make him worth taking a chance on as a Flex play.

Verdict

Let's not be foolish about this. Snelling probably isn't going to gain 100 total yards or score more than once in a game anytime soon, but in deep leagues, he might be a heck of a pick up.

And if you're really desperate, you may have just found a fairly solid bye-week fill-in at a Flex position.