Should I Start Nyheim Hines in Week 9? Fantasy Football Trade Outlook

The Buffalo Bills traded for former Colts' running back Nyheim Hines just before the NFL's trade deadline on Tuesday, November 1st a 4 pm. Buffalo was reportedly making calls about Kareem Hunt and Alvin Kamara, but eventually found their pass-catching specialist in Hines.

Hines is undoubtedly a solid weapon that'll help an already explosive offensive attack, but where does he fit in as a fantasy football asset?

Hines has had PPR value in the past, but is he worth starting in Week 9 in his first game with his new team?

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Why Was Nyheim Hines Traded To Buffalo?

Since Buffalo was targeting pass-catching running backs this offseason and in this year's trade market, they obviously aren't content with the duo of  Devin Singletary and rookie James Cook leading the backfield. Going on his fifth season in the NFL, Hines has caught 235 passes for 1,725 yards and seven receiving touchdowns. He's also put up 1,205 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, but his strength is certainly as a pass-catcher.

The cost for Hines was cheap, as Buffalo sent a conditional sixth-round pick and Zack Moss to get the deal done. The writing was on the wall for Moss after Buffalo drafted James Cook in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and it was clear his future with the Bills was about done after being a healthy scratch in numerous games this season.

Should I Start Nyheim Hines in Week 9 Fantasy Football?

Although Hines is worth adding to rosters in PPR leagues, he's unlikely to see a major role in his initial start with Buffalo. Josh Allen and the Bills offense has a passing attack with a ton of volume that rivals any team in the league, but Singletary has been solid this season, and Hines will take some time to get accustomed to his new offense.

Ultimately, Hines' fantasy production could be up-and-down since he's not going to be a workhorse back with a dominant opportunity share, but he will be on the fantasy radar starting in Week 10. He could surprise us with a big reception total immediately, but it's not what we can project against the New York Jets in Week 9. For now, keep him on the bench and hope he flashes in his first game for the AFC front-runners.

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