Rizzla takes a look at the San Francisco 49ers signing of Tevin Coleman, and discusses the fantasy context.
Kyle Shanahan got his man. For those of you who remember, Shanahan coached Coleman in Atlanta, and even drafted a running back named Joe Williams because he reminded him of his former weapon. Williams is now in the AAF, and the 49ers have signed Coleman to a 2 year, $10 million dollar deal as per Adam Schefter.
49ers signing Tevin Coleman to a two-year, $10 million deal, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2019
This is a huge move for the 49ers who needed a lead runner since Jerick McKinnon went down last year. Those of us who play fantasy football were plenty fine with Matt Breida when he was on the field, but that fact remained that the 49ers needed some stability at the position. The 49ers actually have an out in McKinnon’s contract that they would probably be wise to utilize. It would leave behind $6 million in dead cap but would allow them to further strengthen their backfield through the draft rather than gamble on a player coming back from a torn ACL. However if they wait until June 1st they can spread that cap hit out.
Fantasy Context:
Tevin Coleman is currently locked in as the starter. There should be no doubt that Coleman is more talented than Jerick McKinnon. While Coleman was not as impressive as anyone thought he would be in Atlanta with Devonta Freeman lost for the season, part of that blame has to fall on the shoulders of offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian. Shanahan knows how to use Coleman, and should be able to once again maximize his talents. Coleman remains a RB2 but now has weekly RB1 upside. The presence of Matt Breida gives him a significant floor, but he remains a strong option if McKinnon is designated as a post-June 1st cut as expected.
Could be retained. Possible McKinnon gets cut. Time will tell. If JM is kicked to the curb, Breida would work in tandem with Coleman. https://t.co/sT0LDNFR2F
— Brad Evans (@YahooNoise) March 13, 2019
Matt Breida’s value takes a nosedive with this news. Breida will undoubtedly stay involved in the offense due to his electric ability, but the 49ers acquired a back that presents just as much upside as a receiver, if not more, as he does. Breida is now an explosive flex2 option in deeper leagues and upside bench depth in shallower leagues. His dynasty value takes a major hit here, but owners will should hold onto him as handcuff.
Jerick McKinnon is slated for a change of pace role wherever he lands. There is little reason to believe any NFL head coach, especially Shanahan, would place him as the lead back over Coleman. As mentioned above, the 49ers can easily get out from under his contract and may do so in June to spread out the cap hit. If he remains on the 49ers he is mere bench depth in deep leagues and a solid best ball target. If he finds a new home this summer he could find his way back to flex value. This is a situation to monitor.
Justice Hill. This is the first time I have ever included a draft prospect in a fantasy context breakdown. but Hill reminds one of Devonta Freeman. All the way down to finding scouting reports saying he runs like his hair is on fire. This would be a dream addition to the 49ers backfield. Hill is a wild runner who has big play ability and relishes contact.
