Matt Jones - Fantasy Points Outlook

One of the biggest Eagles questions facing fantasy owners is just how much work we can expect RB Jay Ajayi to get. Well, he spoke to that a bit this week. “I’m excited,” Ajayi said Tuesday, per USA Today's Eagles Wire. “Obviously things have gotten a little bit shaken up in our room, and I’m excited to get into that lead role, do what’s needed of me and just go ball." Ajayi averaged just 11.2 carries per game over 10 contests (playoffs included) after joining the Eagles last year. But that climbed to 13.8 over the final 6 games, including 4 weeks of 14+ rushes. Philly coaches haven't specifically addressed backfield roles yet, and the backfield remains crowded. Corey Clement should continue to see a significant role. And Darren Sproles -- who opened last year as the team leader in RB snaps before a Week 3 injury -- returns. Matt Jones, Donnel Pumphrey, Wendell Smallwood and undrafted free agent Josh Adams are also fighting for roles. The "lead role" Ajayi refers to doesn't necessarily mean workhorse-level touches, and we're not projecting that for him. But a lead job in what should again rank among the league's top offenses will undoubtedly carry fantasy upside. Ajayi could particularly bring a high TD ceiling, given his size vs. the remaining backfield competition. He's a decent value at current ADP, and we'll continue to monitor the Eagles backfield as we move into summer.

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