The powerhouse New England Patriots solidified their running back position with the signing of veteran Joseph Addai formerly of the Indianapolis Colts.
Addai is competent in pass protection and has shown a penchant for getting in the end-zone when given the opportunity boasting two double-digit touchdown seasons.
Addai’s signing looks to be more of the veteran insurance variety but dont be surprised to see him take on the lead back role if Vereen and Ridley start slowly out of the gate.
Fantasy Analysis:
Joseph Addai – Addai was brought in as veteran insurance and as a potential third-down back if injuries occur. However if both Ridley and Vereen struggle out of the gate Addai may be able to carve out a larger role mitigating the fantasy value of both sophomore backs. Addai is probably someone who is best left on the wire or as a roster stash in 14 team plus leagues.
Tom Brady – Extra stability in the run game will only help to strengthen the Pats passing attack. Addai is a competent third down back and can step in and play on any down if and when injuries occur in the backfield. Brady is still a top-five fantasy QB for the 2012 fantasy football season.
Rob Gronkowski – The addition of Addai and his pass protection skills will allow Gronk to come of the line on third downs against the stronger front fours such as the Raiders. Gronkowski’s fantasy value remains unchanged as he is entrenched as a top-three fantasy tight end.
Aaron Hernandez – The addition of Addai does not affect Hernandez’s fantasy value. He is a TE1 with a weekly TE2 floor.
Wes Welker – Wes Welker and the other Patriots wide receivers can only benefit from the Patriots reinforcing their rushing attack. Opposing D’s will likely attempt to load up to stop the pass which in turn will give the run game more room to operate and churn out yards, which, of course in turn will help open things up for the passing game. Welker remains a WR1 and a PPR dynamo.
Shane Vereen/Stevan Ridley – Both of these running backs fantasy values take a hit with this news with Ridley taking the more serious tumble. Ridley was expected to be an RB2 and was going in that range based on ADP, but now will fall to RB3 territory at best. Vereen who was a sleeper pick will now likely be able to be had at the very end of your draft.
