7 Paths to Climbing the Running Back Depth Chart

3. Roster Moves Create New Depth Chart

Rumors of in-season roster moves by teams are far more common than trades and acquisitions themselves. However, 2017 saw two highly important trades that impacted the depth charts and fantasy implications of four teams: Adrian Peterson to Arizona, and Jay Ajayi to Philadelphia.

The Peterson and Ajayi trades had significant impacts on the four teams involved. Though a backup, Peterson’s departure from New Orleans removed the restrictor plate from the dual engine that was Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara. Similarly, his introduction to Arizona spelled the end of Andre Ellington’s usefulness there. Ellington was later released by the Cardinals and acquired by the Texans.

Jay Ajayi’s trade to the Eagles opened an immediate door for opportunities in Miami between Kenyan Drake and Damien Williams. Between superior play and a timely injury to Williams, Drake was able to showcase his ability and now enters 2018 as the presumably preferred option in the backfield alongside newcomer Frank Gore. Ajayi, however, found a tougher time finding his role in the Eagles backfield. Traded in Week 9, it was not until Week 13 that Ajayi led the Eagles backfield in scoring.

Lesson: First, remember that trades alter the opportunities in two places. While many understood that Peterson would become the alpha dog in Arizona, fewer people realized that his minimal volume in New Orleans could push Ingram and Kamara to more entrenched and dynamic roles.

Second, consider what the move says about the team’s faith in their current situation. The team trading the asset away is likely demonstrating a confidence in the remaining options. The team trading for the asset is likely a believer that the player can contribute in their system. Consider the compensation.