Le’Veon Bell to the Jets
Bell dropped his new album and announced in a song that he would join the gang green, ending months of speculation about his landing spot. The Jets’ offensive line isn’t exactly the Steelers’ offensive line, though. You’d think Bell would get the workhorse role, but Adam Gase is now the head coach. Gase was infamous for not using his best players due to personal riffs.
It happened with Jay Ajayi, who was traded to Philly. DeVante Parker lived in Gase’s doghouse and couldn’t escape. How can we forget how Kenyan Drake was utilized after his strong finish in 2017?
Bell signed a big money deal so that is cause for optimism but operating in a worse offense is a concern. Bell will be a top 10 running back but he’s not someone owners should actively target with higher upside players available later in fantasy drafts. In dynasty formats, see what people would offer for him and try to sell now.
Mark Ingram to the Ravens and Latavius Murray to the Saints
The Saints signed Latavius Murray to take Mark Ingram’s place as the bruiser to compliment Alvin Kamara. The Saints were unwilling to pay Ingram but signed Murray and spent more than he is worth. Sure, Murray is younger, has less tread on his tires and has a nose for the end zone. Ingram is the more talented of the two, but his age is the reason for his split from New Orleans. As for Murray, he’s a very interesting later-round running back to target. The Saints’ offense will be high flying as usual and Murray has an opportunity to produce as an RB2 in 2019.
The Ravens were apparently players in the Bell sweepstakes but after realizing they wouldn’t land him, they turned to Ingram. Lamar Jackson and the zone read will open up running lanes for Ingram. Greg Roman took over as offensive coordinator and will keep this offense very run heavy. Ingram is about as safe as it comes with upside to finish as a top 10 back.
The biggest concern is the Ravens’ receiving corps. When Willie Snead is your most established receiver, it’s time to worry. The Ravens will address the position in the draft but Jackson isn’t much of a passer thus far in his young career. Defenses will key in on Ingram but volume is king and Ingram is set up for success in 2019.
