The best fantasy football running backs, No. 9: LeSean McCoy
It’s seemingly in vogue to knock McCoy’s RB1 prospects this season, a tendency likely driven by his perceived fragility. McCoy played in 12 games last season, marking the fourth time in his seven years he failed to appear in all 16 games. He did, however, play all 16 in 2013 and 2014, and missed just one game in 2010 and 2011. McCoy’s owners might hold their collective breath every time he takes the field, but his per-game production has never been in question. He has been a top-12 back by points per game in all but two of his seasons, and one of those he fell short was his rookie year. Last season, McCoy was 17th in total points despite missing four games, and seventh in points per game among backs who played at least eight games. Just like Martin, McCoy is playing with an ascending quarterback in Tyrod Taylor, and if Sammy Watkins is over his foot injury by Week 1, the Bills are going to score some points. Remember, this team was 13th in total yards and 12th in points last season. Put McCoy in an offense like that, and you rarely come up with anything other than an RB1.
