4 Rookie Running Backs to Draft in Fantasy Football This Year

Ameer Abdullah, Detroit Lions

NFL Draft Selection: 2nd Round, 54th Overall
ADP (Std/PPR): 65/62

The Lions' Ameer Abdullah has a prime opportunity as a rookie to infuse some life into the Detroit offense.

The former Nebraska Cornhusker enters training camp as the default starter due to Joique Bell beginning camp on the PUP List. Pass-catching specialist and dynamic runner Reggie Bush is now in San Francisco, leaving the door wide open for Abdullah to carve out a big role as a rookie.

Looking back at the Lions offense over the past few seasons, it's obvious that the "Reggie Bush role" is actually the coveted role in fantasy. The misconception is that role is strictly a pass-catching one.

In 2013, when Bush was healthy, he ran the ball 223 times for over 1,000 yards, and saw 80 targets out of the backfield in 14 games. Bell played all 16 games and ran the ball just 166 times.

Last season, Bush was limited to 11 games due to injury, so his numbers are a little skewed. But given the volume in that passing offense, Abdullah could really do some work.

Last season at Nebraska, Abdullah averaged 6.1 yards per rush and 12.2 yards per reception. If he can produce numbers in the 4.5 yards per carry range and receive 250-275 combined rushing and receiving touches as Bush did, Abdullah is going to be a steal come draft day at his current 6.01 ADP.

Target Abdullah with confidence, as he's in a similar situation as Coleman. Talent will win out in Detroit.