Falcons: Michael Turner Out, Jason Snelling In | NFL Fantasy Football Rankings

Let's face it, unless Michael Turner's ankle has a miraculous recovery this weekend, he will be out of action against the Giants . Turner's loss is a major blow to fantasy football owners that drafted him, as he was a top five selection on draft day.

With Turner out, the Falcons will turn to fullback—running back Jason Snelling to carry the load. Snelling filled in for Turner after he left the game last week against the Panthers .

Snelling carried the football 18 times, for 61 yards rushing, and a touchdown run against the Panthers. When you match his numbers against Turner's in the same game (nine carries for 111 yards), it is clear to see that Snelling isn't an explosive runner.

This running back's assets are his size and strength, which allows him to carry the football 20-plus times a game and get goal line work.

How Long Will Turner Be Out of Action?

The Falcons and Turner are refusing to put a timetable on when fantasy football owners can expect their stud running back in their lineups again. At this time, it looks like Turner will probably miss this week and next.

This is unfortunate, as we are in the final weeks of the regular season for fantasy, but at least it looks like he will be back for the playoffs. When you consider that some fantasy owners just lost Ronnie Brown for the season (hopefully you don't have both), this injury doesn't look so bad.

With Turner out and Jerious Norwood still limited in his return from a hip problem, Snelling will get plenty of work.

This week Snelling has a decent matchup against the Giants, but next week he has a gem against the Buccaneers . Assuming Turner or Norwood don't make miraculous recoveries and play next week, Snelling is a must start in that game.

Fantasy Football Outlook

If and when Turner can come back and play for the Falcons, it would be a good idea to hold onto Snelling, if he plays effectively. The Falcons won't use him as much as Turner, but if their star running back goes down to injury they would use him again.

Beyond that I would definitely get him in your lineups next week against the Buccaneers defense. That is a perfect game for a fantasy running back to give you solid production.

NFL Fantasy Football Player Rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com