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Thursday Night Football was yet another ugly four quarters of football from the Denver Broncos, despite trailing by just one possession late in the fourth quarter. Following Javonte Williams' injury earlier this year, fantasy managers rushed to the waiver wire to claim Samaje Perine in hopes of finding a back with an expanded role.
Perine left Thursday's game with leg and knee injuries, and his status for next week is in question. If he misses significant time, he could find himself buried on the Broncos' depth chart.
Can Samaje Perine Be A Reliable Fantasy Option?
Even prior to Perine leaving Thursday's game, the workload was very concerning. He logged just nine snaps and ran five routes, not receiving a single carry. Williams returned and totaled 52 yards on just 10 attempts, while rookie Jaleel McLaughlin averaged 4.29 yards per carry and also took on some receiving work.
While the injury history of Williams suggests Perine could find himself in a bigger role, the ceiling looks to be splitting carries with McLaughlin, who also excels in the passing game. McLaughlin is a bit undersized but has shown explosiveness and would likely receive more opportunities if Williams misses any more time.
Can I Drop Samaje Perine in Fantasy Football?
Perine filled in well for Joe Mixon a year ago in Cincinnati and had a productive receiving day when Williams missed a game earlier this year. However, with the return of the Broncos' starter, Williams, along with Perine's injury on Thursday, it would take a lot for him to secure a consistent role this year.
McLaughlin will get a chance to shine while Williams ramps up his workload, especially if Perine has to miss time. Allowing the undrafted rookie to prove his abilities could push Perine down to RB3 on the depth chart, and it would take a significant number of injuries for him to secure a legitimate role.
Dropping Perine is an acceptable move to explore better options on the waiver wire.
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