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2/22/2013

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles focused on being more patient

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles is working on becoming a more patient runner this offseason. While he'll continue his offseason workouts with Drew Brees and others on the West Coast, Sproles wants to take his already good field vision and become a bit more patient as a runner. Saints fullback Jed Collins told the official team website that Sproles' developed patience could make him an even better player. "I don't think the average fan understands how great his vision is," said Collins. "He has even helped me in knowing where people are going to be after the snap, their responsibilities and coverages. His vision helps in setting up blocks, making the first guy miss and knowing where the second guy is coming from."

Analysis: If you draft Sproles, you're banking on him coming through as a pass catcher more than a rusher, which isn't necessarily an issue since he has been excellent out of the backfield. He basically matched his 2011 receiving totals in 13 games. But his rushing woes were evident as he had just 48 handoffs all year thanks to four games of no handoffs and seven with five or fewer. That makes Sproles a risk as a Top 20 running back but not quite as a low-end No. 2 option in a standard league. Obviously the receptions he's expected to handle push him up in PPR formats to a very solid No. 2 option. He's worth a late fourth-round pick in standard leagues and a third-round pick in PPR formats this summer.

12/30/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles again stars for Saints

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles closed the season on a high note in Week 17 on Sunday against Carolina. Sproles had just three carries for 1 yard, but he added eight catches for 79 yards and a touchdown, which came from 33 yards out. Sproles now has double digits in Fantasy points in each of his final four games with four touchdowns over that span.

Analysis: Sproles finished the season with 48 carries for 244 yards and a touchdown and 75 catches for 667 yards and seven touchdowns. He now has 161 catches for 1,377 yards and 14 touchdowns in two years with the Saints, and he remains a PPR star. He's also a great option in standard leagues, and we consider Sproles a Top 24 running back in 2013. He should be drafted by Round 4 in standard leagues and by Round 3 in PPR formats.

12/27/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles looks to stay hot

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles is playing well heading into Week 17 against Carolina. Sproles has 24 Fantasy points in his past two games against Tampa Bay and Dallas, mostly because of his receiving skills with 12 catches for 125 yards and a touchdown. He has double digits in Fantasy points in three games in a row. The best thing about Sproles is he's getting carries with 19 in his past three games. He has seven games this season with at least five carries, and he's reached double digits in Fantasy points in five of those outings.

Analysis: The last time the Saints faced the Panthers in Week 2, Sproles had 13 catches for 128 yards. We're counting on another quality performance in the season finale, and we consider Sproles a must-start Fantasy option in all formats this week.

12/23/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles back over century mark

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles piled up a season-high 152 yards from scrimmage during New Orleans' 34-31 overtime victory at Dallas in Week 16. Sproles chewed up 48 rushing yards on nine carries for a solid average of 5.3 yards per attempt. He shined the brightest in the passing game, registering seven catches for 104 yards -- the first time he has eclipsed the century mark since Week 2 against Carolina (128 yards).

Analysis: Sproles was among three Saints players to register double figures in targets as he received 10 looks from quarterback Drew Brees. It was clearly one of his most effective performances of the season, but he was unable to find the end zone for the first time over the past three games. Sproles should be able to continue his strong finish in Week 17 at home against the Panthers as he finished with 13 catches for his other 100-yard outing during the teams' previous meeting this season.

12/22/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles rolling into end zone

News: Despite not surpassing 90 total yards over the past two games, New Orleans running back Darren Sproles has still made an impact by reaching the end zone. Finally at full strength following surgery to repair a broken hand, Sproles has posted three touchdowns in that span, including his first rushing score since Week 7 of last season. He will attempt to continue his scoring stretch during a Week 16 matchup at Dallas, which ranks in the top half in the NFL in both run defense (15th) and pass defense (14th).

Analysis: After being gradually eased back into action following his surgery, Sproles has started to earn more carries and racked up five rushing attempts in each of his past two games. But the bulk of his damage comes in the passing game as he's rolled up six touchdown catches while averaging 8.1 yards per reception. The Cowboys have been solid against pass-catching backs this season and have not allowed a touchdown to the position through the air. But they are permitting an average of 16.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing backs, leaving Sproles as a quality option in most formats for Week 16, primarily PPR leagues.

12/16/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has three TDs in last two

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles hauled in his sixth receiving touchdown of the season Week 15 vs. Tampa Bay. Sproles managed his seventh offensive touchdown on a 2-yard catch in the second quarter. He would finished with five catches for 21 yards and five carries for 22 yards. He now has a touchdown in four of his last six games and three touchdowns (two receiving) in his last two games.

Analysis: Sproles missed a few games this season because of a hand injury, but he has shown the last two weeks he is back to full strength and back to making plays for New Orleans. Sproles has more Fantasy value in PPR leagues than standard formats, but if he keeps scoring like he has the last few weeks, then it won't matter the format. Fantasy owners should consider keeping Sproles active heading into Week 16 at Dallas.

12/12/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has TD streak vs. Bucs

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles aims for a receiving touchdown in a third straight game against NFC South rival Tampa Bay Week 15. Sproles managed five carries for 27 yards and four catches for 32 yards and one touchdown Week 7 at Tampa Bay. Running backs average 67 rushing yards, 41.5 receiving yards and 14.6 Fantasy points per week against the Bucs, which is the ninth-lowest average in the league. Running backs have totaled 10 touchdowns (eight rushing) against Tampa Bay.

Analysis: Sproles had his best Fantasy performance of the season Week 14 at N.Y. Giants. It was the first time this season he managed multiple touchdowns. Sproles also managed to get some carries for the first time in three games last week. It seems Sproles is fully recovered from the hand injury that sidelined him for three contests. However, he still has to contend with Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram for reps out of the backfield. Sproles has elevated value in PPR formats. Consider him a low-end Fantasy start in standard formats Week 15.

12/9/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles shakes off leg issue

News: New Orleans running back Darren Sproles totaled 84 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns -- the team's only offensive scores -- during the Saints' 52-27 loss at the Giants in Week 14. Sproles finished with five carries for 56 yards as he posted his first rushing touchdown on the season with his 13-yard run in the third quarter. He also added a 9-yard touchdown catch later in the quarter for his first outing with multiple scores since Oct. 23, 2011, against Indianapolis. Sproles tallied four catches for 28 yards on seven targets from Drew Brees.

Analysis: Sproles missed some playing time during the first half as he was sent to the locker room to have his leg examined after he came up hobbling following an early punt return. But he showed no lingering effects of the issue with his strong touchdown runs, his first scores since returning from a three-game absence while recovering from surgery to repair a broken hand. Sproles is still a highly active member of the Saints' offense and should continue to be viewed as a strong option in all Fantasy formats for Week 15 against Tampa Bay.

12/8/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles aims for positive step

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles will take the field in Week 14 at the Giants for the third time since returning from a three-game absence while recovering from surgery to repair a broken hand. He will again be looking for a return to his standout form after he was limited to just five catches for 47 yards during his previous game at Atlanta. He was targeted nine times by quarterback Drew Brees, but could not avoid his second-lowest yardage total of the season. The New York defense ranks 21st and 22nd against the run and pass, respectively this year.

Analysis: While Sproles has collected 12 receptions in his two games since returning to the lineup, he has yet to register a rushing attempt in that span. The 29-year-old normally does most of his damage hauling in short passes from Brees, but he is averaging a decent 4.5 yards per carry on the season. The Giants have had trouble against pass-catching backs and allowed 18 Fantasy points per game to Cleveland dual-threat Trent Richardson in Week 5. Overall, they are yielding an average of 12.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs so consider Sproles a viable option in most formats, with most of his value in PPR leagues.

11/30/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles held without a carry again

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles failed to earn a carry for the fourth time this season Thursday night against the Falcons in Week 13. As expected, Sproles was more involved in the passing game and caught five of his nine targeted passes for 47 yards in a 23-13 defeat. He nearly scored a touchdown with under 30 seconds remaining in the first half, but it was called back due to a offensive pass interference call on Jimmy Graham. He was the fourth-leading receiver behind Lance Moore (121 yards), Marques Colston (71 yards) and Graham (59 yards).

Analysis: Sproles has failed to score a touchdown in his last two games and has racked up 112 yards on 12 catches over that stretch. Sproles is an all-purpose back used mostly to catch passes and has taken a backseat in the running game to Pierre Thomas, Chris Ivory and Mark Ingram. He'll try to get back on track heading into Week 14 on the road against the Giants. The Giants have not allowed a running back to score a receiving touchdown this season. Consider Sproles as a quality option in most formats heading into Week 14.

11/27/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles seeing first of Falcons

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles returned to action following a three-week absence last week and caught seven passes for 65 yards. He's back to full strength as he gets set to play at Atlanta in Week 13 on Thursday. Sproles did not face the Falcons Week 10 as he was inactive for that game. He has played Atlanta three times in his career and has one career touchdown against them. His last game came in December of last season and he totaled 89 yards with a score in that contest.

Analysis: The Saints main issue for Fantasy owners is the fact they have four viable running backs fighting for carries and touches. Sproles is an all-purpose back used mostly to catch passes. Chris Ivory and Mark Ingram should see touches and Pierre Thomas also gets into the act. That limits each's maximum value but Sproles has continued to be a viable option regardless, when healthy. The Falcons are allowing the 11th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this season. Atlanta allowed Doug Martin to score twice last week and a TD certainly could be in store for Sproles Week 13. He's probably the best Fantasy option the Saints offer and can be starting in most formats Thursday.

11/25/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles nets 65 yards in return

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles was fairly productive in Week 12 against the 49ers. Sproles, who had missed the team's previous three games after breaking his hand, finished with a team-high seven receptions for 65 yards in the 31-21 defeat. His longest reception went for 35 yards and he was targeted a team-high nine times by Drew Brees. However, Sproles did not record a carry for just the third time this season.

Analysis: Sproles was finally able to get back on the field Sunday, but was held in check for most of the afternoon. He was used primarily on third downs and did most of his damage on a long gain at the end of the game when the 49ers were in prevent defense. However, now that Sproles is healthy, his workload will likely increase in the coming weeks. The 29-year-old is usually good for around 10-12 touches per contest and we would expect him to be a bit more involved in the game plan when the Saints take on the Falcons in Week 13. Consider Sproles a quality option in most formats Thursday night, especially in PPR formats.

11/25/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles good to go

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles was officially ruled active for Week 12 against the 49ers. Sproles, who had missed the previous three games while recovering from a broken hand, was able to practice in full all week. He will be facing a San Francisco defense that is surrendering just 94.3 yards per game on the ground, which ranks seventh overall.

Analysis: Sproles picked a tough game to make his return as the 49ers have been very stringy against the the run. However, the 29-year-old gas garnered most of his production through the passing game as he has gained more receiving yards than rushing yards in all but one of his seven games played this season. The 49ers are permitting an average of 10.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs, but Sproles can be considered a quality option in most formats for Week 12, primarily PPR leagues.

11/23/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles primed for return

News: New Orleans running back Darren Sproles (hand) was listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 12 against San Francisco after practicing in full throughout the past week. Sproles has missed the past three games while recovering from surgery to repair a broken hand, but is expected to the lineup Sunday for the first time since Oct. 28. If active (as anticipated), he faces a daunting challenege during his return as the 49ers boast the seventh-best rush defense in the league and are surrendering just 94.3 yards per game on the ground.

Analysis: Sproles might find it difficult to maneuver around the San Francisco defense coming out of the backfield, but most of his production has come in the passing game anyway. The 29-year-old has gained more receiving yards than rushing yards in all but one of his seven games played this season and has 323 total yards on 39 catches with four touchdowns. The 49ers are permitting an average of 10.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs, but Sproles is a quality option in most formats for Week 12, primarily PPR leagues.

11/21/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles practices in full

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles, who has missed the last three games recovering from hand surgery, was able to practice in full Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 12 vs. San Francisco. Sproles is listed as probable on the team's injury report and will face 49ers defense that is surrendering just 94.3 yards per game on the ground. San Francisco has surrendered three rushing scores on the year while yielding an average of 10.6 points to opposing RBs on the year.

Analysis: Sproles was practicing last week before experiencing some late-week swelling, which kept him sidelined another game. We imagine he could be in a similar situation this week. The Saints will monitor how he does during practice and then make a decision about his Week 12 status. If Sproles is active, then Fantasy owners should consider starting him Week 12, especially in PPR formats. The 49ers certainly present a tough challenge, but if you recall Sproles totaled 15 catches for 119 yards and one touchdown in a playoff game against the 49ers last season.

11/18/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles officially ruled inactive

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles (hand) was officially ruled inactive for Week 11 against the Raiders. Sproles, who was listed as questionable entering the contest, has now missed the past three games while recovering from hand surgery. Mark Ingram, Chris Ivory and Pierre Thomas are expected to split carries against the Raiders.

Analysis: Sproles is still dealing with some swelling in his hand, so the Saints decided to take the cautious approach and keep him out another week. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status over the next few days to see if he will be able to suit up against the 49ers in Week 12. Sproles would be worth starting in most formats if he is able to play next week.

11/18/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Report: Sproles expected to sit

News: FOX Sports reports barring a last-second surprise, Saints running back Darren Sproles, who is questionable because of a hand injury, is expected to be deactivated Week 11 at Oakland. He has missed the past two games recovering from hand surgery.

Analysis: Sproles was able to practice this last week, but he experienced some swelling in his hand Friday, so it seems the Saints probably will be cautious since they likely can beat Oakland without Sproles. Unless you can risk waiting for the 4 p.m. inactives, then Fantasy owners should plan to start a healthier alternative Week 11.

11/16/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Doctors to make call on Sproles

News: New Orleans running back Darren Sproles (hand) was labeled questionable for Week 11 at Oakland despite participating in practice throughout the week. Sproles, who has missed the past two games while recovering from surgery, experienced some swelling in his hand Friday. If active, he will be facing a Raiders team that ranks 21st in the league against the run (119 yards per game) and also has issues containing the pass (255.9 yards per game), which is where Sproles maintains a greater presence. Oakland is also surrendering an average of 21.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this season and has been burned for five touchdowns to the position the past two games. Vitt also said Sproles would handle punt returns if he's active. Sproles says team doctors will make the final call. "We are trying to get the swelling out," Sproles said according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune. "That's the main thing. But it is going to swell because it is trying to heal."

Analysis: It looks like Sproles has a good chance to play, though his return would create a logjam in the New Orleans backfield with Chris Ivory, Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram also vying for carries. But the team reportedly has crafted a plan for Sunday's game and offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael indicated the Saints could use a rotation of all four and ride the hottest player. Earlier this season Sproles played in over 60 percent of the Saints' snaps just one time (Week 1) and played in under half of their offensive snaps in four of seven games, so don't expect him to play a ton -- especially in non-obvious passing situations. Sproles is certainly worth activating in PPR leagues and could be worth the risk in standard formats. Keep in mind the Saints play at 4:05 p.m. ET on Sunday, well after the early games kick off. If he's inactive your replacement options could be limited. We hope to know more this Sunday morning on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports Network (check local listings).

11/15/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles practices in full

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles, who has missed the last two games recovering from hand surgery, was upgraded to full practice Thursday, increasing his chances of playing Week 11 at Oakland. The Raiders rank 21st in the league in run defense, giving up 119 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 21.1 Fantasy points per week to running backs.

Analysis: It seems Sproles has made a quicker than expected recovery from surgery and could very well be back on the field Sunday. However, there is no telling how much he might play. He could be eased back into action, especially since the Saints have gotten solid play lately from Chris Ivory, Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram. Earlier this season Sproles played in over 60 percent of the Saints' snaps just one time (Week 1) and played in under half of their offensive snaps in four of seven games. Fantasy owners, especially in PPR formats, have to keep tabs on Sproles' progress. If he's active Sunday then he could be worth starting in Fantasy given the favorable matchup. But we advise to temper expectations. We'll keep you posted.

11/14/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles 'looked good' in practice

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles, who has missed the last two games recovering from hand surgery, returned to limited practice reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 11 at Oakland. The Saints didn't hit in practice, but interim coach Joe Vitt said Sproles caught passes and ran the ball well. Vitt added Sproles was full-go in shells and "looked good." "He had a good practice," Vitt said. Oakland ranks 21st in the league in run defense, giving up 119 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 21.1 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.

Analysis: The initial reports were Sproles was expected to miss 4-6 weeks after having early November hand surgery. We are only halfway through that timetable, but it seems as though Sproles might make an earlier than expected return. With this news, Fantasy owners, especially in PPR formats, now have to keep tabs on Sproles' progress. His potential return also creates a mess in the Saints' backfield since many Fantasy owners have added the likes of Chris Ivory, Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram. If Sproles is back Week 11, then it will create a messy situation for Fantasy owners. Stay tuned.

11/11/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles officially inactive for Week 10

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles, who was already ruled out for the contest Friday, is officially inactive for Week 10 against the Falcons. He's missing his second straight game with a broken hand and might not return until Week 13.

Analysis: We've seen some conflicting reports on when exactly Sproles will return, so even though he was ruled out for this game pretty early, you'll want to keep an eye on his status leading up to Week 11 at Oakland. He may not be the top rushing option for the Saints, but his receiving ability makes him worth starting as a second running back or flex option when healthy.

11/9/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles rolls to sidelines

News: New Orleans running back Darren Sproles was ruled out for Week 10 against Atlanta while he continues his recovery from surgery to repair a broken hand. Sproles will miss his second straight game because of the issue and there is no timetable for his return.

Analysis: Despite the seemingly unrealistic report that Sproles could return to the lineup within two weeks following his surgery at the beginning of the month, was unable to practice throughout the week. The Saints will continue to rely on a rotation in the backfield that includes Pierre Thomas, Mark Ingram and Chris Ivory while Sproles is sidelined. Keep him parked on the bench in all Fantasy formats as he might not return until Week 13.

11/4/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles' return date debated

News: After a report surfaced Saturday that Saints running back Darren Sproles was facing a four-to-six week recovery period following surgery to repair a broken hand, ESPN reported Sunday that he could return sooner. According to ESPN's Chris Mortensen, Sproles could miss just one to two weeks with the setback and compared the issue to Denver's Willis McGahee, who returned in that time period with the same injury last season. New Orleans coach Joe Vitt has remained vague on a timetable for Sproles' return other than ruling him out for Week 9 against Philadelphia.

Analysis: Sproles, who leads all NFL running backs with 39 receptions, was originally targeting a return in Week 13 at Atlanta. However, the latest report creates some optimism that he could return before the month of December. Last year, McGahee was fitted for a cast for his injury and was able to stay in the starting lineup for the Broncos. But Sproles does most of his damage in the passing game, which could make that scenario tougher. Either way, Sproles will likely miss at least two games, and Fantasy owners should keep him reserved in all formats for now.

11/3/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles hopes for Week 13 return

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles, who has already been ruled out for the Week 9 Monday night game against the Eagles, is looking at a 4-6 week recovery period for his broken hand, reports ESPN Saturday. The fracture is on Sproles' upper left hand near his wrist and the RB has already undergone surgery. He could return Week 13 at Atlanta sporting a cast.

Analysis: Sproles is going to be out until at least Week 13 against the Falcons. That is a best-case scenario at this point after he suffered the broken bone. Fantasy owners should expect to be without Sproles for the rest of your Fantasy season, unfortunately. He may help out in the last few weeks or the playoffs, but can otherwise pretty much be dropped.

11/2/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Hand surgery sidelines Sproles

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles will not play in Week 9 against Philadelphia after having surgery to repair a broken hand, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports. Sproles was unable to practice this week ahead of Monday night's game because of the issue and could possibly be sidelined for additional weeks. In his second year with the Saints, Sproles has gained 323 yards on 39 catches to rank as the leading receiver in the NFL among all running backs through eight games. Pierre Thomas is expected to be the primary replacement for Sproles.

Analysis: The Saints provided no indication the dynamic 29-year-old was in line to have surgery, so this is a surprise -- thank goodness it came days before kickoff. New Orleans coach Joe Vitt provided no clear timetable for Sproles' return and said he would be evaluated again next week after the game. In his absence, Thomas should get upwards of 15 touches and spend a lot of time on the field along with Mark Ingram and Chris Ivory. For now, Fantasy owners should keep Sproles reserved in all formats until more information develops.

More Player News

11/1/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles held out of practice

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles was held out of practice Thursday with a hand injury. It was first erroneously reported Sproles had a hamstring injury. The Saints host the Eagles Week 9 (Monday). If active, Sproles will be looking to extend his scoring streak to three straight games. Sproles continues to do most of his damage as a receiver as he has hauled in a touchdown reception in each of his past two contests and has racked up 11 catches for 88 yards over that stretch. The Eagles enter the contest surrendering an average of 35.1 receiving yards and 13.6 Fantasy points per week to running backs.

Analysis: It's not time to hit the panic button yet, but we do need to keep tabs on Sproles' progress. The good news is that he gets extra time to rest because the Saints don't play until Monday. The bad news is that if Sproles is questionable, then Fantasy owners might need to make a call to perhaps play a healthier alternative Week 9 if you can't afford to wait. It's still early in the practice week for New Orleans, so it's wait-and-see mode. The 29-year-old leads all running backs in receptions (125) since the start of the 2011 season, and his 323 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns this year ranks tops among all ball carries. While he is not a conventional runner, Sproles has seen at least nine total touches in each of his last three games. Sproles is a viable Fantasy start when healthy.

10/31/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles doing damage as receiver

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles will be looking to extend his scoring streak to three straight games in Week 9 against the Eagles. Sproles continues to do most of his damage as a receiver as he has hauled in a touchdown reception in each of his past two contests and has racked up 11 catches for 88 yards over that stretch. The Eagles enter the contest surrendering an average of 35.1receiving yards and 13.6 Fantasy points to, opposing RBs on the year.

Analysis: Sproles continues to be used as another receiving option out of the backfield rather than as a runner as he has just 12 carries on the ground compared to 39 receptions. In fact, the 29-year-old leads all RBs in receptions (125) since the start of the 2011 season and his 323 receiving yards and four receiving TDs this year ranks tops among all ball carries. While he is not a conventional runner, Sproles has seen at least nine total touches in each of his last three games and we would expect that trend to continue this week. Fantasy owners should consider Sproles a viable low-end option in most formats this Monday night. Just keep in mind his value is slightly higher in PPR formats.

10/29/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles finds the end zone again

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles barely made an impact on the ground but made his presence felt in the passing game against the Broncos in Week 8. Sproles had four carries for minus-1 yard on the ground in a 34-14 defeat. Drew Brees targeted him nine times as he hauled in seven passes for 56 yards and a touchdown in a losing effort. Brees found him early on for 29-yard scoring strike in the second quarter for his fourth touchdown of the season.

Analysis: Sproles did not receive enough carries to get going on the ground, but has made it up with his production in the passing game. He has become one of Brees' to targets this season, especially when he is under pressure. He is not a conventional running back as his rushing totals aren't high and his value truly lies in PPR formats at this point. He'll try to find the end zone again at home against Philadelphia. The Eagles have permitted a total of 188 yards both on the ground and through the air against the Falcons in Week 8, which could result in another big game for Sproles. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 29-year-old as a solid starting option in the majority of formats heading into Week 9 against Philadelphia.

10/28/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles good to go in Week 8

News: As expected, Saints running back Darren Sproles was ruled active for Sunday night's contest against the Broncos in Week 8. Sproles was excused from the team for a few days to deal with an illness in the family and will face a Denver team that has yielded just 3.7 yards per carry, which is tied for fifth lowest in the league. Sproles has been involved in the passing game however, as he has notched at least four catches in each of his past three games and leads all running backs with 267 receiving yards on 32 catches.

Analysis: Sproles has had more receptions (32) than rushing attempts (22) at this point in the season, but has seen more carries as the season progresses. He played his first two games without taking a handoff and has just 118 rushing yards over his last four games. He is not a conventional running back as his rushing totals aren't high and his value truly lies in PPR formats at this point. The Broncos have allowed 11 touchdowns passing and just four on the ground. Opposing running backs have averaged 15.3 Fantasy points against the Broncos this season, which could lead to his fifth double-digit output of the season. Fantasy owners should keep him active as a solid starting option in most formats heading into Week 8.

10/26/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles back at practice, ready for Week 8

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles was back at practice for the first time this week after being excused from practice because of a family illness leading up to Week 8 at Denver. Sproles is listed as probable and is expected to play on Sunday night. He'll have a tough test on the road against the Broncos. The Broncos have allowed just 3.7 yards per carry, which is tied for fifth lowest in the NFL. Sproles has notched at least four catches in each of his past three games and leads all running backs with 267 receiving yards on 32 catches.

Analysis: Sproles has been more involved in the passing game, catching passes out of the backfield, and has not been heavily involved in the running game, with only five rushing attempts in each of his last three games. That said, none of his three touchdowns have come on the ground as he has failed to eclipse 30 yards rushing over that three-game stretch. He is not a conventional running back as his rushing totals aren't high and his value truly lies in PPR formats at this point. The Broncos have allowed 11 touchdowns passing and just four on the ground. Opposing running backs have averaged 15.3 Fantasy points against the Broncos this season, which could lead to his fifth double-digit output of the season. Fantasy owners should consider him as a solid starting option in most formats heading into Week 8.

10/25/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles will play Sunday

News: Saints interim coach Joe Vitt said Thursday running back Darren Sproles was excused from practice for a second straight day because of a family illness, but he will play Week 8 at Denver. Sproles will have a tough test on the road against the Broncos. The Broncos have allowed just 3.7 yards per carry, which is tied for fifth lowest in the NFL. Sproles has notched at least four catches in each of his past three games and leads all running backs with 267 receiving yards on 32 catches.

Analysis: Sproles has been solid catching passes out of the backfield, but he has not been heavily involved in the running game, with only five rushing attempts in each of his last three games. None of his three touchdowns have come on the ground as he has failed to eclipse 30 yards rushing over that three-game stretch. The Broncos have allowed 11 passing touchdowns and just four on the ground. Opposing running backs have averaged 15.3 Fantasy points against the Broncos this season, which could lead to his fifth double-digit output of the season. Fantasy owners should consider him as a viable starting option in most formats heading into Week 8.

10/24/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles looking for fourth TD

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles will have a tough test on the road against the Broncos in Week 8. Sproles amassed 59 total yards from scrimmage and scored a touchdown in Week 7 against the Buccaneers. The Broncos have allowed just 3.7 yards per game, which ranks sixth in the league. He has notched at least four catches in each of his past three games and leads all running backs with 267 receiving yards on 32 catches.

Analysis: Sproles has been solid catching passes out of the backfield, but he has not been heavily involved in the running game, with only five rushing attempts in each of his last three games. That said, none of his three touchdowns have come on the ground as he has failed to eclipse 30 yards rushing over that three-game stretch. He is not a conventional running back as his rushing totals aren't high and his value truly lies in PPR formats at this point. The Broncos have allowed 11 touchdowns passing and just four on the ground. Opposing running backs have averaged 15.3 Fantasy points against the Broncos this season, which could lead to his fifth double-digit output of the season. Fantasy owners should consider him as a solid starting option in most formats heading into Week 8.

10/21/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles returns to end zone

News: New Orleans running back Darren Sproles amassed 59 total yards from scrimmage and scored a touchdown during the Saints' 35-28 win over Tampa Bay in Week 7. Sproles hauled in a 9-yard pass from quarterback Drew Brees in the second quarter -- one of three passing scores in the period -- for his third receiving touchdown of the season. He finished with four catches for 32 yards while also adding 27 yards on five rush attempts.

Analysis: Sproles actually posted one of his finest rushing performances of the season as the Buccaneers' third-ranked run defense had trouble corralling the shifty 29-year-old. But his greatest value remains in the passing game as he's notched at least four receptions in each of the past three weeks (14 total) and has scored three receiving touchdowns to none on the ground. Continue to consider him a high-end Fantasy option -- especially in PPR formats -- for Week 8 at Denver.

10/20/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles back on higher ground

News: Since his uncharacteristic zero-catch outing in Week 3 -- the first time he has gone without a reception since 2010 -- New Orleans running back Darren Sproles has returned to being a standout in the Saints' passing game. Sproles has notched five catches in each of his past two games and has also reached the end zone with his second touchdown of the season in that span. He enters Week 7 at Tampa Bay leading all NFL running backs with 114 receptions since the beginning of the 2011 campaign, his first season with the Saints.

Analysis: Aside from his 62-yard performance in Week 3, Sproles continues to be bottled up when taking the ball out of the backfield, but he remains a tremendous option in New Orleans' high-octane passing attack. He currently has 28 receptions for 235 yards on the season, and could greatly increase those totals Sunday as the Buccaneers rank second-to-last in the NFL in defending the pass (312.2 yards allowed per game). Tampa Bay is yielding an average of 12.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs, but Sproles is hardly a conventional back. Consider him a solid start in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 7.

10/8/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles limited in win

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles posted his least-productive game of the season Sunday against the Chargers in Week 5. Sproles rushed for just nine yards on five carries, and he failed to make an impact in the passing game as well. Sproles caught five passes, but managed to earn just 28 yards in a 31-24 win.

Analysis: Sproles has managed to cobble together solid Fantasy performances in his own unique way for much of the season. In two games he has a touchdown; in another, he topped 100 yards and 10 catches. He has just two games without reaching either bench mark, which is why he has remained the most useful of the Saints’ backs. He will try to get back on track after the team’s Week 6 bye. Sproles is enough of a weapon in the offense that he remains worth using in most Fantasy formats for Week 7 against Tampa.

10/5/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Chargers focused on Sproles

News: The Chargers are very familiar with Saints running back Darren Sproles, as he spent the first five years of his career in San Diego. They know what to expect from the undersized playmaker in Week 5, but that does not mean they have a strong idea of how to stop him. "I think what you do is take from what people did to us," Turner told U-T San Diego. "You look at the games where people were effective against him and see how they managed it, how they handled it. You know he's going to get his plays, but we'll try to keep him from getting the ball out in space where he makes big plays." Sproles enters the game averaged just 20.5 yards per game on the ground, however he also averages 51.8 yards per game on better than five catches per game as well.

Analysis: Sproles is not your typical running back, and the Saints have figured out a way to incorporate him into their high-flying passing game. The diminutive playmaker ranks just 50th in the league in rushing yards, but is still in the top-20 in Fantasy points for running backs. He ranks even more highly in PPR formats. The Chargers have been a middle-of-the-road team against running backs this season, ranking 14th in the league in Fantasy points allowed to opposing running backs. They have been especially gashed by pass-catching backs, allowing eight catches and 55.5 yards per game through the air. Fantasy owners should like Sproles as a starting option this for Week 5.

9/30/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles hauls in second touchdown

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles was able to find the end zone for the second time this season in Week 4 against the Packers. He hauled in a 6-yard scoring strike from quarterback Drew Brees in the second quarter and finished with five catches for 44 yards in the 28-27 loss. Sproles led New Orleans with 20 yards on five carries. Sproles, who was targeted for seven passes, also had a 4-yard punt return in the defeat.

Analysis: Sproles was held without a catch a week ago but had a well-balanced performance on Sunday. The Saints love to get him the ball in space and do a solid job of utilizing his rare skill set. His appeal in Fantasy is even greater in PPR formats but the 29-year-old remains a reliable option in the majority of leagues heading into Week 5 against his former team -- the Chargers. San Diego allowed 119 yards rushing and a touchdown to Kansas City in Week 4.

9/26/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles looking to get back on track

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles was held without a catch for the first time since 2010 a week ago and will look to get back on track in Week 4 against the Packers. Green Bay sports the No. 1 pass defense in the league but rank 26th against the run, giving up nearly 136 yards per game. When Sproles faced the NFC foe last season, he combined for 250 yards, including returning a punt 72 yards for a touchdown.

Analysis: Sproles led the Saints in rushing in Week 3 but as owners know, his value in Fantasy is based on his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. He already has 18 catches for 163 yards and a touchdown through three games and should be able to get back on the board against the Packers. Green Bay has allowed an average of 15 Fantasy points to opposing running backs thus far. Sunday's contest should end up being a shootout with a ton of yards being piled up by both teams so continue to view the 29-year-old as a reliable option in the majority of Fantasy formats, especially PPR leagues.

9/23/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles ends up with no catches

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles ended up as his team's leading rusher Week 3 against the Chiefs. Sproles finished with 62 yards on seven carries, but most of his yards came on a 47-yard gainer in the first quarter. He surprisingly had no catches, but he was targeted three times in the passing game.

Analysis: Give the Chiefs a ton of credit for minimizing Sproles' impact Sunday. Week 3 was the first time he was held without a catch with the Saints and the first time he didn't record a catch since Week 4 of the 2010 season with the Chargers. Sproles hasn't had a lot of disappointing games lately, so hopefully he can get back on track Week 4 at Green Bay. Sproles remains a viable Fantasy start in most formats.

9/18/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles racking up TDs with Saints

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles is quite familiar with his Week 3 opponent, the Chiefs. Sproles faced Kansas City plenty of times when he was with the Chargers, but this will be the first time he faces the AFC West foe with New Orleans. In 10 career games against the Chiefs, Sproles has 28 carries for 129 yards and 23 receptions for 217 yards and one touchdown. However, he has taken on a much more impactful role since landing in New Orleans last season. Sproles heads into Week 3 having scored at least one touchdown in eight of his last 12 regular season games dating back to last season. It is 10 of 14 if you count last season's playoffs, when Sproles totaled three touchdowns in two games.

Analysis: The Saints don't use Sproles in the traditional sense of how NFL teams use running backs. While Sproles gets anywhere from 5-10 carries on average per game, he makes his biggest impact in the passing game. All but four of Sproles' 13 touchdowns (including playoffs) since joining New Orleans have been receiving. He is one of the Saints' top skill players and is involved heavily on offense every week. He has a little more value in PPR formats, but Sproles' ability to find the end zone frequently has made him a viable start in most formats on a weekly basis. The Chiefs have allowed no receiving touchdowns to running backs this season, but are yielding 20 Fantasy points per week to running backs.

9/16/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles becomes Brees' top target

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles was the team's leading receiver as he enjoyed a productive game against the Panthers in Week 2. Drew Brees targeted him early and often throughout the day, as he found him five times for 44 yards in the opening drive, including a big 25-yard gain for the Saints. Sproles, who has yet to take a handoff this season, caught 13 of 14 passes thrown his way for 120 yards and failed to reach the end zone in a 35-27 defeat. Sproles had zero carries and averaged 26 yards per kickoff return.

Analysis: Sproles seems to be a non-factor for the Saints in the running game thus far as they have used him for short passes out of the backfield instead. It's not like they had a hard time running the ball either, Pierre Thomas broke the 100-yard mark for New Orleans on Sunday. If the Saints continue to have trouble with their offensive line, Sproles could be Brees' escape option when he's pressured. He will head into his Week 3 matchup against the Chiefs at home with 155 yards receiving through two games. Fantasy owners should view Sproles as viable option heading into Week 3 against a weak Kansas City defense.

9/13/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to fight for touches

News: Saints running back Darren Sproles will look to make an impact in the running game as he heads into a Week 2 showdown against the Panthers. Sproles was a non-factor on the ground as interim coach Aaron Kromer abandoned the running game in their Week 1 defeat. Sproles, who averaged 6.9 yards an attempt last season, had zero carries. He was targeted eight times, with five receptions for 35 yards and a touchdown in the passing game. Sproles put together 91 yards rushing and 69 yards receiving with one touchdown in two games against the Panthers last season.

Analysis: Sproles should be a safe bet to post some better numbers as the season progresses. We still see him as the best offensive threat out of the three running backs, as he poses a threat on the ground and in the passing game. He caught five of the eight passes thrown his way despite not being involved in the running game. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a low-end option heading into Week 2.

9/9/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles catches late TD pass

News: New Orleans running back Darren Sproles found the end zone during the Week 1 home defeat against the Redskins. Sproles scored late in the game on a 2-yard touchdown pass from Drew Brees. Sproles, who added a two-point conversion run on the TD prior for the Saints, finished with five catches for 35 yards and the TD. He was targeted eight times in the passing game but did not have a single carry in the game outside the two-point conversion run. Sproles also averaged 34.3 yards per kick return and returned two punts as well in the game.

Analysis: The New Orleans running game did absolutely nothing Week 1 in the loss to the Redskins. Pierre Thomas rushed four times for 17 yards and Mark Ingram six times for 15. Sproles didn't run the ball, but was at least targeted heavily in the passing game and scored the touchdown. Sproles will continue to be the best offensive weapon of that group and Fantasy owners should continue starting him in most Fantasy formats heading into Week 2 at Carolina.

9/5/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles back at practice

News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Darren Sproles was able to practice Monday. He has been dealing with a knee injury, which caused him to miss the final two preseason games. Sproles is expected to be 100 percent for Week 1 against Washington. The Redskins were pretty tough against the run last year and should be once again. That said, Washington did give up 12 rushing touchdowns and if any RB scores for the Saints, it should be Sproles.

Analysis: Sproles should be fine for the matchup against the Redskins, and he remains a quality starting option in all leagues, especially PPR formats. Look for Sproles to again see a handful of carries and catches as he rotates with Mark Ingram and Pierre Thomas in New Orleans' explosive backfield.

8/30/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles doesn't dress for preseason finale

News: New Orleans running back Darren Sproles (knee) did not dress for the preseason finale at Tennessee Thursday, but should return for Week 1 against the Redskins. Sproles was expected to miss his team's final two preseason games and that is exactly how things played out for the Saints' highest-rated Fantasy running back. Sproles has seen an average draft position of 35.5 as the do-everything back looks to build off his 2011 when he totaled 1313 yards and nine touchdowns.

Analysis: Sproles injured his knee in the preseason opener and the Saints have done the smart thing with him ever since in keeping him out. The diminutive back, who amassed just six total yards in the preseason opener, has missed just two games in his six-year NFL career and the injury scare shouldn't worry Fantasy owners. He's a PPR superstar who should be taken in most Fantasy formats beginning in Round 4. Make sure he's ready to play Week 1 against the Redskins and then start him accordingly in all leagues and formats.

8/22/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles likely out until Week 1

News: The Times Picayune reports Saints running back Darren Sproles (knee) isn't expected to play in the team's final two preseason games. Despite practicing in a limited capacity the last two days, Saints interim coach Joe Vitt said Wednesday he is fine with Sproles not taking any game snaps until the regular season opener. "If I had to play, I could," Sproles said. "But this is the thing. They don't want to rush me right now. They see it as preseason games so there's no use in risking it."

Analysis: Sproles hasn't practiced fully since injuring his knee in the preseason opener against the Patriots. He said timing might be the only issue he has once he is back practicing in full, but he anticipates it will be a quick process once he returns. The diminutive back, who amassed just six total yards in the preseason opener, has missed just two games in his six-year NFL career and the injury scare shouldn't worry Fantasy owners. He remains worthy of a selection as a No. 2 Fantasy running back in most formats beginning in Round 4, with additional value in PPR formats.

8/20/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles bothered by knee issue

News: Saints interim coach Joe Vitt said Monday that running back Darren Sproles will not return to practice this week and is unlikely to play during Saturday's preseason game against Houston, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports. Sproles was held out of practice Monday, and reportedly could play through the issue if it were the regular season. He also did not suit up for last Friday's exhibition contest against Jacksonville.

Analysis: Well, this is an unexpected development. The normally durable Sproles will be handled with extreme caution for the duration of the preseason in order to prevent further injury, especially after his dynamic 2011 campaign (2,696 all-purpose year). But it appears the issue is not a major concern as Vitt said Sproles could play if the game counted. The diminutive back, who amassed just six total yards in the preseason opener, has missed just two games in his six-year NFL career and the injury scare shouldn't worry Fantasy owners. He remains worthy of a selection as a No. 2 Fantasy running back in most formats beginning in Round 4, with additional value in PPR formats.

6/4/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles wants to improve as a runner

News: After totaling 2,696 all-purpose yards last season (1,313 from scrimmage), Saints speedster Darren Sproles says he wants to improve on his rushing skills. Last season Sproles had 87 carries for 603 yards (a career-best 6.9 rushing average) with two scores, but apparently he only ran on specific plays. "It's like, my role was to come in and catch passes," he told the New Orleans Times-Picayune. "What I need to work on is more running the ball, like the hard-nosed runners. I only had certain types of runs, and I want to go in and run power (plays) sometimes. That will keep the defense honest."

Analysis: Running between the tackles is something Sproles is going to have to do more of to keep him from being predictable. But the reality is that so long as he's on the field and in a position to make some plays, his speed and juke moves should keep him productive. We'd draft him as a No. 2 Fantasy running back in standard formats with a pick as soon as Round 4. In PPR formats the guy is a borderline No. 1 Fantasy rusher definitely worth a third-round pick. And it's not a bad move to pair him with another Saints running back (Thomas or Ingram in Rounds 7 through 10) just to lock up as much of that backfield as possible.

1/14/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles catches playoff record

News: New Orleans RB Darren Sproles tallied 15 receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Sproles' impressive catch total established an NFL playoff record as he collected 19 targets from QB Drew Brees. Sproles also had a 44-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter to give New Orleans its first lead of the game.

Analysis: Like many of the Saints' running backs, Sproles managed little on the ground and finished with 3 yards on three carries against the 49ers' top-ranked defense. Sproles was a dynamic fixture in New Orleans' offense during the regular season and was among the league leaders with 86 receptions for 710 yards and seven touchdowns -- as a running back. Fantasy owners should consider Sproles with an early-round selection in 2012 drafts as the 28-year-old could come close to duplicating his production from this season.

1/7/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles finds end zone twice

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles totaled 51 yards on the ground in Saturday's Wild Card win over the Lions. He found the end zone twice, his longest run going for 17 yards. He also caught four passes for 34 yards for New Orleans.

Analysis: Sproles set the NFL's single-season all-purpose yards mark with 2,696 yards this year. He excelled in what was Reggie Bush's role in years' past. The Saints face the 49ers next weekend, a team that allowed less than 80 yards on the ground per contest during the regular season. San Francisco allowed just three rushing scores in 16 games. With this career year behind him, Fantasy owners should expect him to stay productive through the postseason and be worth trusting as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB in 2012. For now we see him as a pretty good fifth-round pick in standard leagues and a fourth-round pick in PPR formats.

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1/1/2012

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles sets all-purpose yards mark

News: With his 40 rush yards, 29 receiving yards and 54 kickoff return yards Sunday vs. the Panthers, RB Darren Sproles set the NFL's single-season all-purpose yards mark with 2,696 yards. Sproles added a receiving touchdown for good measure Sunday, giving him nine total on the season.

Analysis: Sproles was a true delight for Fantasy owners in 2011, picking up 603 rush yards and 710 receiving yards and serving as the most productive Saints running back. He did more than just replace Reggie Bush -- he redefined how the Saints used their small, speedy all-purpose back. With this career year behind him, Fantasy owners should expect him to stay productive through the postseason and be worth trusting as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB in 2012. For now we see him as a pretty good fifth-round pick in standard leagues and a fourth-round pick in PPR formats.

12/27/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles becomes part of history

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles had another outstanding performance on Monday night in the Week 16 win over the Falcons. Sproles, as usual, was all over the field for the Saints as well as he was apart of history. Sproles caught a 9-yard TD pass from QB Drew Brees late in the fourth quarter that gave Brees the all-time single-season yardage record. Brees overtook Dan Marino for the record as Sproles hauled in the pass through traffic in the end zone. Sproles rushed five times for 67 yards, added two catches for 22 yards and the TD and returned four kicks for 147 yards and an average of 36.8 yards per return.

Analysis: Sproles is one of the most dangerous pass-catching running backs in the NFL and he has consistently proven that down the stretch of the season. He hasn't rushed for a touchdown since Week 7, but he's consistently scored in double figures in Fantasy points. Sproles heads into Week 17's regular-season finale against Carolina in line for another solid performance. The Saints need to keep winning to gain a first-round bye in the playoffs, so Sproles should be at his best against a team he totaled 91 yards against Week 5. Sproles should be even more dangerous this time around and can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option for the finale against the Panthers. That said, if Mark Ingram returns from injury Week 17, it could lower his value slightly.

12/21/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles expected to do more vs. Falcons

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles totaled just 3 yards on six touches when he faced the Falcons earlier in the year and should be more productive in Week 16. Atlanta ranks fourth in the league in run defense, giving up under 97 yards per game, and 17th against the pass. The Falcons have allowed an average of 13 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.

Analysis: Sproles had his worst performance of the year his last time against the Falcons but has been rolling of late. He has gained 94 yards on 17 carries over his last three games with 17 catches for 183 yards and two touchdowns. He is a perfect fit for the Saints' pass-happy offense and should see a ton of touches on Monday night. Consider Sproles a No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 16.

12/18/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles continues to produce

News: New Orleans RB Darren Sproles totaled 112 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown during the Saints' 42-20 win at Minnesota in Week 15. Sproles had a season-high 79 receiving yards on five receptions and recorded his fifth touchdown catch of the season in the second quarter (13 yards). He finished with six total targets from QB Drew Brees. Sproles netted 33 yards for the second straight game on eight carries.

Analysis: Sproles also gained 120 total yards on special teams, including 75 yards on three kick returns, as he continues to be productive in all areas. The diminutive running back has been a key piece to the Saints' high-octane passing offense and is one catch shy of reaching 80 receptions. Fantasy owners should continue to consider him a No. 2 Fantasy RB, especially in PPR formats, heading into Week 16 against Atlanta on Monday.

12/14/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles does it all for Saints

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles could be without Mark Ingram once again Week 15 at Minnesota. That could have Sproles seeing more offensive snaps and he's been solid his last two games for New Orleans. Sproles is the only player in the NFL with at least two rushing touchdowns, at least two receiving touchdowns and a return touchdown on the year. The Vikings have been solid against opposing running backs on the year, however. That said, Willis McGahee of the Broncos rushed for 111 yards and a TD against the Vikings Week 13.

Analysis: Sproles had a solid all-around effort last week at Tennessee as he rushed five times for 33 yards and caught seven passes for 58. That said, Sproles has not scored an offensive touchdown in seven games on the road this season. Sproles has 20 Fantasy points the last two games and could be in for a nice contest against the Vikings if Ingram indeed misses the game. Without Ingram, Fantasy owners can consider Sproles a No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 15.

12/11/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has total effort

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles had a solid all-around game Sunday at Tennessee in Week 14. Sproles had five carries for 33 yards and seven catches for 58 yards. He now has no offensive touchdowns in seven road games this year.

Analysis: Sproles plays another road game in Week 15 at Minnesota, but he still remains a must-start Fantasy RB in all leagues. We consider Sproles a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB in standard formats, with his value slightly higher in PPR leagues.

12/9/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles struggling on road?

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles heads into Week 14 at Tennessee looking for a big game on the road, which hasn't happened often this year. Sproles hasn't scored an offensive touchdown in six road games this season, and he has just one game with double digits in Fantasy points in a standard league on the road. In his past three road games at Tampa Bay, St. Louis and Atlanta, Sproles has combined for 12 Fantasy points. He should be able to have success against the Titans, who have allowed nine total touchdowns to opposing running backs and nine to reach double digits in Fantasy points. In the past three games, Michael Turner, LeGarrette Blount and C.J. Spiller have combined for 286 rushing yards and two touchdowns and seven catches for 84 yards against Tennessee with each reaching double digits in Fantasy points.

Analysis: We're still backing Sproles even with his low production on the road. With Mark Ingram (toe) out, Sproles could see additional touches, and in the two games Ingram missed in Week 8 and Week 9 with a heel injury, Sproles combined for 22 Fantasy points. Consider Sproles a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB in all leagues, with his value slightly higher in PPR formats.

12/5/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles scores vs. Lions

News: Darren Sproles remained active on offense yet again for the Saints in Week 13 against the Lions. He carried the ball four times for 28 yards and also gained 46 yards on five catches with a touchdown in the 31-17 win. His fourth receiving score of the year came in the fourth quarter when Drew Brees found him from 6 yards out. He also totaled 86 yards on five returns. Sproles finished second on New Orleans in rushing behind Mark Ingram (54 yards).

Analysis: Sproles continues to contribute in both the running and passing game for New Orleans and now has seven total touchdowns on the year. His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield is rare for a Fantasy RB, and makes him even more valuable in PPR formats. When he does not carry the ball often like a true running back, the Saints give him ample touches on a weekly basis and love to get him work in space. He should be able to put up his usual yards next Sunday against the Titans so continue to view Sproles as no worse than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 14.

11/30/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles doing it all for Saints

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles enters Week 13 against the Lions as the only player in the NFL with two rushing, one receiving and a return touchdown. He has gained 97 yards on the ground over the last three games with 11 catches for 87 yards and a score over that span. Detroit ranks 23rd in the league in run defense, giving up over 127 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 14 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.

Analysis: Sproles has been one of the better pickups in the offseason for any team in the league as he fits the Saints' offense perfectly. He is better used in the passing game, with his unique skill set, and already has a career high in receptions (62). While the Lions rank sixth in the league in pass defense, they have allowed four touchdowns to opposing running backs thus far. Consider Sproles as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 13.

11/29/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles totals 82 yards in Week 12

News: After totaling just 3 yards his last time out, Saints RB Darren Sproles was more involved in the offense in Week 12 against the Giants. He gained 54 yards on eight carries and also caught two passes for 28 yards in the 49-24 win. He had a long run of 23 and averaged 6.8 yards per carry. Sproles, who returned two kicks for 62 yards, finished third on New Orleans in rushing behind Mark Ingram (80 yards) and Pierre Thomas (63 yards).

Analysis: Sproles saw more carries than receptions for the first time since Week 7 on Monday night and was able to do the most with his touches. While he was held out of the end zone for the second straight game, he remained active in both phases of offense and that should continue with his versatile abilities. His rushing numbers have been a bit lacking but his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield keeps him relevant in Fantasy, especially PPR formats. With the Lions up next on the schedule, consider Sproles as no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy RB.

11/22/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles seeing more in passing game

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles has seen just 12 carries over his last three games but has caught 15 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown over that span. New York enters Monday night ranked 21st in the league in run defense, giving up 123 yards per contest, and 21st against the pass. They have allowed an average of 17 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.

Analysis: Sproles has seen his carries diminish with a crowded backfield on New Orleans but he remains a solid option in the passing game. He ranks second in the NFC and third in the NFL with 60 receptions and leads the league in all-purpose yards with 1,604. He posted just 3 total yards his last time out so expect 28-year-old to get back on track on Monday night. Consider Sproles a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 12.

11/13/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles not needed as much Sunday

News: Entering Week 10, Saints RB Darren Sproles had been reliable as both a rusher and a receiver, never putting up less than 60 combined yards. But that changed Sunday at Atlanta. The diminutive back was hardly a factor on offense, rushing two times for 1 yard and catching four passes for 2. He was targeted six times in the contest.

Analysis: The Saints' ran only 16 times as a team against the defense that entered the game ranked seventh against the run, so you can understand why Sproles didn't contribute much on the ground. His lack of production through the air is a bit surprising, though, specially since QB Drew Brees threw for 322 yards. Considering Marques Colston (113 yards) and Jimmy Graham (82) both had big games, Brees obviously didn't have to rely on his underneath man as much as he normally does. Sproles hasn't fallen out of favor or anything like that. You had to figure he'd be the odd man out of a crowded offensive attack one of these days. The Saints have a bye in Week 11, but he remains worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy RB against the Giants in Week 12.

11/10/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to face tough run defense

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles, who is averaging 14.3 Fantasy points over his last three games thanks in part to matchups against the Colts and Rams, will have his work cut out for him Week 10 at Atlanta. The Falcons rank seventh against the run (and fourth since the beginning of October, allowing 87.2 yards per game during that stretch) and allow 13.0 Fantasy points per game to running backs, fourth-fewest in the NFL. Sproles might also have to contend with the return of fellow RB Mark Ingram, who has missed the last two games because of a heel injury.

Analysis: Of course, Sproles is kind of a unique case. He's as much a receiver as a running back and, therefore, has a reasonable chance of overcoming whatever matchup problems the Falcons may present. He has yet to provide fewer than 60 combined rushing and receiving yards in a game this season and is always a threat to break a long one. Keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy RB.

11/6/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles totals 99, TD on nine touches

News: Darren Sproles' explosive play was on display on Sunday vs. the Bucs. He caught five passes for 57 yards and a touchdown and added 42 yards on four carries. The touchdown catch-and-run was ridiculous -- he caught a screen from Drew Brees and was free of any Bucs defenders all the way to the end zone, literally in a three-yard bubble the entire time. He had another touchdown run called back because of a holding penalty on teammate Devery Henderson. Three of his nine touches went for 10-plus yards, and he also had the most work of any Saints running back with 26 snaps. Chris Ivory had 22, Pierre Thomas had 17 (snap counts include plays resulting in penalties).

Analysis: We love watching this guy play and so should his Fantasy owners. He'll have a heck of a time next week at the Falcons, who have become pretty good against the run as of late. Still, his potential for a long gain or long touchdown makes him worth starting. Consider him a No. 2 RB for Week 10.

11/3/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to make up for last week?

News: The Buccaneers head to the Superdome in Week 9 to take on the Saints, and it's a matchup perfect for Darren Sproles. Of course, we said that last week about Sproles' matchup at St. Louis and he disappointed. Sproles had his second-worst game of the season against the lowly Rams, totaling 76 yards on six carries and six catches. Of course, his worst game of the year was back in Week 6 against the Bucs in Tampa Bay when he was held to 16 yards on one rush attempt (what the heck?!) and 46 yards on eight receptions.

Analysis: With the Bucs yielding 142.7 rush yards per game over their last three with five rushing touchdowns given up over that same span it's impossible to sit Darren Sproles. You'd have to have some awesome running backs on your roster to go with over him, and if that's the case then you should consider trading him to help your roster. But assuming you're not loaded with amazing Fantasy running backs, if you have Sproles you should be prepared to start him and expect better numbers than what he delivered against these Bucs in Week 6.

10/30/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles a bigger factor through air

News: Even though he was facing the NFL's worst run defense -- one that gave up 253 yards to Cowboys rookie RB DeMarco Murray just last week -- Saints RB Darren Sproles was hardly a factor on the ground Week 8 at St. Louis, rushing six times for 16 yards. Instead, he contributed more as a receiver, catching six passes for 60 yards, his most since he had 75 receiving yards in Week 1. He was targeted seven times in the contest.

Analysis: Sproles is QB Drew Brees' preferred receiving option underneath and routinely catches 5-8 passes, but he doesn't always get big yardage, picking up only 19 through the air last week. Fantasy owners probably expected him to be more of a factor on the ground this week with Mark Ingram out, especially since he was coming off an 88-yard performance against the Colts last week. But the Saints fell behind early and had to spend much of the day passing. Sproles isn't a starter for the Saints, but he usually picks up enough combined yardage as a rusher and receiver to serve as a No. 2 Fantasy RB. Treat him as such Week 9 against the Buccaneers even though he had only 62 combined yards against them in Week 6.

10/28/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Ingram out paves the way for Sproles

News: Saints coach Sean Payton said Friday that RB Mark Ingram (heel) has been ruled out for Week 8 at St. Louis. Pierre Thomas and Darren Sproles will now pace the rushing attack, while Chris Ivory will be taken off the PUP list to provide depth at RB.

Analysis: Ingram owners are upset he will be out, but Sproles owners are loving it because this is a very favorable matchup for the veteran RB. He will face a Rams defense that ranks dead last against the run, allowing a whopping 183.8 yards per game. Not surprisingly, the Rams have surrendered the most Fantasy points per game to running backs this season. For the record, they've allowed the second-most Fantasy points to wide receivers as well. Sproles won't have to pace the rushing attack by himself, but he should see more reps with Ingram out. For a favorable matchup like this one, he's nothing short of a must-start option in Fantasy.

10/27/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles likely to keep it going

News: For only the third time this season, Saints RB Darren Sproles was a bigger factor on the ground than in the air Week 7 against the Colts, picking up 88 yards on 12 carries compared to 19 yards on six catches. He might repeat the feat on the road in Week 8 against a Rams defense that ranks dead last against the run, allowing a whopping 183.8 yards per game. Not surprisingly, the Rams have surrendered the most Fantasy points per game to running backs this season. For the record, they've allowed the second-most Fantasy points to wide receivers.

Analysis: The Saints also have Mark Ingram and Pierre Thomas, so Sproles is no guarantee to pick up a bunch of yards on the ground despite the favorable matchup. But even if he doesn't, he's sure to make up for it with his yards through the air. He has emerged as QB Drew Brees' preferred receiving option underneath this year, meaning he's sure to play a major role on offense in one capacity or another every week. For a favorable matchup like this one, he's nothing short of a must-start option in Fantasy.

10/23/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles a jack of all trades

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles was just as effective in the running game as he was in the passing in Week 7 against the Colts. He carried the ball 12 times for 88 yards and a touchdown and also had six catches for 19 yards and another score in the 62-7 win. His first score came on a 6-yard pass from QB Drew Brees in the first quarter before he ran one in from 16 yards out in the fourth. Sproles also totaled 83 yards on six returns in the victory.

Analysis: Sproles is having a career campaign in his first season with the Saints and has been a perfect compliment to Brees thus far. His ability to make plays in space is his greatest asset, along with his versatility both running and catching the ball. While he sometimes gets overshadowed by all of the talent in New Orleans, he will continue to see touches and should be able to add to his four total touchdowns. He could be in for similar success in Week 8 against the Rams so continue to roll with Sproles as no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy RB.

10/20/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has good history vs. Colts

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles has had success in the past against his Week 7 opponent -- the Colts. He has five career touchdowns agianst Indianapolis form his days in San Diego. The Colts enter Sunday ranked 30th in the league against the run, giving up over 136 yards per game, and rank 18th in pass defense.

Analysis: The Colts have allowed an average of 20.3 Fantasy points to opposing running backs thus far so Sproles should be in for another productive performance on Sunday. He remains just as potent in the passing game as he does running the ball, and can be a game-changer on special teams. Since he sees plenty of touches on offense, consider Sproles a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 7.

10/16/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles nets 62 yards in Week 6

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles was fairly productive in Week 6 against the Buccaneers. Sproles finished with a combined 62 yards on nine total touches in the 26-20 defeat, but did most of his damage as a receiver. He finished with a team-high eight receptions for 46 yards in the contest and had a long of 11 yards. Sproles also ran the ball one time for 16 yards, but was once again unable to find the end zone. He averaged 6.8 yards every time he touched the ball.

Analysis: Sproles actually turned in one of his least productive games from a yardage standpoint, but still totaled over 62 total yards for the Saints. While he does continue to see a handful of carries a game, the 28-year-old has been much more of a weapon as a receiver rather than a running back. As long as he sees around 10-15 touches per contest, Sproles should be able to do some damage, especially in the passing game. Consider him no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option heading into next Sunday against the Colts.

10/14/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles rises quick with Saints

News: New Orleans RB Darren Sproles has been one of the best free-agent additions this season and is one of the main reasons for the Saints' current four-game winning streak. Sproles is the only player in the NFL with a rushing, receiving and return touchdown this season. He is ranked fifth in the league with 31 receptions, including 13 catches on third down, which is tied for the most in the NFL. New Orleans visits Tampa Bay in Week 6.

Analysis: Sproles' activity in the passing games has greatly benefited the Saints this season. The diminutive back and TE Jimmy Graham (63) have generated almost as many catches than the team's top wide receivers (Marques Colston, Robert Meachem, Lance Moore and Devery Henderson) combined (65). The Buccaneers are allowing an average of 17.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this year and gave up two rushing scores to San Francisco in Week 5. Consider Sproles a quality No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 6.

10/9/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles totals 91 yards Week 5

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles rushed for a team-high 51 yards on 11 carries in Week 5 against the Panthers. His longest carry went 23 yards. He also totaled 40 yards on five catches. However, Sproles did not find the end zone.

Analysis: A touchdown would have made Sproles' day even better, but nine Fantasy points (standard formats) from someone who is usually a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option is pretty good. Sproles is a big part of the Saints offense and gets a fair amount of touches per week. Continue to view him as no worse than a No. 3 RB or flex option for Week 6 against the Bucs.

10/6/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles 'a rare talent'

News: QB Drew Brees must have known RB Darren Sproles would bring such an impact to the Saints. Brees said he nudged coach Sean Payton as soon as Brees was back in camp to tell him to go after Sproles. Brees and Sproles worked out together all offseason in San Diego with the same trainer, and so Brees said he pestered Sproles daily to come to New Orleans. "Did I think Sproles would be the player now when he first came in? I don't know," Brees said. "I don't think any of us could have expected it. He's just a rare talent, not just physically but his mental makeup."

Analysis: Sproles has been one of the best free-agent pickups of the offseason. He is averaging 8.9 yards per carry and has 224 receiving yards through three games. He also leads the NFL with 11 catches on third down and is making an impact on special teams. His touches are still not what a No. 1 RB would get because the Saints have so many weapons on offense, but Sproles does a lot with 10-15 touches per game. Consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 5 against the Panthers, who are allowing RBs to average 22 Fantasy points per week, which is fifth highest in the NFL.

10/2/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles rushes for 75 yards

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles rushed for a team-high 75 yards on seven carries in Week 4 against the Jaguars. Sproles longest rush went for 34 yards. Sproles added 56 receiving yards on five catches. He was targeted seven times. Unfortunately, he didn't find the end zone.

Analysis: Sproles actually almost had two touchdowns in Week 4, but both times he was stopped at the 1-yard line. Regardless, he is absolutely thriving in his first year with the Saints and is worth a look as a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option heading into Week 5 against the Panthers.

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9/28/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles yet to disappoint with Saints

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles has scored a touchdown in each of his first three games with New Orleans and aims to extend that streak in Week 4 against the Jaguars. Sproles has scored on a punt return, run and reception through three games. The Jaguars, however, present a challenge since they have allowed just one rushing touchdown and no receiving scores to RBs in 2011. RBs are averaging 3.0 yards per carry and 11 Fantasy points per week against Jacksonville, which is tied for third lowest in the NFL.

Analysis: You can really make the argument that Sproles might be the best free-agent signing of the offseason. He has really taken to the hybrid RB/WR/PR role that Reggie Bush once manned for New Orleans and probably is doing a better job. Sproles does most of his damage as a receiver, but he still gets one point for every 10 yards, so as long he produces, then we have no complaints. Consider Sproles a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option for Week 4.

9/25/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles does damage on ground

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles, who was mostly a factor in the passing game in Weeks 1 and 2, still caught six passes for 50 yards Week 3 against the Texans, but his biggest moment came as a pure runner. He took a toss in the second quarter and darted 30 yards through the defense for a score, his second offensive touchdown of the season. He finished with two carries for 35 yards.

Analysis: Sproles was still more of a receiver than a running back in Week 3, tying for the team lead with nine targets, but he proved he's capable out of the backfield as well. He managed to succeed Sunday even though WR Lance Moore, the team's top target underneath last season, rebounded from a ground injury with nine catches for 88 yards. Because we now have some reason to believe that Sproles and Moore can coexist in the Saints offense, Sproles is still worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy RB at Jacksonville in Week 4.

9/22/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles trying to fend off Moore

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles, who remains the team's go-to running back back in nickel and "lightning" packages because of his receiving ability, will be in for a different kind of test against the Texans in Week 3. The Texans rank first against the pass, allowing 162.5 yards per game, but have struggled against the run, allowing 4.9 yards per carry. The Saints primarily use Mark Ingram and Pierre Thomas in running situations.

Analysis: Of course, the Texans rank first against the pass partially because they were facing the Colts and Dolphins in Weeks 1 and 2, so perhaps you shouldn't read too much into it. Sproles, who came over from the Chargers in the offseason, has handled the bulk of the underneath routes so far this season, catching at least seven passes in each of his first two games, but he might be in for some competition now that WR Lance Moore (groin) is back practicing in full and expected to play a bigger role in Week 3. He has often handled the Saints' underneath routes, so the distribution of passes between him and Sproles will be something to watch going forward. Though Sproles has put up good numbers so far, you should treat him as a No. 3 Fantasy RB until his exact usage becomes better defined.

9/18/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has first TD with Saints

News: Saints RB Darren Sproles had the final score in a 30-13 win over the Bears in Week 2. Sproles scored on a 12-yard reception in the fourth quarter for his first touchdown with the Saints. He finished with eight catches for 43 yards and four rushes for 17 yards.

Analysis: For the second week in a row, Sproles was the Saints' best Fantasy RB and is proving to be quite the free-agent addition for New Orleans. Sproles is making most of his impact in the passing game as he already has 15 catches through two games. Consider Sproles a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option in Week 3 against the Texans. That could definitely be a shootout with the Texans.

9/15/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to 'fly' past Bears Week 2?

News: Bears LB Lance Briggs is showing Saints RB Darren Sproles proper respect heading into their Week 2 matchup. "He’s a fast guy with quick little feet," Briggs told the Chicago Tribune. "Reminds me of one of those old 'Scooby Doo’ cartoons. The guy can fly." Sproles made his Saints debut in Week 1 against the Packers, totaling 75 receiving yards on seven catches and 7 yards on two rushes.

Analysis: While Sproles is a running back by trade, he is more effective in the passing game than the ground game. New Orleans will let Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram get most of the carries out of the backfield, while Sproles replaces Reggie Bush as the pass-catching option in the slot. The Saints are down WR Marques Colston for the next four weeks due to a broken collarbone, so this should mean Sproles remains an effective part of the passing game. Consider Sproles a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option for Week 2.

9/9/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles special in Saints debut

News: New Orleans RB Darren Sproles racked up 92 yards, including a 72-yard touchdown, on a pair of punt returns during the Saints' 42-34 Week 1 loss at Green Bay on Thursday night. It was the first punt return touchdown by a New Orleans player since Reggie Bush took one back against Minnesota in 2008. Sproles, who was signed during the offseason to replace Bush in a versatile role, also caught seven passes for 75 yards.

Analysis: Sproles certainly did his best to make the Saints -- and scorned Fantasy owners -- forget about Bush as he effectively dodged tacklers on his returns. The diminutive runner also gained 76 yards on a pair of kickoff returns as he relished a special-teams role with his new team. Sproles tied for the team lead with nine targets from QB Drew Brees and could be in line for a productive season if he can stay healthy. He likely won't receive many carries in the rushing game, but Fantasy owners should view him as a quality flex option in Week 2 against Chicago.

9/7/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles part of 'three-headed monster'

News: Despite the presence of returning RB Pierre Thomas and first-round draft pick RB Mark Ingram, New Orleans RB Darren Sproles is expected to be utilized often in the Saints' potent offense this season. The Saints face Green Bay in their Week 1 matchup on Thursday night. Packers DL Ryan Pickett said he expects the Saints to use Sproles in space, much as they did with Reggie Bush, who was traded to Miami.

Analysis: The diminutive Sproles offers a nice compliment to the other bigger backs and helped New Orleans average 4.1 yards per carry during the preseason. Thomas is calling his partnership with Sproles and Ingram a "three-headed monster." "There'll be plenty of touches not only for Pierre, but for Mark and Darren," Saints coach Sean Payton said. Fantasy owners should view Sproles as a decent flex option in most formats.

8/17/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles displaying his speed

News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune examined the running backs for the Saints, and had glowing reviews for all three top backs in Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas and Darren Sproles. Of Ingram, the paper reports that the rookie "has flashed a combination of power, elusiveness and breakaway speed - and more than anything, a knack for making his way through traffic." The paper projects that "Ingram looks capable of 1,000 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns." As for Sproles, he replaces Reggie Bush as the "change of pace" back. The paper says "he has displayed terrific speed, racing past ends and linebackers around the corner on sweeps and swing passes." And Thomas, even though he has become the forgotten player, "he is also running with some authority again after having offseason ankle surgery. Thomas still is capable of being a go-to tailback when needed, with the ability to make big plays in the screen game as well. He'll continue to be heavily involved in this offense."

Analysis: Sproles has plenty of potential in leagues where receptions count, but he won't get a lot of carries with Ingram and Thomas healthy. Don't draft Sproles in the majority of standard formats, but he is worth taking with a mid- to late-round selection in PPR formats.

7/29/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles officially a Saint

News: The Saints officially signed free agent RB Darren Sproles on Friday, as reported on Thursday after the trade of Reggie Bush. The four-year deal is worth about $14 million, and the speedster is excited about his new team. In an email to The Associated Press, Sproles says he's a Saint now and "can't wait to get started."

Analysis: Sproles will virtually take the place of Bush, though the skill-set is not identical to the former No. 2 overall pick. Sproles is the better blocker between the two and he has shown willingness to cover kicks and punts in his career while still occupying the starting returner job as well as change-of-pace role. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how the team handles the RB situation with rookie Mark Ingram and the now-healthy Pierre Thomas expected to handle the bulk of the load in front of the undersized speedster. Sproles can be useful as a reserve Fantasy RB in PPR leagues especially, worth a late-round pick in deeper leagues as well.

7/28/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Report: Sproles replacing Bush in NO

News: On the same day the the Saints traded away Reggie Bush to Miami, Fox Sports reported Thursday that the team reached an agreement with RB Darren Sproles. The four-year deal was reportedly worth $14 million, with $6 million in guaranteed money. "The skill set that Reggie had was certainly unique. Darren may have a comparable skill set. That would be a pretty good comparison," Saints Coach Sean Payton told the New Orleans Times-Picayune before the deal was done. "I think (Sproles) is an exceptional talent. He is very versatile and dynamic."Sproles played in all 16 games last season with the Chargers and recorded 787 total yards offensively (520 receiving) with two touchdowns.

Analysis: Sproles has similar tools to that of Bush, with speed on the edge that can impact the running game, passing game and even the return game. He will likely be able to compete as the third-down back with a similar role to what he did in San Diego. Sproles is a more capable blocker than Bush in blitz-pickup scenarios and he can be just as dynamic on special teams. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how the team handles the RB situation with rookie Mark Ingram and the now-healthy Pierre Thomas expected to handle the bulk of the load in front of the undersized speedster. Sproles can be useful as a reserve Fantasy RB in PPR leagues especially, worth a late-round pick in deeper leagues as well.

7/26/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles likely leaving Chargers

News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that free agent RB Darren Sproles has likely played his last game for the Chargers. He is not expected to return in 2011, but he is expected to agree to terms elsewhere relatively quickly.

Analysis: Sproles has been rumored to Miami and St. Louis this offseason, but other teams will likely jump in the mix for his services as a third-down back and special teams star. Keep an eye on where he lands, and Sproles can be useful as a reserve Fantasy RB in PPR leagues.

7/5/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Report: Sproles a fit with Rams?

News: Pro Football Weekly reports that Darren Sproles is on the Rams' radar, according to a source. Sproles is expected to test free agency when the offseason starts and would be a good fit in St. Louis as a change-of-pace back to Steven Jackson and as a special-teams returner.

Analysis: Sproles has also been linked to the Dolphins and a couple of other places, but not San Diego. He's likely to land with a team where he'll take on passing downs work and catch a bunch of passes. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB in PPR formats, worth a middle- to late-round pick there, and a good reserve rusher worth a late choice otherwise.

3/7/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Dolphins could look at Sproles

News: The Palm Beach Post predicts the Dolphins will take a look at free agent RB Darren Sproles this offseason. The Chargers are expected to part ways with Sproles in 2011. And the Dolphins could allow Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, both free agents, to also leave this summer.

Analysis: Sproles wouldn't be a primary option at RB for the Dolphins, but he could continue to be a third-down back, change of pace option and also work on special teams. Keep an eye on what happens with Sproles this offseason, but his Fantasy value is better suited for PPR leagues rather than standard formats. If he ends up in the right situation he would be worth a mid-round pick in the majority of leagues, but owners will likely look at him with a late-round selection on Draft Day.

1/3/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles not coming back to SD?

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who is a pending free agent, was not mentioned by coach Norv Turner when speaking about the running back position for next season. “I think we can have two runners,” Turner said as he addressed the qualities of RB Ryan Mathews and RB Mike Tolbert.

Analysis: Even if the Chargers don't want to bring Sproles back as a running back, it's not like they can't use him in the return game. Although, leaving San Diego might actually benefit Sproles' career, if he gets a chance to star in a backfield much like former Charger Michael Turner. Depending on where he lands for next season, keep Sproles in mind in the later rounds of 2011 Fantasy drafts.

1/2/2011

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles adds energy

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles totaled 69 yards from scrimmage to help the Chargers earn a 33-28 victory over Denver in Week 17. Sproles rushed for 43 yards on four carries -- his second-highest total of the season and most in his last three games. The diminutive running back also contributed two receptions for 26 yards to post his best yards per reception average (13.0) since Week 2 (15.8). With RB Ryan Mathews turning in his best performance of the season, Sproles was utilized only on long-yardage situations and targeted just twice in the passing game.

Analysis: Sproles is an unrestricted free agent after this season and his future with the Chargers is uncertain. Mathews shook off persistent injuries and rushed for a career-high three touchdowns to provide San Diego a glimpse of his future potential. Chargers RB Mike Tolbert is also a free agent but the team will likely sign just one of the two. Sproles is a shifty ball-carrier and one of the fastest players in the league but failed to score a rushing touchdown this season for the first time since his rookie year. Depending on where he lands for next season, keep Sproles in mind in the later rounds of 2011 Fantasy drafts.

12/30/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

More work for RB?

News: With starting RB Mike Tolbert likely out for the season, San Diego RB Darren Sproles could receive some added carries in the Chargers' Week 17 game at Denver on Sunday. Sproles will not start the game but he could offer a nice change-of-pace back for San Diego, which will use rookie RB Ryan Mathews as its primary ball-carrier. Sproles has had more success in the passing game this season and has recorded more receiving yards than rushing yards in 11 of the Chargers' 15 games. He has registered 57 catches for 494 yards and just 224 rushing yards on 46 attempts.

Analysis: Sproles actually leads San Diego in receptions this season and has totaled 18 catches in his last three games. He provides a quick outlet for QB Philip Rivers to dump off a pass and is extremely elusive in between the tackles. With the the lumbering Tolbert collecting the goal-line carries among the two, Sproles has not tallied a rushing touchdown this season but does have two receiving scores. The Broncos are allowing the most Fantasy points (26.4) per game to running backs this season, making Sproles a strong No. 4 Fantasy RB or flex option, particularly in PPR leagues.

12/26/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles gets a chance

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles got a chance to showcase his skills in Week 16 in Cincinnati. That chance came after RB Mike Tolbert left with a shoulder and neck injury in the first quarter. Sproles would carry the ball three times for 8 yards. He would also be targeted a team-high 10 times, catching eight passes for 55 yards. Most of his receptions came on screens as he was Philip Rivers' safety valve -- mainly because it was so windy in Cincinnati.

Analysis: Sproles is more of a special teamer for the Chargers as he's behind Tolbert and rookie Ryan Mathews on the depth chart. The Chargers are out of the playoffs, so Sproles may get more touches in Week 17 against the Broncos. On most football Sunday's Sproles is nothing more than a No. 4 RB option in most Fantasy leagues.

12/22/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles waiting for opportunity

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles can be effective for the Chargers, when given a chance. Right now he's the No. 3 running back on the depth chart and seeing limited action. Over his last five games, Sproles has 17 carries for 85 yards. Both Mike Tolbert and Ryan Mathews had 17 carries in the team's last game. In Week 16 the Chargers face the Bengals, a team that have been allowing 120 rushing yards per contest. That comes out to 17 Fantasy points to opposing team's running back each game.

Analysis: Sproles has faced the Bengals once in his career, and that too was as a backup running back. He had 11 rushing and 22 receiving yards in that game. The biggest thing that could make Sproles' Fantasy value go up is Mathews. The rookie is dealing with an illness right now and is listed as questionable for Week 16. If he can't go, then Sproles should see more action. But for now, Fantasy owners should view Sproles as a No. 4 RB option.

12/17/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles chips in Thursday

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles was again the No. 3 RB in the Week 15 game against the 49ers, and he again received touches in that order. As usual, he was an effective receiver out of the backfield, catching five passes for 30 yards on six targets from QB Philip Rivers. However, Sproles was a non-factor on the ground after carrying the ball twice for just 1 total yard.

Analysis: Sproles was not able to break many tackles in the passing game but he fit into his usual tight spaces on his way to another solid receiving effort. He has now hauled in at least four passes in seven of the team's 14 games. On the ground, he has yet to carry the ball more than six times this season. In Week 16 against the Bengals, we expect more of the same from the speedy back. Expect him to get his share of screens and dump-offs along with the occasional draw-play. Consider him to be a low-end Fantasy option heading into that mathcup, especially with the RBs ahead of him in the packing order -- Mike Tolbert and Ryan Mathews -- relatively healthy.

12/15/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles displays resiliency

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles effectively bounced back from a concussion he suffered a week earlier to post one of his best games of the season last Sunday. Now the diminutive running back is poised to contribute again in the Chargers' Week 15 game against San Francisco on Thursday night. Sproles, who was a limited participant in practice last week while recovering from the injury, did not appear on the San Diego injury report all week leading up to Thursday. “He’s probably the toughest competitor on our team,” Chargers RB Mike Tolbert said after Sunday's game. Sproles, who matched a season high with 11 touches against Kansas City in Week 14, tallied 104 yards from scrimmage in the game -- out-gaining the entire Chiefs team by himself (67 total yards).

Analysis: Sproles is part of a re-energized San Diego rushing attack that has helped the team win five of its last six games. The Chargers are averaging 122.8 rushing yards per game in that span behind a talented backfield of Sproles, Mike Tolbert and Ryan Mathews. The speedy Sproles also offers San Diego a solid receiving option and paces the RB trio with 44 receptions and 409 yards. His catching ability could prove valuable against a 49ers defense that hasn't allowed a 100-yard rusher in 19 straight games, the second longest active streak in the NFL (Jets, 20). San Francisco is also surrendering just 15.8 Fantasy points per game, ranked 10th in the NFL. Sproles should be considered as a No. 4 Fantasy RB or a decent flex play in Week 15, with added value in PPR leagues.

12/12/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles rolls in win

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles had one of his best games of the season in Week 14, finishing with more than 100 yards from scrimmage as the Chargers routed the Chiefs, 31-0, on Sunday. Sproles, who was questionable for game while recovering from a concussion he sustained in Week 13, rushed six times for 53 yards and also caught five passes for 51 yards. It was only his second 100-yard performance of the season and first since Week 2 against Jacksonville (100). Sproles, who shared carries with Mike Tolbert (16) and Ryan Mathews (16), also eclipsed his previous season high rushing total of 41 yards.

Analysis: Not a bad outing from a player who was limited in practice leading up to Week 14. Sproles was a valuable part of the Chargers' offense and notched his second five-catch game in his last four outings. As long as he remains healthy, his crafty speed and elusiveness will keep him on the field but he will not get many scoring opportunities. With Tolbert and Mathews running well and Vincent Jackson and Malcom Floyd posing as threats on the outside, Sproles will likely remain as a safety net for quarterback Philip Rivers. His Fantasy value is marginal in leagues other than PPR formats heading into the Chargers' Week 15 matchup against San Francisco.

12/12/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles active for Week 14

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles (concussion) is active for the Chargers' Week 14 game against Kansas City. Sproles was limited in practice this past week as he recovers from a concussion he sustained following a helmet-to-helmet hit against Oakland in Week 13. He was initially listed as questionable on the injury report.

Analysis: Sproles, who has rushed for 162 yards on 35 carries this season, has taken a backseat to Mike Tolbert in San Diego's backfield. He could be used as a change-of-pace back for Sunday's game, and might see more targets with tight end Antonio Gates inactive. Still he is a marginal Fantasy play in Week 14 but holds added value in PPR leagues.

12/10/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Chargers list Sproles as questionable

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles (concussion) was limited in practice for the second day in a row Friday as the Chargers prepared to battle Kansas City in Week 14. Sproles, who missed Wednesday's practice entirely, took a helmet-to-helmet hit from Oakland LB Rolando McClain in Week 13 and sustained a concussion. He's listed as questionable for the upcoming matchup but head coach Norv Turner was optimistic that Sproles could play. “Darren is getting better everyday,” he said. “We will see where it is at, at the end of the week.”

Analysis: Sproles' appearance on the practice field late this week is encouraging for the Chargers and Fantasy owners. He hasn't produced much rushing the ball this season (162 yards on 35 attempts) as RB Mike Tolbert has assumed the lead role. Sproles has contributed to the passing game throughout the season and has a catch in every game but one. With uncertainty clouding his health status, consider Sproles a No. 4 Fantasy RB in PPR leagues against the Chiefs, who are allowing 17.4 Fantasy points per game to running backs this season.

12/9/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles limited in practice

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles (concussion) was limited in practice Thursday as the Chargers prepared to battle Kansas City in Week 14. Sproles, who missed Wednesday's practice entirely, took a helmet-to-helmet hit from Oakland LB Rolando McClain in Week 13 and sustained a concussion. On Wednesday, San Diego coach Norv Turner was optimistic that Sproles could play Sunday. “Darren is getting better everyday,” he said. “We will see where it is at, at the end of the week.”

Analysis: Sproles' appearance on the practice field Thursday is encouraging for the Chargers and Fantasy owners. He hasn't produced much rushing the ball this season (162 yards on 35 attempts) as RB Mike Tolbert has assumed the lead role. Sproles has contributed to the passing game throughout the season and has a catch in every game but one. With uncertainty clouding his health status, consider Sproles a No. 4 Fantasy RB against the Chiefs, who are allowing 17.4 Fantasy points per game to running backs this season.

12/8/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles misses practice

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles (concussion) did not participate in practice Wednesday as the Chargers prepared to face Kansas City in Week 14. Sproles, who was shaken up after taking a helmet-to-helmet hit from Oakland LB Rolando McClain in Week 13, has 162 yards on 35 carries this season in the Chargers' underachieving running game. San Diego coach Norv Turner remained optimistic Wednesday that Sproles could play on Sunday. “Darren is getting better everyday,” he said. “We will see where it is at, at the end of the week.”

Analysis: Prior to the hit that forced him out of Week 13, most of Sproles' production was coming on the receiving end as a safety net for quarterback Philip Rivers. In his last three games, the diminutive running back has 10 receptions 91 yards and a touchdown. Running the ball, Sproles has taken a backseat to Mike Tolbert and recorded just nine carries for 31 yards in the same span. With the uncertainly of his health, consider Sproles merely a No. 4 Fantasy RB against the Chiefs, who are allowing 17.4 Fantasy points per game to running backs this season.

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12/6/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles could play in Week 14

News: Chargers coach Norv Turner said on Monday that he is optimistic that RB Darren Sproles, who suffered a concussion against the Raiders on Sunday, will be able to play against the Chiefs in Week 14. "(Sproles) felt pretty good today," Turner said. "He will go through the process of getting cleared (to play)." Sproles had 7 yards receiving and lost a fumble on a punt return in the Week 13 loss.

Analysis: Sproles took a helmet-to-helmet hit from LB Rolando McClain in Week 13 and walked off slowly after he was able to get up. He appeared to absorb the brunt of the collision with his helmet and left shoulder, and suffered a concussion as a result. Fantasy owners should stay tuned to see if the 27-year-old will be able to play in Week 14. When the division rivals met earlier in the year, Sproles had just 3 yards rushing and 2 yards receiving. Sproles is a viable Fantasy option in deeper leagues for his all-around production, when healthy.

12/5/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles laid out on big hit

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles left Week 13 against the Raiders in the second quarter after suffering a concussion. With less than a minute left to play in the first half, Sproles caught a pass from QB Philip Rivers but was hit hard by LB Rolando McClain before being able to turn upfield. He stayed on the ground for a few minutes while trainers and teammates looked on. He was able to walk off under his own power and went to the locker room. Sproles had one catch for 7 yards and fumbled a punt return before being forced from the game. He was not expected to return.

Analysis: Sproles took a huge hit from McClain on Sunday and walked off slowly after he was able to get up. He appeared to absorb the brunt of the collision with his helmet and left shoulder, and suffered a concussion as a result. Fantasy owners should stay tuned to see how long the 27-year-old is expected to miss. Sproles is a viable Fantasy option in deeper leagues for his all-around production, when healthy.

12/2/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to see more touches vs. Raiders?

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles has only rushed for 34 yards in his last three outings but could see more touches in Week 13 against the Raiders. With RBs Mike Tolbert (hand) and Ryan Mathews (ankle) banged up, San Diego might rely on the 27-year-old against Oakland and their 28th-ranked run defense. In eight career games against the division foe, Sproles has not averaged much yardage but has three total touchdowns.

Analysis: Sproles had just 1 yard rushing and 32 yards receiving when he played Oakland in Week 5 but he should be in for a bigger game on Sunday. While it is expected that Tolbert will play in Week 13, Mathews could be out again for San Diego. The Raiders are giving up an average of 20.7 Fantasy points to opposing running backs so far this season, to go allowing with their low-ranked rush defense. Considering the matchup and the fact that he should see an improved role, use Sproles as a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy RB in Week 13.

11/29/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles sees eight touches

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles continues to be a small thorn in the side of the Colts in the Week 12 meeting. Sproles had four carries for 17 yards, caught four passes for 24 yards, two punt returns for a 9.5 yard average and three kickoff returns for a 29.7 yard average.

Analysis: The Chargers leaned heavily on Mike Tolbert, who carried the ball 26 times on Sunday night. They played keep-away from Colts QB Peyton Manning and it worked as they held the ball for nearly 36 minutes. Sproles was strictly the change-of-pace option to compliment Tolbert, but he was so effective that Sproles received just eight touches. In Week 13, the Raiders come to San Diego. When the team met in Week 5, Sproles totaled 33 yards on just five touches. However, that game featured a healthy Ryan Mathews and he missed Sunday night's contest with an ankle issue. If he misses next week as well, we like Sproles as a No. 3 Fantasy RB heading into that matchup.

11/28/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Inactive RB good news for Sproles

News: With Chargers RB Ryan Mathews (ankle) being ruled inactive for Week 12 against the Colts that means RB Darren Sproles will once again see touches out of the backfield for San Diego. Mike Tolbert is expected to start, but Sproles had five carries for 14 yards and five catches for 60 yards in Week 11 when Mathews was out.

Analysis: The Chargers will probably try to spring Sproles on a screen passes, with Tolbert seeing the majority of carries out of the backfield. The Colts do have a suspect rush defense, but we don't view Sproles as much more than a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option for Week 12.

11/27/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles looks for repeat effort

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles will again be the second RB in the pecking order -- in all likelihood -- for the Week 12 game against the Colts. RB Ryan Mathews is listed as doubtful with his ongoing ankle issues. Sproles has been at his best against the Colts, no matter how he gets his hands on the ball. He has four total touchdowns in four career games against Indianapolis, two on the ground and two on returns.

Analysis: Last week in a similar role, Sproles led the Chargers in receiving, and spelled Mike Tolbert while producing 74 yards (60 receiving) and a long TD catch. If he can get his hands on the ball as many times on Sunday night, he could again gash the Colts for big plays. Indy has a very vulnerable run defense that ranks near the bottom of the NFL. We expect him to do some damage against the Colts, so consider him to be a solid No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option in Week 12.

11/23/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles scores long TD in Week 12

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles could not find much room to run on the ground in Week 11 against the Broncos but he was able to make some big plays in the passing game. He capped off a 72-yard touchdown drive to start the second half with a 57-yard catch and run from Philip Rivers. He also carried the ball five times for 14 yards in the 35-14 win. Sproles led San Diego with five receptions, gaining 60 yards, and returned five punts for 36 yards with another 50 on two kick returns.

Analysis: Sproles saw an improved role in Week 11 with Ryan Mathews (ankle) inactive and made the most of his opportunities. While he has not done a whole lot on the ground this season, his play-making abilities have shined through in the passing game and on special teams. Monday night's score marked just his second of the year and first since Week 8. Fantasy owners should monitor the health of Mathews over the next week to see if he will be able to return for San Diego's next game against the Colts. Sproles remains mostly a flex option in larger formats but could seen an increase in value if Mathews is out again against Indianapolis' 30th ranked run defense.

11/19/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to receive more touches?

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles has been little-used over the past few games but could see an improved role in Week 11 against the Broncos as Ryan Mathews hasn't practiced at all this week due to an ankle injury. Denver enters Monday night's matchup ranked 30th in the league against the run, allowing 143 yards per game, and have given up an average of 23.4 Fantasy points to opposing running backs. If Mathews is unable to go, Sproles will likely split carries with Mike Tolbert.

Analysis: Sproles has carried the ball just 26 times for 131 yards so far this season but has been a greater threat in the passing game and on special teams. His 29 receptions for 267 yards and a touchdown givens him an advantage on passing downs and his speed allows him to make plays out of the backfield. He will likely still be the No. 2 behind Tolbert if Mathews is unable to go but that still adds a boost to his value. Fantasy owners should continue to keep an eye on the running back situation in San Diego as it should become more clear over the weekend. Consider starting Sproles as a No. 4 Fantasy RB or flex option in Week 11 against the Broncos if Mathews is inactive or limited.

11/7/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles does little in Week 9

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles wasn't very productive in his Week 9 matchup at Houston. Sproles only had one carry for 3 yards and one catch for 6 yards. He had two targets in the game. On special teams, Sproles had four kickoffs for 114 yards. Sproles came into the game with 13 catches in his past two outings.

Analysis: The Chargers didn't need to rely on Sproles, which was a surprise since Ryan Mathews (ankle) left the game before halftime and Antonio Gates (foot) was out. Sproles has been a good bye-week replacement for Fantasy owners, and he may have value in Week 11 against Denver following the bye in Week 10 if Mathews is out for an extended period of time. Keep an eye on what happens with Mathews, but Sproles would only be worth starting if Mathews is out against the Broncos. If Mathews is OK then Sproles should only be used in deep PPR formats or leagues that reward points for special teams.

11/4/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles catching on for Chargers

News: The Chargers head into Week 9 at Houston looking for help in their passing game since they are now without Buster Davis (ribs), who joins Malcom Floyd (hamstring), Legedu Naanee (hamstring) and Vincent Jackson (suspended) on the sidelines. Antonio Gates (foot) is also hurt, which leaves WR Patrick Crayton and RB Darren Sproles as the only reliable and healthy receiving options for QB Philip Rivers. Sproles has played well the past two weeks with 147 total yards with 13 catches and a touchdown, and he has a great matchup at Houston. The Texans have allowed seven touchdowns to opposing running backs with eight reaching at least eight Fantasy points in their past five games. Sproles will continue to share playing time with Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert, but Sproles is the one in the game on passing downs.

Analysis: Sproles should be considered a sleeper in leagues where receptions count. He had four catches for 36 yards and carried the ball four times for 41 yards last week against Tennessee, and he had a team-high nine receptions for 70 yards in Week 7 against New England. Mathews and Tolbert have more value than Sproles in standard formats, but Sproles can be a useful starting option in PPR leagues based on his involvement in the passing game.

10/31/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles scores first TD in Week 8

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles played his usual role in Week 8 against the Titans and found the end zone for the first time this season. He bowled over LB Will Witherspoon to finish off a 13-yard touchdown reception from QB Philip Rivers in the fourth quarter. He finished with four catches for 36 yards and carried the ball four times for 41 yards in the 33-25 win. Sproles also had six returns for 114 yards.

Analysis: Sproles, who is nickednamed "Mighty mouse," is listed at 5-6, 190 pounds but plays bigger than his stature. He has to fight for touches but is versatile enough to contribute in almost every category. It was nice to see him get his first touchdown of the year in Week 8 but playing behind RBs Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert definitely hinders his Fantasy value. Sproles can be viewed as a viable Fantasy RB in deeper formats and remains a solid contributor in leagues that reward return yards for Week 9 against the Texans.

10/28/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles finding a way to produce

News: RB Darren Sproles has fallen behind Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert on the depth chart in San Diego but has still found a way to produce in recent weeks. He will go up against a Titans defense in Week 8 that ranks 10th in the league against the run but 23rd against the pass. Sproles led the Chargers in receiving last week and has more yardage through the air than he does on the ground.

Analysis: Sproles has 150 yards receiving over the last three games as opposed to his 17 yards on the ground. Mathews and Tolbert continue to see the bulk of the carries but Sproles offers a great change of pace and can contribute in most facets of the game. He should be able to find some space catching passes out of the backfield on Sunday but owners in most leagues will want to keep him on the bench until his role improves. Sproles can be viewed as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option for Week 8 and remains a solid contributor in leagues that reward return yards.

10/25/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles leads Chargers in receiving

News: With Antonio Gates banged up and Malcom Floyd ruled inactive, Chargers RB Darren Sproles showed off his receiving skills in Week 7 against the Patriots. Sproles had a team-high nine receptions in the 23-20 victory and finished with 70 receiving yards. He also had 7 yards rushing on two attempts and finished with 148 return yards on five kickoffs and a punt return.

Analysis: Sproles had his best game to date on Sunday and was Philip Rivers safety valve on more than one occasion. While he is capable of having big games, Sproles has had trouble getting consistent touches this season, which have limited his Fantasy value. Unless Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert are injured or benched, it's tough to start Sproles in most standard leagues. We don't recommend starting him in Week 8 against Tennessee.

10/22/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles still searching for TD

News: The Patriots have allowed more receiving touchdowns (two) to running backs in 2010 than rushing (one) heading into Week 7. That could be good news for Chargers RB Darren Sproles. The six-year veteran has yet to score on offense this season, but he is averaging 10.3 yards per catch and 4.2 yards per carry.

Analysis: Even with LaDanian Tomlinson out of the picture, Sproles still is having trouble getting touches in San Diego. The Chargers like to lean on Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert out of the backfield. But Week 7 could be an interesting game for Sproles. The Chargers could be down some big receiving targets due to injury, so maybe QB Philip Rivers will dump the ball off to Sproles a bit more. It's still a big leap of faith for Fantasy owners, so if you have better alternatives, then consider using them over Sproles for Week 7.

10/17/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles makes modest impact

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles continued to make an impact on the passing game, hauling in five catches for 48 yards in a 20-17 loss to the Rams in Week 6. He ranked second on the team in both catches and receiving yards. However, Sproles carried the ball only one time for a nine-yard rushing gain. Over six games, Sproles has only 80 rushing yards, and he has neither a rushing nor a receiving touchdown this year.

Analysis: Sproles entered Week 6 ranking 12th among all running backs in receiving yards, but that alone is not enough to give Sproles significant Fantasy value. With TE Antonio Gates out for more than half the game with an ankle injury, Sproles had an opportunity to have a big day, but his production was still modest. Though he has some favorable matchups over the next three weeks, Sproles is no shoo-in to take advantage of the opportunity. Pass on him except in the deepest of leagues.

10/14/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has a shot to produce

News: Thanks to a lack of touches and a pair of fumbles, San Diego RB Darren Sproles has not been a factor in Fantasy so far this year. He has been averaging fewer than four carries per game and has only 71 rushing yards with no touchdowns after five weeks. However, Sproles ranks 12th among all running backs with 107 receiving yards, and in Week 6, he comes up against a Rams defense that has been generous to running backs involved in the passing game. St. Louis has allowed opposing running backs an average of 45.2 receiving yards each week, which is the 10th-highest average in the league.

Analysis: Sproles can't produce if he can't hold onto the ball, but at least he has a series of favorable matchups each week right through to the bye in Week 10. The Rams, along with the Patriots, Titans and Texans, rank among the league's worst teams in preventing passing yardage. This could be a good run for one of the league's more productive pass-receiving running backs. He is worth a flier in deeper leagues or may even be a player to consider for the flex slot in standard leagues over the next four weeks.

10/10/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles catches three passes

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles was once again used far more in the passing game than in the running game in the Week 5 loss to the Raiders. Sproles, who also returned kicks and punts, rushed twice for 1 yard. He caught three passes for 32 yards in the game and was targeted by QB Philip Rivers four times.

Analysis: Sproles carried six times in the Week 4 game but had fumbled in consecutive games leading to his two touches in the Week 5 contest. He's yet to score a touchdown of any kind this season. A random touchdown might be coming, but Fantasy owners cannot predict when that will happen. He is not a recommended Fantasy play for Week 6 at St. Louis.

10/5/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles fading into oblivion

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles has fumbled his way down the depth chart for the Chargers. After four weeks of the season, it seems clear that Sproles is the No. 3 back behind rookie Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert. Both Mathews and Tolbert scored touchdowns Week 4 against Arizona, while Sproles fumbled a ball that resulted in a Cardinals' score. That said, the Chargers play at Oakland Week 5 and the Raiders are allowing opposing running backs more Fantasy points than any other NFL team except Buffalo, with which they are tied.

Analysis: The Raiders have been ridiculously poor against the run this season. They kept the Rams to 75 yards and no touchdowns Week 2. In the Raiders' other three games they have given up an average of 179.3 yards per game on the ground with five touchdowns allowed. Texans RBs racked up 248 yards Week 4 with two touchdowns and Chris Johnson rushed for 142 yards and scored two touchdowns Week 1 against the Raiders' porous defense. Unfortunately, considering Sproles has just 17 carries for 73 yards and no scores with two fumbles on the season, with just seven catches for 75 yards to go with it, he's not really a recommended Fantasy play for Week 5 despite the fact he's facing Oakland. Sproles is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option.

10/3/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles fumbles in win

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles helped produce the only Cardinals touchdown in the Week 4 game when he fumbled after a hit by DB Greg Toler. DB Kerry Rhodes returned it 42 yards for Arizona's only touchdown of the game. Sproles carried the ball a total of six times for just 17 yards. He now has 70 rushing yards on the season on just 16 carries.

Analysis: It seems like the Chargers do not trust Sproles as much as they did a year ago. Although he still handles most of the return duties, he only has 16 carries through four games. At this point last season he had 37 carries. The reason for the decrease in touches could be RB Mike Tolbert, who played mostly FB last season. He has emerged as the compliment to starting RB Ryan Mathews this season and ran for 100 yards against Arizona. In Week 5, the Chargers play at Oakland, who are very generous on the ground to opposing RBs. They allowed the Texans to rush for 252 yards in Week 4. Consider Sproles to be a No. 4 RB or flex option at best in Week 5.

9/29/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles' role declining

News: Chargers RB Ryan Mathews said he expects to play Week 4 against the Cardinals. "I'm feeling good," Mathews said. "I went through all of the position drills like I usually do on a regular day, and I felt terrific." Mathews was inactive Sunday at Seattle in Week 3 due to the sprained ankle suffered in Week 2 against Jacksonville. He was replaced in the lineup against the Seahawks by Mike Tolbert and Darren Sproles. He was originally diagnosed with a high ankle sprain, but Mathews said the injury was not a serious as originally thought.

Analysis: The return of Ryan Mathews could limit Sproles' role in the offense even further. In Week 3, with Mathews inactive, he only managed 16 yards rushing on one carry and caught a pass for 10 yards. Tolbert carried the bulk of the load and Sproles finished with just two touches, though he was targeted four times in the passing game. Consider Sproles a low-end Fantasy RB for Week 4 against the Cardinals, who have given up the most rushing yards to opposing RBs in the NFL.

9/26/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles sees mostly ST duty

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles saw most of his action on special teams on Sunday in Week 3. He had one carry for 16 yards and had one catch for 10 yards (on four targets) in San Diego's loss to Seattle. He had 101 yards off kick returns and has been held out of the end zone for three straight weeks.

Analysis: With San Diego playing catchup for the majority of the game on Sunday, Sproles didn't get get many looks. That is surprising as Sproles normally excels with screen passes. With rookie Ryan Mathews out of action, Mike Tolbert got the bulk of the carries, leaving Sproles to his special teams play. After this performance it's confusing to see Sproles true role and identity with the team. Depending on how long Mathews is out will dictate Sproles' long-term value. As of right now he should be viewed as a flex option, even with the porous Arizona defense coming to town in Week 4.

9/23/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles could see more time

News: According to a report on NFL.com, the Chargers are planning to start RB Mike Tolbert on Sunday at Seattle with rookie Ryan Mathews dealing with a high ankle sprain. Mathews, who sprained his right ankle in Week 2 against the Jaguars, is unlikely to play, the report said Thursday. Tolbert is coming off a strong performance against the Jaguars with 82 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries. Mathews said Wednesday that he was optimistic about managing the injury. "I don't think it's that bad," Matthews said. "I've had a high ankle before, a while ago. It's not as bad. But they're going to do what they need to do to take precautionary measures to make sure something that could be a week, if I don't treat it right, could turn into six weeks." It sounds as though the Chargers are going to be cautious with Mathews and lean on Tolbert and Darren Sproles against Seattle.

Analysis: The injury to Mathews could open the door for Sproles to have more playing time in Week 3 against Seattle. Sproles totaled 100 yards -- 37 yards on the ground and 63 yards receiving -- on nine touches (five carries and four catches) in Week 2 against Jacksonville and should see a boost in value if Mathews is out for an extended period of time. Tolbert would benefit the most with Mathews' injury, but Sproles could be a solid flex option in PPR leagues if Mathews doesn't play as expected.

9/20/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles totals 100 yards

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles saw plenty of action on Sunday against the Jaguars as starting running back Ryan Mathews was injured in the first half. Sproles totaled 100 yards -- 37 yards on the ground and 63 yards receiving -- on nine touches (five carries and four catches). Sproles longest reception was a 43-yard scamper late in the first half. Mike Tolbert also saw a lot of action with Mathews being out of the game, totaling 82 yards and two touchdowns.

Analysis: Sproles did have a much better outing than he did in Week 1 when he had just five yards of offense. Mathews said he's fine and him not returning to action was just precautionary so Fantasy owners will have to assume Sproles and Tolbert will continue to be the rookies backups. While did turn a short pass into 43 yards, Sproles still has a lot to prove. Considering the Chargers Week 3 opponents gave up more than 300 yards through the air to Kyle Orton, one can assume Philip Rivers will try to air it out. That could mean another long pass and catch to Sproles, but that is not something Fantasy owners should bank on. Continue to view Sproles as a No. 4 Fantasy RB or flex option.

9/16/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Can Sproles break loose Week 2?

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had a very lackluster Week 1 against the Chiefs, totaling five yards on seven touches (five carries). He looks to erase those memories with a better showing in Week 2 against the Jaguars. Jacksonville gave up 75 rushing yards and just 8 receiving yards to Denver running backs in Week 1. It gave up just 71 catches for 440 yards and two touchdowns in 2009 to running backs.

Analysis: Sproles really couldn't break loose in Week 1 on a rain-soaked field. With better weather in Week 2, he could break off a long run or reception against Jacksonville. That is where Sproles gets his most Fantasy points -- on big plays. Since he remains in a backup role for San Diego, his touches are sometimes limited. For Sproles' Fantasy value to rise, an injury needs to befall starter Ryan Mathews. Heading into Week 2 against Jacksonville, Sproles is more of a No. 4 Fantasy RB or flex option.

9/14/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles can't get going in Week 1

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles was slowed down by a rain-soaked field in Week 1 against the Chiefs. He ran for just three yards on five carries and caught two passes for two yards. Sproles also had five punt returns for 33 yards and two kickoff returns for 32 yards.

Analysis: Sproles grew up in suburban Kansas City and has always had big performances against the Chiefs. But the running back/returner struggled all night to gain any traction on the wet surface, and the Chiefs displayed their improved team speed, running him down several times. He is a nice change-of-pace back that could take the pressure off rookie Ryan Mathews, but he will need a stronger performance in Week 2. Consider Sproles a low-end No. 4 RB.

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9/10/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to be used on third down

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles might not be the featured back in San Diego this season, but according to coach Norv Turner, he will still be the third-down back. "He doesn't have to play on third down. Darren Sproles is our number one guy. It helps because it gives [Mathews] a break. He can go do it if he is asked to, but he doesn't need to." Sproles and the Chargers will face Kansas City in Week 1.In eight career games against the Chiefs Sproles has 76 yards rushing 16 receptions for 164 yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: While rookie Ryan Matthews will get the bulk of the carries for San Diego this season, Sproles will still be in the mix. He will be used as a change of pace back and on third downs, as well as returning both punts and kicks. His value will mostly lie in PPR leagues because of his receiving skills. Consider him a low-end No. 4 RB heading into Week 1. His value could increase in-season, if something were to happen to Matthews.

8/28/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Chargers take it easy on Sproles

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles carried just once for a gain of five yards in Friday's preseason game at the Saints. He also caught two passes for 13 yards. Sproles has carried the ball just twice n two preseason appearances.

Analysis: Rookie Ryan Mathews will get the bulk of the carries for San Diego this season, but Sproles will still see plenty of action. He'll be used as a change of pace back and on passing downs, as well as returning both punts and kicks. His highest Fantasy value will be in PPR leagues because of his skills as a receiver. Consider him a No. 3 back in those formats. His value could increase in-season, if something were to happen to Mathews.

8/25/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles shows pass-catching skills

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles saw his first preseason action on Saturday against the Cowboys after sitting out the preseason opener against Chicago. Sproles was having a fairly productive evening until he fumbled his last touch in the second quarter and it was returned 80 yards to inside the Chargers' 10-yard line. Sproles had just one carry for 3 yards, but he did most of his damage through the air, totaling three catches for 38 yards. His longest catch went for 24 yards.

Analysis: With LaDainian Tomlinson in New York, the Chargers have a need to fill at running back. While Sproles is an explosive back, the Chargers are intending to lean on Ryan Mathews to carry the football and use Sproles as a pass-catching/screen option out of the backfield. Sproles is worth a look as a flex option or a No. 4/No. 5 Fantasy RB on Draft Day. His value could increase in-season, if something were to happen to Mathews.

8/13/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to sit out Saturday

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles will not play in Saturday night's preseason opener against the Bears, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. He suffered a bruised shoulder in practice Wednesday.

Analysis: Sproles is likely being held out as a precaution since there are three preseason games remaining. Rookie Ryan Mathews will get the bulk of the carries for San Diego this season, but Sproles will still see plenty of action. He'll be used as a change of pace back and on passing downs, as well as returning both punts and kicks. His highest Fantasy value will be in PPR leagues because of his skills as a receiver. Consider him a No. 3 back in those formats.

8/12/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Banged up Sproles held out of practice

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who left Wednesday's practice with shoulder injury, did not participate in Thursday's session. He is nursing a bruised shoulder and considered day-to-day.

6/2/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles ready to contribute in 2010

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who is nursing a sore hamstring, isn't concerned about sharing carries with rookie Ryan Mathews this season. Sproles said Wednesday he is just looking forward to being a significant part of the offense in 2010. "You get the opportunity, you've got to make the best of it," Sproles said. "You've got to keep on making plays when your number's called." Sproles sees a lot of potential in Mathews, who is replacing the departed LaDainian Tomlinson. "He's going to be a great running back," Sproles said. "(He's got) great vision, speed, power."

Analysis: Even with Mathews now in San Diego, look for Sproles to remain a significant contributor on offense. He will be used as a change of pace RB with Mathews and also as a receiver out of the backfield. Sproles should still be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option, but he has more value in leagues where receptions count. He will lose production with Mathews in the mix, but Sproles should still do enough to be a viable reserve in most Fantasy leagues this season.

5/26/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles limited in practice

News: It's not cause for concern, but Chargers RB Darren Sproles didn't participate fully Wednesday. Instead, Sproles worked away from the team to protect a sore hamstring that occurred during last week's OTAs. The injury doesn't appear to be serious. "He's mad at me for keeping him out," coach Norv Turner said.

Analysis: We'll keep tabs on Sproles' hamstring for you, but expect the speedster to be just fine. Any re-occurrence of the injury could raise eyebrows, though, since he'll need healthy legs to produce quality stats. Sproles will be limited to part-time duty this season with Ryan Mathews the new kid on the Chargers' roster. That makes Sproles a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB candidate (slightly higher in PPR leagues). So long as he's sharing the ball and working on special teams, there will be a cap on how much we can expect from him weekly, and that makes him worth selecting in the middle-to-late rounds of drafts.

4/23/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles gets company in backfield

News: Ryan Mathews was such a big fan of LaDainian Tomlinson that he wore No. 21 at Fresno State and followed the San Diego Chargers. Now he gets the chance to replace Tomlinson. The Chargers spent big in pulling off a surprising trade with the Dolphins to move up in the first round to take Mathews with the No. 12 pick overall on Thursday. The Chargers moved up 16 spots in the first round and 16 spots in the fourth round, and got Miami's sixth-round pick in exchange for the Nos. 28 and 40 picks, plus LB Tim Dobbins. "It's mind-blowing that they did that," said Mathews, the nation's leading rusher at 150.7 yards per game in college, a 218-pounder who scored 19 touchdowns last season. "I didn't expect that. It's awesome." Coach Norv Turner called Mathews a complete back. "I was here when we drafted L.T., and I know how excited I was that day," said Turner, who was offensive coordinator when the Chargers chose Tomlinson with the No. 5 overall pick in 2001. "I'm equally excited to get Ryan here now." Mathews is expected to share carries with Darren Sproles.

Analysis: Mathews has the chance to be an impact Fantasy RB right away. He should get the chance to start while sharing carries with Sproles, who is better used as a change-of-pace RB and a receiver out of the backfield. Go into the season with Mathews as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a mid-round pick in seasonal leagues. Sproles should still be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option, but he has more value in leagues where receptions count. He will lose production with Mathews in the mix, but Sproles should still do enough to be a viable reserve in most Fantasy leagues this season.

4/6/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles signs his tender

News: Chargers RB/KR Darren Sproles has signed his one-year contract tender worth $7,283,000. Sproles had been a restricted free agent tendered at the maximum first- and third-round tender, meaning that had the five-year veteran signed an offer sheet with another team, the Chargers would have had the right to match the offer or receive first- and third-round draft picks as compensation for losing him.

Analysis: If you look at the Chargers depth chart right now, it looks real good for Sproles as he's essentially the only capable back there. But it is believed that the Bolts will add another running back through the draft, and Sproles will then be limited to being a part-time back. Let's go with that assumption for now, which makes Sproles a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB candidate (slightly higher in PPR leagues). So long as he's sharing the ball and working on special teams, there will be a cap on how much we can expect from him weekly, and that makes him worth selecting in the middle rounds of drafts.

3/23/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Turner confident in Sproles

News: Chargers coach Norv Turner said in an interview with CBSSports.com at the NFL owner's meeting in Orlando, FL that Darren Sproles will take on a bigger role in the offense now that LaDainian Tomlinson is no longer with the team. Tomlinson was released in February, and Sproles, a restricted free agent, now has the chance to earn the starter's role. "We know what Darren does well," Turner said. "We like what he does well." But things aren't all positive for Sproles. Turner said the Chargers "need to get a young back," which means they will likely take a RB in the NFL Draft. He also said they don't want to remove Sproles from his role on kick and punt returns. "Each year he's done more, but I don't want to do so much that it takes away his productivity in the kicking game because he's a great punt and kick returner," Turner said.

Analysis: We expected Sproles to get a significant boost with Tomlinson no longer in San Diego, but the NFL Draft will likely determine how much of a boost Sproles will get. We view him as a solid No. 3 Fantasy RB with the chance to be a No. 2 option if he's named the starter and the Chargers fail to bring in significant competition. Continue to monitor what happens with Sproles, but plan on drafting him with a mid-round pick in all leagues.

3/4/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Report: Sproles gets tendered high

News: After it was believed that the Chargers would let RB Darren Sproles test free agency, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported Thursday that the team has changed its mind and will give him the high tender offer. Sproles is guaranteed a one-year deal with over $7 million as a result, though a team could still sign him away but would have to give first- and third-round picks as compensation if the Chargers didn't match it.

Analysis: This changes things for Sproles' Fantasy value. With $7 million dedicated to him, the Chargers pretty much have to find a way to use him in their offense as well as keep him on special teams. Granted, it's been long believed that Sproles' small size will keep him from being a 20-touch, every-down running back, so chances are he'll still share the ball. But we think he could be in for at least 10 touches per game, which he did seven times last season including the first three games of the year. We'll have to wait and see how the Chargers' backfield shakes out, but we're more optimistic than ever that Sproles can be a useful No. 3 Fantasy RB in PPR formats and a top-end reserve in standard play. We'll keep you posted on him all offseason long.

2/26/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Chargers decline to tender Sproles

News: The San Diego Chargers have decided not to tender a contract to running back Darren Sproles, allowing him to test the free agent market, according to a person familiar with the decision. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't made an official announcement. If the Chargers wanted to keep Sproles, they would have had to made him an offer of about $7.3 million. The move comes four days after the team released fellow running back LaDainian Tomlinson.

Analysis: Sproles was not likely to be the Chargers' featured back even without LaDainian Tomlinson around. There is concern that Sproles doesn't have the physical build (he's listed generously at 5-foot-6 and 185 pounds) to hold up over the course of a season. To wit, he had only one 20-touch game in 2009 and it was the second of his career (Dec. 2007 against the Lions being the other). Until a team gives him the money to be a regular part of its offense, he's going to split reps, work on special teams and probably never work near the goal line.

2/23/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Report: Sproles won't get tag

News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that while the Chargers are trying to work out a long-term extension for running back Darren Sproles, they will not use the franchise tag to keep him for the second year in a row. Doing so would guarantee Sproles a $7.3M salary in 2010, something the team isn't interested in doing.

Analysis: Sproles is not likely to land a big role in the Chargers' offense even with LaDainian Tomlinson's recent release. There is concern that Sproles doesn't have the physical build (he's listed generously at 5-foot-6 and 185 pounds) to hold up over the course of a season. To wit, he had only one 20-touch game in 2009 and it was the second of his career (Dec. 2007 against the Lions being the other). Until a team gives him the money to be a regular part of its offense, he's going to split reps, work on special teams and probably never work near the goal line. We'll keep you posted on his status, but don't get as excited over Sproles as you might be now that L.T.'s done in San Diego.

2/22/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to start in San Diego?

News: The Chargers announced Monday that they have officially released RB LaDainian Tomlinson. Does this mean that speedster Darren Sproles will replace him as the primary running back? Not so fast -- for starters, Sproles is scheduled to be a free agent this offseason and might land the franchise tag in the coming week. Second, there is concern that Sproles doesn't have the physical build (he's listed generously at 5-foot-6 and 185 pounds) to hold up over the course of a season. To wit, he had only one 20-touch game in 2009 and it was the second of his career (Dec. 2007 against the Lions being the other).

Analysis: We don't deny that Sproles has ability -- in fact, we're huge fans of his and have been so since his days at Kansas State. But unless the Chargers become a team that uses him more for his receiving skills than anything else and chooses not to run the ball effectively, Sproles will see split time with another back and probably will never work near the goal line. We'll keep you posted on his status, but since Tomlinson is out of the picture the potential is there for Sproles to see an increase in Fantasy value.

2/4/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

With L.T. out, is Sproles in?

News: LaDainian Tomlinson says he believes he has played his last game as a San Diego Charger. The running back told the San Diego Union-Tribune on Thursday that he has thought for a while he would be let go by the Chargers, adding that he's dismayed by the business side of the league. The NFL's most valuable player in 2006 has two years remaining on his contract. He is due a $2 million roster bonus March 5 and would be paid $5 million in total salary in 2010. "I'm not coming back," Tomlinson told the paper. "I don't believe I'll be back in San Diego. I've accepted it."

Analysis: This opens the door for Darren Sproles to have a bigger part of the rushing workload for the Chargers, though there's one problem: He's scheduled to be a free agent this offseason. Assuming he stays with the Bolts, he'd have the potential to be a solid No. 3 Fantasy RB (low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB in PPR leagues) depending on who he shares the ball with in San Diego. If he leaves, then there's no telling what his Fantasy value would be though it probably would be around a No. 3 option in all formats.

1/3/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles nets 18 yards in finale

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles only saw two touches of the football in the Week 17 win over the Washington Redskins as the Chargers rested their regulars for the playoffs. Sproles rushed twice for 18 yards with his long carry of 12 yards.

Analysis: Sproles had another solid season as a handcuff to LaDainian Tomlinson in San Diego. Every season we think L.T. will be done and Sproles ready to emerge as a top Fantasy option but so far that hasn’t happened. Sproles has gained value as dual-threat receiver and runner and is definitely worth drafting on Draft Day 2010. We believe Sproles could be in for his best year yet in 2010-11 and think he could come off the board as early as the middle rounds.

1/1/2010

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Bolts to pull plug vs. Skins?

News: The Chargers are locked into the No. 2 seed in the AFC -- they can do no better and no worse regardless of the result of their Week 17 game vs. Washington. But there's a lot of uncertainty over what the Chargers will do this week against the Redskins since they haven't been in this position in any of their last three seasons. Head coach Norv Turner said that limiting players with injuries would be a priority, but given that the Chargers pulled their starters in their game last week against the Titans once a win was in hand clearly represents that the team is willing to do such a thing. Count on it happening again -- in fact, it wouldn't be a surprise to see one or two high-profile starters listed as inactive on Sunday before kickoff, with Vincent Jackson a likely option since he was limited or held out of practice this week with an Achilles' injury.

Analysis: If you own any of the Chargers' studs -- Philip Rivers, LaDainian Tomlinson, Jackson, Antonio Gates and even Darren Sproles -- you're in a tough spot if you need them in Week 17. You cannot expect them to play a full game against the Redskins, especially if they can't improve their playoff seeding. Consider other options before going with any of these guys in Week 17 since they could seriously disappoint. Check out what else we have to say about players on playoff-bound teams who might rest in Week 17.

12/25/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles a star vs. Titans

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles was a star Friday night at Tennessee. He only had five carries and caught two passes, but he finished with 38 rushing yards and two touchdowns and 23 receiving yards and another score.

Analysis: Sproles is always a sneaky Fantasy option since he's capable of big games like this where he can score three touchdowns, but there are other times where he barely does anything. That said, he could be a star in Week 17 against Washington. The Chargers are likely going to rest their starters after locking up the No. 2 seed in the AFC with this victory. If that happens as expected with LaDainian Tomlinson, Sproles could see extended action and would be worth starting in all leagues.

12/20/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles good for just 33 yards

News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson had 59 rushing yards on 16 carries in Week 15 against Cincinnati. He also caught four passes for 58 yards, giving him 117 total yards. Backup RB Darren Sproles rushed three times for 11 yards and caught three passes for 22 yards.

Analysis: Tomlinson has yet to rush for 100 yards this season, but he'll continue to see around 20-25 touches per game and remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB for the stretch run. He'll face a tough Titans run defense in Week 16 on the road, so weigh your options carefully. Sproles is not a recommended option as long as Tomlinson is healthy.

12/13/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles totals 25 yards in win

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles totaled seven carries for 22 yards during a Week 14 win against the Cowboys. He also had one catch for 3 yards. It was the fifth time in 2009 that Sproles was held to one catch.

Analysis: Ever since Sproles had a seven-catch, 124-yard performance in Week 2 against the Ravens, he hasn't done a ton for Fantasy owners. The Chargers are no longer using him at the goal line, and if he doesn't break a big screen pass, then his numbers usually look pedestrian. That won't change until something happens to starting RB LaDainian Tomlinson. Sproles is a low-end Fantasy start in Week 15 against the Bengals.

12/6/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles finally back in end zone

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who went five games without scoring a touchdown, finally got back in the end zone Week 13 at Cleveland. He scored on a 31-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter. He finished with seven carries for 27 yards and four catches for 56.

Analysis: The Chargers have leaned more and more on LaDainian Tomlinson as he has gotten healthier, making Sproles nothing more than an afterthought. He still gets 5-10 touches per week, but unless he breaks off a big play, he doesn't make much of a contribution in Fantasy. He's just a handcuff option for Tomlinson owners at Dallas in Week 14.

11/29/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles gets 66 receiving yards Week 12

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles wasn’t all that effective on the ground but did manage a better performance catching the ball out of the backfield in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. Sproles carried the ball nine times in the game and gained 17 yards. He had five receptions, gaining 66 yards.

Analysis: Sproles has not been as effective in the run game this season as many Fantasy owners had hoped for as LaDainian Tomlinson has returned to form this year. He has not scored since Week 1 against Oakland and is yet to rush for more than 50 yards in a game. He remains at best a No. 3 Fantasy option for Week 13 at Cleveland.

11/23/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles doesn't do much in blowout

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who had a total of 114 yards over his last three games, again played just a supporting role Week 11 at Denver. He ran nine times for 26 yards and caught one pass for 7.

Analysis: Sproles hasn't done much for Fantasy owners in recent weeks and has become a risky start even when the Chargers have favorable matchups, like they do Week 12 against the Chiefs. He's still worth a roster spot since he's always a threat for a big play, but he's a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB at best. He has slightly more appeal in points-per-reception leagues since he's a good receiving option out of the backfield.

11/15/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles does little again Week 10

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had another weak performance on Sunday in a Week 10 win over the Eagles. Sproles carried the ball only twice in the contest, gaining 14 yards. He also caught four passes that went for 31 yards.

Analysis: Sproles had only 23 yards Week 9 at the Giants, so this was a slight improvement. Sproles has disappeared a few times in 2009, making him a risky play week in and week out. Think of him as a flex option at best for Week 11 at Denver. Back in Week 6, Sproles gained only 4 total yards on one carry and one reception.

11/8/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles bottled up by Giants

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had one carry for 1 yard during a Week 9 win against the Giants. He also had five catches for 22 yards, but his longest gain went for 21 yards. He did not score.

Analysis: Sproles has had a few games in 2009 where he has been virtually invisible. He usually gets about 7-10 touches per game and can break off a big play. But the Giants did a good job of limiting Sproles' impact in Week 9. We like Sproles better when LaDainian Tomlinson is sidelined, so consider him nothing more than a flex option for Week 10 against the Eagles.

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11/1/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles does little on six touches

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who had eight touches for 99 yards last week, couldn't do as much with six touches Week 8 against the Raiders. He had five carries for 38 yards and one catch for 8 yards.

Analysis: Sproles has big-play potential and three touchdowns on the season, which makes him a candidate to start in Fantasy any given week. Then again, it also makes him a candidate to sit since he might not make the most of the few touches he gets. Try not to use him as more than a No. 3 Fantasy RB at the Giants in Week 9.

10/25/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles rolls for 58-yard touchdown

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles scored on a 58-yard touchdown catch-and-run in Week 7 at Kansas City. He rushed five times for 41 yards and also caught three catches for 58 yards.

Analysis: Sproles has scored three touchdowns this season, two of which have been receptions. Sproles will continue to play a secondary role behind LaDainian Tomlinson while the latter remains healthy, but Sproles has enough big play ability to be considered a viable No. 3 RB option in any league -- especially during the bye weeks. The Chargers host the Raiders in Week 8.

10/23/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to stay in background Week 7?

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who has just one carry in his last two games, will try to get back involved in the offense during a Week 7 matchup at Kansas City. The Chiefs rank 25th against the run this season.

Analysis: With LaDainian Tomlinson back healthy again, it looks like Sproles' value will be limited to just leagues that reward return yardage for the time being. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy option at best for Week 7.

10/20/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles big with punt return TD

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles did nothing within the offense on Monday night in a loss to Denver in Week 6. Sproles carried once for 0 yards and added one grab for 4 more yards. He did, however, score a touchdown. Sproles returned a punt 77 yards in the 2nd quarter to score a touchdown before halftime.

Analysis: Sproles returned his first TD of the season on Monday night in a game that saw Eddie Royal return a punt and a kickoff for the distance. It is the first time in NFL history that that has happened. Sproles is one of the best return men in football but if LaDainian Tomlinson is healthy -- he had 100 total yards Monday -- his value is limited to that of a handcuff option. Sproles could still be used as a flex option at Kansas City in Week 7 because the Chiefs are not good against the run.

10/15/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles simply a stud vs. Denver in '08

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles takes on the Broncos on Monday Night Football in Week 6, and he will be hoping he can get enough touches to replicate his stellar outings against Denver last season. In their first meeting in 2008, Sproles totaled 125 yards and a touchdown, while in their second game he managed 132 yards and two touchdowns.

Analysis: LaDainian Tomlinson will start on Monday, but you know Norv Turner will want to get Sproles involved as much as he possibly can. Start the little man as a flex or bye-week replacement option in deeper Fantasy leagues.

10/5/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles practically invisible

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles likely knew that his offensive workload would be limited with LaDainian Tomlinson coming back, but not to the extent that it actually was. Sproles had just one catch for 16 yards at Pittsburgh in Week 4, failing to register a single carry. He did more damage on special teams, returning six kickoffs for 154 total yards.

Analysis: We certainly expected Sproles to see more action than this, especially since the Chargers ran the ball eight times (just seven runs by L.T.) and passed 36 times. Sproles and the Bolts will be on a bye in Week 5 but will return in Week 6 to face the Broncos at home. Consider Sproles no better than a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB for that matchup since it's clear his workload isn't guaranteed to be much.

10/1/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles back to being a back up

News: Running back LaDainian Tomlinson, who has been out with an ankle injury, practiced for the second straight day Thursday. He is considered probable for Week 4 at Pittsburgh and should get the start with Darren Sproles continuing to get carries behind him.

Analysis: L.T. said last week he would not return unless he's 100 percent healthy. All signs point to that being the case. If Tomlinson does play, as expected, Sproles would return to a reserve role and serve as a change-of-pace option. Consider L.T. a solid play in all leagues for Week 4 unless he suffers a setback.

9/30/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Tomlinson back at practice

News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle) returned to practice Wednesday. This was his first practice since he sprained an ankle in the Sept. 14 opener against Oakland. He has missed the past two games against Baltimore and Miami heading into Week 4 at Pittsburgh.

Analysis: Keep an eye on Tomlinson's status heading into the matchup with the Steelers. If active, Tomlinson would be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB. Hopefully he can play, but he said last week he would not return unless he's 100 percent healthy. If Tomlinson does play, Darren Sproles would return to a reserve role and serve as a change-of-pace option.

9/27/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Dolphins bottle up RB Sproles

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles started in place of the injured LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle) for the second straight game in Week 3 against the Dolphins. Miami did a good job bottling up the speedy back, limiting Sproles to 41 rushing yards on 18 carries. Sproles didn't have a run longer than eight yards and managed just two catches for 14 yards. He was also held out of the end zone.

Analysis: Sproles really hasn't been able to break free out of the backfield in L.T.'s absence the last two weeks, but that isn't going to make San Diego rush their star player back into action. Sproles is still a big enough threat to get the job done and Philip Rivers is making a ton of plays with his arm. If Sproles starts again in Week 4 against the Steelers, consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option.

9/25/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Tomlinson ruled out for Week 3

News: The Chargers have ruled RB LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle) out for their Week 3 game vs. the Dolphins. Darren Sproles will start in his place.

Analysis: Tomlinson said on Thursday that he wouldn't start until he's 100 percent, which clearly he isn't right now. With a tough matchup in Week 4 at Pittsburgh and a bye week after that, you have to think Tomlinson might well be held out until Week 6 vs. Denver, which is the first of three games against relatively easily opponents (Kansas City and Oakland after that). Continue to bench LT in all formats and just bide your time until he's back to full health. Sproles can be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB in LT's place for the game against Miami.

9/24/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Tomlinson again misses practice

News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle) didn't practice again Thursday after missing practice Wednesday. He was out for Week 2 against Baltimore, and it's unlikely he will play in Week 3 against Miami. Coach Norv Turner said his offense's approach "is a lot different" when Tomlinson is absent. "There's a whole set of things we do differently," Turner said. "Sometimes that stuff is good, and it's good short term. Sometimes it's hard to make a steady diet of it." Minus Tomlinson, RB Darren Sproles "becomes our go-to guy," said Turner. "(Michael) Bennett is the change of pace guy."

Analysis: If Tomlinson is out, Sproles would get the start against the Dolphins, and he should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB. Bennett could be a sleeper in deeper formats. Keep Tomlinson reserved in all formats if he's ruled out, and we should know for sure Friday following practice.

9/23/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to scamper against Dolphins?

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, coming off a superb all-around performance against the Ravens, will take on the Dolphins in Week 3. Miami has done pretty well against running backs so far this season, holding Michael Turner to 65 yards and the two main Colts RBs to 58 yards total.

Analysis: LaDainian Tomlinson didn't practice on Wednesday, which is great news for Sproles' owners, as it looks like the little man has a good chance to start again in Week 3. With Miami's run-stuffing ability, you have to think the Chargers will use Sproles a ton as a receiver out of the backfield in Week 3, even if his rushing yards are limited. Use Sproles as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy RB in all formats.

9/20/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles sprints 81 yards for TD

News: Ray Lewis met Darren Sproles head-on on fourth-and-2 in the closing seconds, preserving a 31-26 win for the Baltimore Ravens over the San Diego Chargers on Sunday. The Chargers needed a touchdown to win and had the ball on Baltimore's 15 with 33 seconds left. Lewis came in unblocked and slammed the little running back to the ground for a 5-yard loss, and the Ravens (2-0) ran out the clock. Despite not getting the first down, Sproles had a heck of a day in place of the injured LaDainian Tomlinson, who was inactive with an ankle injury. Sproles totaled 150 yards, including 124 on seven receptions, and one touchdown. The Ravens forgot to cover Sproles on San Diego's second possession of the game and he turned a swing pass from Philip Rivers into an 81-yard touchdown for a 7-0 lead. Sproles raced down the right sideline before cutting inside and beating Ed Reed to the end zone.

Analysis: As expected, Sproles didn't do a lot of running against the Ravens. But he still broke a big play, scored a touchdown and had 150 yards. Those are monster numbers for Fantasy owners. Sproles has the ability to put up big numbers, but when L.T. is healthy, he sees limited touches. If L.T. is still out in Week 3 against the Dolphins, consider Sproles a nice No. 2 Fantasy RB. If L.T. is active, you risk starting Sproles at your own peril.

9/20/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

L.T. out; Sproles, Bennett in

News: As expected, Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson (ankle) has officially been listed as inactive for Week 2 vs. Baltimore. RB Darren Sproles is expected to start in his place, but RB Michael Bennett will also see carries out of the backfield.

Analysis: This is the first regular-season game L.T. has missed in his career. We aren't sure how bad the ankle injury is, but this is a situation where Fantasy owners will need to follow his status leading up to Week 3. As for Week 2, consider Sproles a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option against a stout Ravens defense. Bennett is only an emergency option in deeper formats.

9/18/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to step in for L.T.

News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson did not practice all week because of a lingering right ankle injury, and the team has since ruled him out for Week 2 vs. the Ravens. Darren Sproles is expected to start and Michael Bennett is expected to aid in the rushing duties against the Ravens.

Analysis: Sproles has played very well in games he's been forced into starting, and he's even posted nice totals against great defenses in challenging games: Last year at Pittsburgh in the Divisional Playoffs, Sproles had 91 yards receiving including a 62-yard touchdown scamper to go with 15 rush yards on 11 carries. So he's done this before. Remember this: Sproles is small in size but if the Chargers use him on the outside edges and on screens, he could break a couple of runs or catches and make things interesting. Consider Sproles a No. 3 Fantasy RB for this week's game (a little higher in PPR leagues).

9/18/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

No practice Friday for L.T.

News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson isn't practicing on Friday, giving him three straight days of missing practice. He is nursing a right ankle injury that he suffered in Week 1 at Oakland. Coach Norv Turner has already said that players who aren't practicing don't have as good of a chance to play in Week 2 as those that do.

Analysis: Typically, when a player misses a Friday practice, he's unlikely to play on Sunday, but Tomlinson is a veteran of the game who might just need rest and nothing else. Then again, the Ravens' run defense is one of the stiffest in the league and Tomlinson might benefit from resting instead of trying to take them on. We'll know L.T.'s status a little more than an hour before kickoff on Sunday afternoon. If he's out, Darren Sproles would be in (as might Michael Bennett), and they'd be no better than No. 3 options. We'll keep you posted.

9/16/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles might need to start Week 2

News: A year ago, Fantasy players would have gagged at the sight of LaDainian Tomlinson wearing a protective boot on his right ankle. It might not be as shocking this year, since his popularity with Fantasy geeks has dropped off somewhat. But there he was, limping to the podium for his weekly news conference two days after the season opener. Tomlinson was one of seven Chargers who didn't practice on Wednesday, when San Diego began preparing for its home opener Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens. "I've had it before. It's very common," Tomlinson said. "So I'm not too concerned with it." How much or if he plays on Sunday remains to be seen. If the Chargers don't want to push it with L.T., they can turn to speedy little Darren Sproles and Michael Bennett. "Nobody wants to be hurt, but I've had some unfortunate things happen," said Tomlinson, who scored a touchdown in San Diego's 24-20 win at Oakland on Monday night, which was a lot closer than most everyone expected. "At the same time, I'm still optimistic about this injury."

Analysis: Tomlinson, who had 55 yards on 13 carries Monday night, was hurt while losing a fumble in the first quarter. He played on and off until the fourth quarter. He wasn't on the field on the winning drive, capped by Sproles' 5-yard run with 18 seconds to play. Even if Sproles has to start for L.T. on Sunday, he is still going to have to face one of the best run defenses in the NFL. We probably wouldn't look to Sproles as much more than a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option. Stay tuned.

9/15/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles scores crucial late touchdown

News: Philip Rivers and the Chargers opened the season doing what they do best: beating the Oakland Raiders. Rivers answered a pair of go-ahead scores by Oakland by leading two touchdown drives, capped by Darren Sproles 5-yard run with 18 seconds left that gave the Chargers their 12th straight victory in this one-sided rivalry, 24-20 Monday night. Sproles was far more useful on Monday on kickoff returns and catching passes than carrying the ball. He had two kickoff returns of more than 50 yards while making five catches for 43 yards. He had only nine rushes in the game for 23 yards including the game-winning TD.

Analysis: Sproles carried the rock over Ladainian Tomlinson on that final drive, a sign that the tide could potentially be turning in San Diego. Sproles remains the backup to Tomlinson in San Diego but could be seeing more and more touches if Tomlinson does not improve. Consider Sproles a No. 3 Fantasy RB until he manages to take over the starting job in San Diego. He does however have a tough matchup in Week 2, going up against a tough Baltimore defense.

9/11/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to face familiar opponent

News: Chargers No. 2 RB Darren Sproles will take on a division opponent in Week 1 when he travels to Oakland to take on the Raiders. Last season, Sproles totaled 42 yards on 15 carries in the two games he played against the Raiders.

Analysis: Sproles remains the backup to LaDainian Tomlinson, but should be used more on offense this year. That could come possibly on third downs and certain passing downs. What he does have to his advantage in Week 1 is that the Raiders finished second to last in rush defense last season, allowing 159.7 yards per game and 23 touchdowns. Consider him a decent flex or No. 3 RB option this week in standard leagues due to the matchup.

9/2/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to rest this week?

News: Chargers coach Norv Turner pronounced RB Darren Sproles "ready to go" for the season, which might mean that the running back sits out the team's final preseason game. "He's had an excellent training camp, excellent preseason," Turner said.

Analysis: Sproles has shown flashes of his speed this preseason and looked good in a starting role against the Falcons in the third preseason game. He should be used more on offense, possibly on third downs and certain passing downs. He's also in a contract year following his franchise-tag status this offseason and should be motivated to play well in the limited playing time he'll have behind LaDainian Tomlinson. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB with lots of upside, well worth a mid-round pick, especially in PPR leagues.

8/30/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles starts third preseason game

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles, who started at for LaDainian Tomlinson in Saturday's preseason game at Atlanta, scored on a 10-yard run to cap San Diego's opening drive. He finished with three carries for 16 yards and three catches for 29 yards.

Analysis: Sproles is a solid No. 2 RB for the Chargers, but he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option. Tomlinson remains the starter and is not hurt. But, he is 30 and coming off an injury-plagued 2008. Sproles could play a significant role this season if Tomlinson gets hurt and is forced to miss any time.

8/6/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles will like new rules

News: Chargers coaches said return man Darren Sproles could benefit from the new rule outlawing kickoff blocking wedges involving three or more players. Sproles ranked eighth in kickoff returns last year. "When you get spread out a little more, there are probably some seams that show up," Chargers special teams coach Steve Crosby said. "He's certainly a guy that will split a seam if he finds it, and he will."

Analysis: Sproles will continue to make the Chargers DST and ST unit a little better if he continues to make plays like he's capable of. Fantasy owners want Sproles to be more of a factor on offense, but he comes into the season as a quality No. 3 RB as LaDainian Tomlinson's backup.

7/27/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles' 'starting point' on returns

News: In a Q&A with the San Diego Union-Tribune, Chargers head coach Norv Turner said that the "starting point" for RB Darren Sproles this year will be on returns, not exactly giving a huge vote of confidence to Sproles' workload on offense. "Darren is going to complement [LaDainian Tomlinson]," Turner said. "But Darren's starting point is in the return game and we'll pick our spots with him on offense."

Analysis: Sproles lit up the Colts and Steelers' defenses in the playoffs last winter, earning him the Chargers' franchise tag and a guaranteed $6 million-plus salary this year. He's a tremendous versatile home-run threat at running back, but questions about his size limit his overall touches, especially over the course of a 16-game season. We don't think the Chargers can ignore Sproles, especially if Tomlinson plays anything like he did last year. We love the little guy's game and would recommend him as a nice middle-round pick as a top-end reserve rusher whether you own L.T. or not.

4/29/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles signs franchise tender

News: Chargers running back Darren Sproles on Tuesday signed the $6,621,000 million contract he was tendered as the team's franchise player. He is expected to have a sizable role as part of the Chargers' run game in 2009.

Analysis: With Tomlinson sidelined by a groin injury, Sproles stepped up and had a huge performance in a 23-17 win against Indianapolis in a wild-card playoff game. He gained 328 all-purpose yards and scored two touchdowns, including the winning 22-yard scamper in overtime. He's a tremendous versatile home-run threat at running back, but questions about his size limit his overall touches, especially over the course of a 16-game season. The Chargers would likely want to pair Sproles with L.T. to form a potent 1-2 run game in 2009, which could mean around 12 touches per week for Sproles. We love the little guy's game and would recommend him as a nice middle-round pick as a top-end reserve rusher.

2/19/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles gets Chargers' franchise tag

News: The Chargers placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Darren Sproles on Wednesday, virtually assuring that the speedy little running back-returner will be back next season. Sproles had been scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. The Chargers tendered him a one-year contract offer of approximately $6.62 million, the average of the top five salaried running backs from 2008. If he signs with another team, the Chargers will receive two first-round picks as compensation. Chargers GM A.J. Smith shot down speculation that putting the franchise tag on Sproles means the end of LaDainian Tomlinson's record-setting tenure in San Diego. "This has nothing to do with L.T.," Smith said. "Our intention is to pursue L.T. We assume that at the combine it will pick up speed and there will be some substance to it when we return."

Analysis: With Tomlinson sidelined by a groin injury, Sproles stepped up and had a huge performance in a 23-17 win against Indianapolis in a wild-card playoff game. He gained 328 all-purpose yards and scored two touchdowns, including the winning 22-yard scamper in overtime. He's a tremendous versatile home-run threat at running back, but questions about his size limit his overall touches, especially over the course of a 16-game season. The Chargers would likely want to pair Sproles with L.T. to form a 1-2 run game in 2009, which could mean around 12 touches per week for Sproles. We love the little guy's game and would recommend him as a nice middle-round pick as a top-end reserve rusher.

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1/11/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles better as WR than rusher

News: Chargers backup RB Darren Sproles, getting to start Sunday's Divisional Playoff game at Pittsburgh in place of the injured LaDainian Tomlinson (groin), had only 11 carries for 15 yards. He did, however, catch five passes for 91 yards, including a 62-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Analysis: Sproles had 150 total yards filling in for Tomlinson against the Colts last week, so he's clearly a multi-purpose back well worth using in Fantasy whenever Tomlinson can't go. Consider him a nice handcuff for the aging Tomlinson in next year's Fantasy draft.

1/4/2009

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has big game in relief

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles got the bulk of the carries in the team's 23-17 overtime win against the Colts on Saturday. He had 23 rushing attempts for 105 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner in overtime as usual starter Ladainian Tomlinson was only able to carry the ball five times in the game. Sproles also had five catches in the game for 45 yards with a long of 17 yards.

Analysis: We'll have to wait and see if Tomlinson is going to be able to play in next week's playoff game. If he is limited like he was Saturday or doesn't play, Sproles suddenly becomes a No. 1 Fantasy RB in playoff leagues. Check Tomlinson's status before the Chargers' next game.

12/29/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles steps up

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles played well in the season finale against Denver with 14 carries for 115 yards and a touchdown and two catches for 17 yards and a touchdown to help the Chargers win the game and the AFC West title. Sproles could be in line for increased carries in the first round of the playoffs against Indianapolis with LaDainian Tomlinson (abdomen strain) leaving the game against the Broncos. Tomlinson said he expects to play, but keep an eye on what happens with Sproles against the Colts.

Analysis: Sproles will see his share of touches whether Tomlinson is healthy or not. Sproles should play well in the postseason and will enter 2009 as a good sleeper option because Tomlinson is getting near the end of his career. Plan on drafting Sproles with a late-round pick in all leagues next season. He finished the 2008 regular season with 61 carries for 330 yards and a touchdown and 29 catches for 342 yards and five touchdowns.

12/21/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles scores on screen

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had two carries for 3 yards and three catches for 46 yards and a touchdown Sunday at Tampa Bay. Sproles also added four kickoff returns for 127.2 yards and two punt returns for 45 yards.

Analysis: Sproles is a solid backup RB and a decent low-end Fantasy option in deeper leagues. Sproles could be a flex option in deeper leagues in Week 17 against Denver. He had seven carries for 53 yards and two catches for 72 yards and a touchdown in Week 2 at Denver earlier this year.

12/14/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles catches his yardage

News: In the Chargers' 22-21 win at the Chiefs in Week 15, backup RB Darren Sproles didn't have a carry but did catch four passes for 11 yards.

Analysis: Sproles is too much of a boom-or-bust type of Fantasy option to use as a starter. He's a nice insurance policy for those owners relying on LaDainian Tomlinson, but he's not worth owning otherwise unless special-teams yardage counts. The Chargers play at the Buccaneers in Week 16.

12/5/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles gets two receiving TDs

News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles caught two TD passes in Week 14's thrashing over the Oakland Raiders. His 87-yard touchdown on a punt return in the fourth quarter was called back after rookie Antoine Cason was called for an illegal block in the back. QB Philip Rivers threw an 8-yard TD pass to Sproles early in the second quarter, capping a 15-play, 96-yard drive. He also scored on an 18-yard pass in the 4th quarter. Sproles carried nine times for 30 yards and had three grabs for 34 more.

Analysis: Sproles came into Thursday's game with one career receiving touchdown -- it came this season -- and now has three. As the backup to LaDainian Tomlinson, Sproles still sees some action as a do-it-all back for the Chargers and was a nice member of the passing game in Week 14. The Chargers should use him like this going forward and that makes him a decent 'flex' option heading into Week 15 at Kansas City. Sproles rushed three times for 15 yards the last time the teams met but we expect more from him in Week 15.

11/30/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles doesn't factor on offense

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had neither a carry nor a reception Week 13 against the Falcons. He touched the ball only on special teams.

Analysis: Sproles usually gets a few touches in relief of LaDainian Tomlinson, but the Chargers had trouble running the ball against the Falcons defense. Sproles has nice big-play ability, which makes him a worthy handcuff for Tomlinson owners, but don't bother starting him Week 14 against Raiders.

11/24/2008	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles does little Sunday News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles had two carries for 21 yards and two catches for 13 yards Sunday against the Colts. Analysis: Sproles is the No. 2 RB in San Diego behind LaDainian Tomlinson. Sproles is worth owning in all leagues if you have the roster space as a handcuff option to Tomlinson. Consider Sproles a No. 4 Fantasy option in Week 13 against Atlanta.

11/16/2008	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles gets just two touches News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles rushed once for no gain and caught one pass for nine yards in Week 11 at Pittsburgh. Analysis: Sproles has not had more than 20 yards in a game since Oct. 5. He is not going to get many touches while LaDainian Tomlinson is healthy and that is why he should only be considered low-end insurance for Tomlinson owners.

11/9/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles good for 30 total yards

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles rushed three times for 15 yards in Week 10 against Kansas City. He also caught three passes for 15 yards to give him 30 total yards in the game.

Analysis: Sproles plays a huge role on special teams and obviously has game-breaking ability, but the fact remains he sits behind LaDainian Tomlinson on the depth chart. As long as Tomlinson remains healthy enough to play, Sproles won't contribute enough for Fantasy purposes. Reserve him in all leagues for Week 11 at Pittsburgh.

10/26/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles gets only four touches

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles got only one carry for the second straight game Week 8 against the Saints in England. He ran for six yards. He did, however, catch three passes for 45 yards.

Analysis: Bad news for Sproles: LaDainian Tomlinson looked much healthier this week, which probably means his backup gets even fewer touches going forward. Sproles clearly has ability, though, so you want to keep him handcuffed to Tomlinson if you can. The Chargers have a bye in Week 9 before playing the Chiefs in Week 10.

10/19/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles totals six yards

News: In his 23-14 loss at Buffalo in Week 14, San Diego RB Darren Sproles had one rush for 1 yard and one catch for 5 yards.

Analysis: The Chargers had little choice but to throw for much of this game, leaving minimal reps for Sproles. It's no rest for him as he and the Chargers fly to London to prepare for their Week 8 game vs. the Saints. Continue to view him as a quality insurance policy for LaDainian Tomlinson and not as a starting option.

10/17/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles expected to play Week 7

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 7 at Buffalo. Sproles went through limited practice reps Thursday and Friday after sitting out Wednesday.

Analysis: Sproles plays a huge role on special teams and obviously has game-breaking ability, but the fact remains he sits behind LaDainian Tomlinson on the depth chart. As long as Tomlinson remains healthy enough to play, Sproles won't contribute enough for Fantasy purposes. He has little to no Fantasy value for Week 7, despite the fact it appears as though he will play.

10/16/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles upgraded on Thursday

News: After not being able to practice at all on Wednesday, Chargers RB Darren Sproles (ankle) was upgraded Thursday as he was able to practice in a limited capacity as the team prepares for Week 7 at Buffalo. He sprained his ankle during a Week 6 win against the Patriots.

Analysis: Sproles plays a huge role on special teams and obviously has game-breaking ability, but the fact remains he sits behind LaDainian Tomlinson on the depth chart. As long as Tomlinson remains healthy enough to play, Sproles won't contribute enough for Fantasy purposes. Think of him as just a handcuff option and monitor his status leading up to Week 7 at Buffalo.

10/15/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles unable to practice

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles (ankle) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 7 at Buffalo. He sprained his ankle during a Week 6 win against the Patriots.

Analysis: Sproles plays a huge role on special teams and obviously has game-breaking ability, but the fact remains he sits behind LaDainian Tomlinson on the depth chart. As long as Tomlinson remains healthy enough to play, Sproles won't contribute enough for Fantasy purposes. Think of him as just a handcuff option and monitor his status leading up to Week 7 at Buffalo.

10/13/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles plays little, hurts ankle

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had only three offensive touches Week 6 against the Patriots -- his fewest since Week 1. He carried the ball twice for nine yards and caught a pass for eight. He ended up leaving in the fourth quarter, though, with an ankle injury.

Analysis: Sproles plays a huge role on special teams and obviously has game-breaking ability, but the fact remains he sits behind LaDainian Tomlinson on the depth chart. As long as Tomlinson remains healthy enough to play, Sproles won't contribute enough for Fantasy purposes. Think of him as just a handcuff option and monitor his status leading up to Week 7 at Buffalo.

10/5/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles totals 46 yards

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had six carries for 24 yards and one catch for 22 yards as San Diego fell to Miami in Week 5.

Analysis: Sproles has only been getting from seven to nine touches a week with the Chargers, but he still has Fantasy value because of his special teams capabilities and the fact that he could replace the semi-injured LaDainian Tomlinson at any time. Continue to hold on to him in most formats, but don't start him in Week 6 vs. New England unless Tomlinson can't play.

9/28/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles kickoff return sparks Chargers

News: Darren Sproles' long kickoff return set up Nate Kaeding's go-ahead 47-yard field goal with 1:51 to play and LaDainian Tomlinson sealed the Chargers' 10th straight win over their AFC West rivals the Raiders with a 41-yard TD run in a 28-18 victory Week 4. After Nate Kaeding missed his second field goal for the Chargers, QB JaMarcus Russell finally got the Raiders offense moving with help from a pair of penalties by defensive back Antonio Cromartie. That set up Sebastian Janikowski's 32-yard field goal that tied the game at 18 with 2:47 to go. But before the Raiders could even finish celebrating that bit of good news, Sproles returned the ensuing kickoff to the 35. The Chargers were unable to get a first down, but Kaeding didn't miss this kick, giving San Diego the lead.

Analysis: Offensively, Sproles had six carries for 12 yards and one reception for five yards. Sproles was very active on offense the last few weeks as LaDainian Tomlinson was nursing a toe injury. Well, L.T. is getting close to 100 percent and that's bad news for Sproles. He still remains more of a Fantasy handcuff heading into Week 5 against the Dolphins. Only start him as a 'flex' option in the deepest of leagues.

9/25/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has little history vs. OAK

News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson will face the Raiders in Week 4. The Raiders rank 13th in rushing defense through three weeks, allowing 104.0 yards per game. Tomlinson totaled 254 yards on 40 carries in two games against the Raiders last season. He scored four touchdowns. Backup Darren Sproles had just two carries for 20 yards against Oakland last season.

Analysis: L.T. usually puts up big numbers no matter who is facing, but his biggest numbers last year came against the Raiders and the Chiefs. He got into the end zone the most against the Raiders. He's still dealing with a toe injury, but expect him to suit up against a division rival he fares very well against in Week 4. Sproles would only be a recommended Fantasy option if L.T. can't go. He has little history against the Raiders because he used to be third on the depth chart behind Michael Turner. He's must-have L.T. insurance, though.

9/23/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles sees some touches as backup

News: Even though Chargers RB Darren Sproles didn't start in place of LaDainian Tomlinson Week 3 against the Jets, he did see some touches on offense during a 48-29 win. Sproles was waiting to see if Tomlinson, who is nursing a lingering toe injury, would be inactive against the Jets. He was not, so Sproles remained the backup running back. He rushed five times for 38 yards, including a long gain of 21 yards. He also had two catches for 39 yards.

Analysis: If ever L.T. wasn't ready to play, the Chargers would have full faith in Sproles carrying the rushing load. They saw in Week 2 against the Broncos that he was capable of that job. However, as long as L.T. plays, Sproles will remain in a backup role. Consider him nothing more than a low-end Fantasy 'flex' player for Week 4 against the Raiders.

9/22/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles not expected to start

News: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson is active and expected to start Week 3 vs. N.Y. Jets, according to a San Diego official at Qualcomm Stadium. Tomlinson was questionable on the injury report because of a toe injury that has bothered him since Week 1. He has not yet missed a game, but only practiced in a limited role Friday. Darren Sproles would have started in Tomlinson's place had he not been able to dress.

Analysis: Sproles had a great game against the Broncos in Week 2 and even scored the game-winning touchdown against Denver while L.T. was nursing his toe injury. He still could see touches Week 3, but since he won't be in a featured role, he is just a low-end Fantasy RB.

9/19/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles might have to start

News: LaDainian Tomlinson returned to practice in a limited role Friday and is listed as questionable for the San Diego Chargers' game against the New York Jets on Monday night. Tomlinson, who jammed his right big toe in the season-opening loss to Carolina, missed practice the previous two days. "It went OK," Tomlinson said. "I did what I wanted to do. I didn't expect to do full participation but I wanted to get out and do some stuff running the football. It definitely is a lot better than last week. That's the exciting part about it. But at that same time, I'm going to be realistic about it. I'm pretty sure on Monday, I'll probably still have a little problem with it but it will be a week better." If Tomlinson can't play, Darren Sproles is expected to start in his place.

Analysis: Tomlinson aggravated the toe during the second quarter of Sunday's loss to Denver. Sproles started the second half, though Tomlinson did see limited action during the final two quarters. Coach Norv Turner said Tomlinson was "limited" during Friday's practice. Turner said he isn't sure how much Tomlinson will be able to contribute. "I don't think you know until you get into the game, and that's why you have to have flexibility in your plan," Turner said. One thing working in Tomlinson's favor is an extra day of recovery time. Sproles had a career day Week 2 against the Broncos, piling up 317 all-purpose yards on 14 touches, including a 103-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the first half and a 66-yard catch-and-run for the go-ahead score with 4:22 remaining. Sproles is likely to see some touches Week 3, even if L.T. is active, so he might be worth the gamble in larger formats. Continue to stay tuned until Monday's inactives.

9/17/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles waiting on L.T.'s status

News: With his toe injury lingering, LaDainian Tomlinson sat out Wednesday's short practice as the winless San Diego Chargers began preparing for their home game against Brett Favre and the New York Jets on Monday night. Tomlinson, who has yet to find his way into the end zone this season, said his jammed right big toe isn't as sore as it has been, but he didn't sound overly confident. "Well, with another day of rest and treatment, it's feeling a little better today, so hopefully, I'm just going to play it by ear this week, see how it feels later in the week," he said. "I'm hoping that it's going to make big progress this week and by Monday night hopefully I'll be as close to 100 percent as possible." If Tomlinson can't play, Darren Sproles is expected to see reps in his place.

Analysis: Sproles had a career day Week 2 against the Broncos, piling up 317 all-purpose yards on 14 touches, including a 103-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the first half and a 66-yard catch-and-run for the go-ahead score with 4:22 remaining. With Michael Turner down in Atlanta, Sproles has assumed the role of Tomlinson's backup. It is usually a non-existent part unless L.T. is injured, which he is right now. If L.T. is active, Sproles is not worth starting in Fantasy. If L.T. is inactive, then consider Sproles a one-week Fantasy sleeper.

9/14/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has 317 all-purpose yards

News: With LaDainian Tomlinson slowed by a jammed right big toe, Chargers backup RB Darren Sproles had a career day Week 2 against the Broncos, piling up 317 all-purpose yards on 14 touches, including a 103-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the first half and a 66-yard catch-and-run for the go-ahead score with 4:22 remaining. Sproles took a short pass from Philip Rivers and raced through the Broncos' befuddled defense to put the Chargers on top 36-31. Legedu Naanee's catch for the 2-point conversion made it 38-31. Sproles led the team with 56 rushing yards on seven carries. He also finished with two catches for 72 yards.

Analysis: With Michael Turner down in Atlanta, Sproles has assumed the role of Tomlinson's backup. It is usually a non-existent part unless L.T. is injured, which he is right now. L.T. played through the toe injury, but clearly wasn't his normal self. He will likely be questionable leading up to Week 3 against the Jets, so Sproles' owners need to pay attention. If L.T. is out, Sproles could be a nice Fantasy option Week 3.

9/7/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles can't punch in TD

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had two carries for three yards during a Week 1 loss to the Panthers. Sproles even got a carry near the goal line late in the fourth quarter, but was stuffed for a 1-yard gain.

Analysis: Sproles remains a backup running back to LaDainian Tomlinson, but does most of his damage on special teams for San Diego. Sproles remains nothing more than a handcuff Fantasy option for L.T. owners. The Chargers play the Broncos Week 2.

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8/26/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles wins job

News: The North County Times reports Chargers RB Darren Sproles locked up the job to be LaDainian Tomlinson's backup with his performance Monday night. Sproles gained 102 yards on 13 carries. He had 94 yards on 10 first-half carries. "There has not been any question in my mind," Chargers coach Norv Turner said of whether Sproles can be counted on for heavy duty. "That question got answered a year ago after the Detroit game (when Sproles rushed for 122 yards). You need all your guys. Darren is an explosive player. There are certain runs that he's very, very comfortable with. We obviously get L.T. back and playing, and then mix in Sprolesy and Jacob (Hester), and I think we're going to have a good group there." Hester will likely take the role of goal-line back if Tomlinson were hurt.

Analysis: This is a good sign to draft Sproles as the handcuff to Tomlinson, but Hester also remains worthy of a late-round pick. If Tomlinson got hurt, both would share the load, but it appears Sproles would get more carries.

8/26/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles explodes for 102 yards

News: Darren Sproles is making a strong bid to back up NFL rushing champ LaDainian Tomlinson. Sproles ran for 102 yards and a touchdown in his most extensive preseason work, and the San Diego Chargers scored a late touchdown and 2-point conversion to beat the Seattle Seahawks 18-17 on Monday night. With Tomlinson a preseason no-show as he gets ready for the regular season, the most heated battle on the Chargers remains between Sproles and rookie Jacob Hester for the No. 2 job. Score Round 3 for Sproles, the 5-foot-6, 181-pounder who's been plagued by durability questions all the way back to college. "There has not been any question in my mind," Chargers coach Norv Turner said. "You need all your guys. Darren is an explosive player. There are certain runs that he is very comfortable with. We'll get L.T. back and playing. Mix in Sproles and mix in Jacob and I think we will have a good group there."

Analysis: Tomlinson, the two-time rushing champion, was out of the lineup as usual for the preseason. But with Hester getting more work in San Diego's first two preseason games, Sproles carried the bigger load against the Seahawks. "I thought (Sproles) showed that he was really versatile with what he can do," said Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers. "It was good for him to get in there with the first group and get some work." Sproles did most of his damage in the first half with 94 yards on 10 carries. He scored on a 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. When looking at a handcuff option to Tomlinson, still draft Sproles ahead of Hester, but both are worth taking with a late-round pick.

8/16/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Hester leads Chargers in rushing

News: San Diego backup RB Jacob Hester is looking more and more like he might be LaDainian Tomlinson's handcuff in 2008. Hester led the way for the Chargers in rushing on Saturday against the Rams with 12 carries for 59 yards. Darren Sproles, thought to be the guy who will start the year as the main backup, was outdone by Hester again. Sproles ran for just three yards on two carries.

Analysis: When looking at a handcuff option to Tomlinson, still draft Sproles ahead of Hester, but both are worth taking with a late-round pick. Hester might find the end zone more often, but Sproles would likely get more carries if L.T. were to get hurt.

8/12/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Two backs have L.T.'s back

News: The North County Times is reporting that it appears that two backs, and not one, will have LaDainian Tomlinson's back in 2008, with Darren Sproles and Jacob Hester serving as the replacement for Michael Turner. The paper reports Sproles continues to thrill coaches and teammates every time he touches the ball. And Hester is more of a masher than a speedster, not shy about sticking his nose in the middle of the line to get the tough yards. While Tomlinson doesn't need any assistance near the goal line, Hester could also fill that role. But Hester likely will grind out those third-and-short carries that are so critical to sustaining drives ---- although not a spot to expose a future Hall of Fame back like L.T. Hester will also earn his pay late in games, helping the Chargers kill the clock.

8/10/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Hester outshines Sproles Saturday

News: In San Diego's competition for the No. 2 running back behind LaDainian Tomlinson Saturday against the Cowboys, the Chargers look to have two good options. The starter was Darren Sproles, who finished with five carries for seven yards. But Jacob Hester wasn't far behind Sproles and the two traded carries throughout the entire first half. Hester -- who scored the game's first touchdown, a one-yard run -- was easily the better of the two Saturday. Hester finished with 13 carries for 49 yards and two TDs. Sproles added a five-yard TD run.

Analysis: Sproles, in our opinion, is the player who will end up with the backup nod, but Hester is certainly making a case for himself. Hester has also shown that he has what it takes at the goal line, which could improve his Fantasy value immensely. Keep an eye on the competition with Sproles and Hester even though both will likely see carries. For now, draft Sproles with a late-round pick in all leagues, and leave Hester to be drafted in rookie-only drafts, but that could change so continue to check back.

7/31/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles, Hester in close battle

News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Chargers RB Darren Sproles and Jacob Hester should be considered 2 and 2A on the depth chart behind LaDainian Tomlinson. They are trying to replace the departed Michael Turner.

Analysis: Keep an eye on the competition with Sproles and Hester even though both will likely see carries. Still, Sproles is the player worth handcuffing to Tomlinson in the event Tomlison got hurt. That's when Sproles would have the most Fantasy value. For now, draft Sproles with a late-round pick in all leagues, and leave Hester to be drafted in rookie-only drafts.

7/28/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles hopes to win job

News: Once an afterthought as an NFL running back, Darren Sproles has a legitimate shot to be LaDainian Tomlinson's primary backup this season, reports the North County Times. Sproles is competing with rookie Jacob Hester to replace the departed Michael Turner as the Chargers' backup to Tomlinson. "Darren proved to me in the last seven or eight games that he can be a guy that has an impact on the game and an impact on every game," coach Norv Turner said Sunday. "That's our job as coaches, to give him an opportunity to do that. That's not going to happen every week, but he certainly is a guy that can change games." Sproles' primary role last season was as a return specialist. Sproles also became an asset on offense late in the season. He rushed for 122 yards and two touchdowns in a mid-December victory over Detroit, and came up huge during January's playoff win at Indianapolis by catching a short screen pass and turning it into a 56-yard touchdown.

2/15/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles to backup L.T.

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles will likely be the primary backup to LaDainain Tomlinson in 2008 with Michael Turner expected to leave as a free agent. Sproles split the job with Turner in 2007 and finished with 164 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Sproles also plays a role on special teams as the main return man. He had a punt and kickoff return for a score in 2007.

Analysis: Sproles will likely be the player you want to handcuff to Tomlinson in 2008. Keep an eye on what happens with Turner and any other moves done, but Sproles could have value as a No. 4 Fantasy RB in 2008.

1/13/2008

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles makes only catch really count

News: Chargers return specialist Darren Sproles had only one run and one catch in Sunday's AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Colts, but made his catch count as he took a screen pass from Philip Rivers and zoomed 56 yards down the sideline for a touchdown in San Diego's upset victory.

Analysis: Sproles doesn't get many offensive touches with the Chargers, but he has the speed and explosiveness to turn any short pass into a big gainer like he did on Sunday. He won't be much use as an RB in the rest of the playoffs, or in 2008 unless he starts to get more touches in San Diego.

12/25/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles runs for 17 yards News: San Diego RB Darren Sproles had six carries for 17 yards and four catches for 7 yards Monday against Denver. Analysis: Sproles is a No. 2 RB for the Chargers and has minimal Fantasy value. He may get some extra carries in Week 17 at Oakland if the Chargers rest LaDainian Tomlinson, so you might consider using him in deep leagues.

12/16/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Darren Sproles outproduced LaDainian

News: Playing much of the second half thanks to San Diego building a big lead and Michael Turner leaving with an injury, backup Chargers RB Darren Sproles had 25 carries for 122 yards and two touchdowns vs. Detroit in Week 15. Sproles also had a 13-yard catch.

Analysis: Sproles is a very small, very shifty and speedy running back that won't see much playing time unless LaDainian Tomlinson takes a breather down the stretch to save himself for the playoffs. He's worth a roster spot behind LT in Fantasy leagues, particularly if Michael Turner's injury is serious.

12/9/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Chargers inactives listed News: Chargers inactives for Week 14 at Tennessee include: DL Luis Castillo, QB Charlie Whitehurst, RB Darren Sproles, LB Anthony Waters, WR Malcom Floyd and TE Scott Chandler. Analysis: Whitehurst will serve as the team's No. 3/emergency QB. The rest of these inactives aren't worth owning in Fantasy play.

11/25/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles carries rock twice News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles carried the ball two times for one yard during a Week 12 win over the Ravens. He has just four carries for five yards this season. Analysis: Sproles does most of his work on special teams for the Chargers and has zero Fantasy value outside of leagues that reward for kick returns. The Chargers play the Chiefs in Week 13.

11/18/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles has two catches

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles had two catches for no yards Sunday against Jacksonville. He also had two kickoff returns for 15 yards and three punt returns for 17.1 yards.

Analysis: Sproles got more action than Michael Turner as the No. 2 RB for the Chargers, which is worth keeping an eye on. Still, Sproles biggest value is on special teams, and he should not be used as a Fantasy RB in Week 12 against Baltimore.

11/12/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles gets two special teams TDs

News: Special teams specialty Darren Sproles returned both a kick and a punt for touchdowns in the first quarter Week 10 against the Colts. The kick return went for 89 yards and the punt return for 45. He finished with 170 return yards total.

Analysis: Unfortunately, individual special teams stats don't often count in Fantasy, which relegates Sproles to nothing more than a third-string running back. Keep him on waivers for Week 11 at Jacksonville.

11/5/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Three Chargers go statless News: RB Darren Sproles, FB Lorenzo Neal and backup QB Billy Volek both played in San Diego's 35-17 loss to the Vikings in Week 9 but didn't record an offensive statistic. Analysis: None of these players has any Fantasy value at this time. The Chargers host the Colts in Week 10.

10/28/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Darren Sproles gets a two-yard carry News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles ran once for two yards against the Texans in Week 8. He also had 71 return yards. Analysis: Sproles is not someone to consider at running back in Fantasy, especially since the Chargers have a capable backup to LaDainian Tomlinson in Michael Turner. The Chargers visit the Vikings in Week 9.

10/14/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

RB/KR Sproles does very little

News: Darren Sproles did not record any offensive statistics in Week 6 against the Raiders, but he had three punt returns for 29 yards and a kickoff return for 18 yards.

Analysis: Sproles is not someone to consider in Fantasy leagues as a running back, especially since the Chargers have a capable backup to LaDainian Tomlinson in Michael Turner. The Chargers host the Texans in Week 8 after its bye week.

10/7/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Neal, Sproles assist in run game News: Chargers FB Lorenzo Neal (3-yard rush) and RB Darren Sproles (2-yard rush) helped the team run over the Broncos in Week 5. Backup QB Billy Volek also had two kneel-downs for minus-2 yards. Analysis: None of these players are Fantasy relevant and shouldn't be used vs. Oakland in Week 6.

9/30/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles catches 14-yard pass

News: Chargers RB Darren Sproles caught one pass for 14 yards during a Week 4 loss to the Chiefs. It was his first reception of the season.

Analysis: Sproles is mostly used as a special teams player for the Chargers and won't see many stats unless the Chargers are devastated with injuries at running back. Ignore him in Fantasy leagues. The Chargers play the Broncos in Week 5.

9/17/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles has posts no stats News: Rookie WR Craig Davis, TE Brandon Manumaleuna, FB-WR Legedu Naanee, WR Kassim Osgood and RB-KR Darren Sproles all played in Week 2 at New England and did not record any offensive statistics. Analysis: Davis and Naanee has some potential for the future, but none of the players mentioned above should be starting in Fantasy leagues for Week 3 at Green Bay.

9/11/2007	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Chargers backups expected to play News: According to the San Diego Union-Tribune Darren Sproles (concussion), strong safety Clinton Hart (quad bruise) and backup fullback and special teamer Andrew Pinnock (hamstring strain) are expected to play at New England in Week 2. Analysis: Hart is the only starter in this group, and even he isn't worth using in any IDP leagues.

9/9/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Bolts players don't get a stat

News: Notable Chargers who were active and dressed but didn't record an offensive stat vs. Chicago in Week 1 include: FB Andrew Pinnock, RB Darren Sproles, RB/WR Legedu Naanee, WR Malcom Floyd, WR Kassim Osgood and backup QB Billy Volek.

Analysis: Naanee and Floyd have some potential but aren't worth owning in Fantasy play. The rest are waiver-wire types. Don't expect any of these guys to perform at New England in Week 2.

8/30/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles very likely to stick

News: Darren Sproles was once a longshot to make the team. No more, according to The Sports Xchange, after an impressive summer that included two touchdowns. "I would say Darren has a chance to help us win football games this year," said coach Norv Turner, all but confirming Sproles has a spot.

Analysis: Sproles is effective because of his quickness and ability to change direction. Still, he is likely to do most of his work on special teams and can be ignored in most Fantasy leagues. Michael Turner is the backup to LaDainian Tomlinson in San Diego.

8/30/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles locks up roster spot

News: Remember Darren Sproles, the speedy little running back from Kansas State? He's come scampering all the way back from a broken leg, providing some sizzle for the San Diego Chargers in an otherwise meaningless exhibition season during which LaDainian Tomlinson has been a spectator. Sproles has had a spectacular August, all but winning a spot on the 53-man roster with one game left, Thursday night at home against the San Francisco 49ers. "I would say Darren has a chance of helping us win football games this year, yes," said new Chargers coach Norv Turner, who was San Francisco's offensive coordinator last year.

Analysis: The 5-foot-6, 181-pound Sproles has looked good running the ball and catching it. He's really shined at his specialty, returning punts and kickoffs. "I would say he's back in a blaze of glory in returns," said general manager A.J. Smith, who took Sproles in the fourth round of the 2005 draft. "We're pleased with what we've seen." Sproles had to prove himself all over again after breaking his left leg returning a punt in an exhibition game last summer. He missed all of 2006, when the Chargers went an NFL-best 14-2 before losing their playoff opener to New England. Sproles is effective because of his quickness and ability to change direction. "He is just hard to tackle in space. He is a great competitor," Turner said. Still, he is likely to do most of his work on special teams and can be ignored in most Fantasy leagues.

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8/13/2007

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

RB Sproles totals 99 yards

News: Darren Sproles, who missed all of last season after breaking his left leg on a punt return in an exhibition game exactly a year earlier, had a nice preseason game on Sunday. He carried seven times for 63 yards and caught four passes for 36 yards.

Analysis: Sproles appears to have cemented himself as the No. 3 running back on the Chargers depth chart behind LaDainian Tomlinson and Michael Turner. Sproles might see a handful of touches during the season, but his Fantasy value is limited to the deepest formats at this point. He is especially attractive in leagues which credit return yardage.

8/15/2006

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles goes on injured reserve

News: Chargers kick returner Darren Sproles will be out for the season with a broken left leg and the team revealed Tuesday that wide receiver Vincent Jackson has been hospitalized since Saturday night with a bruised chest.

Analysis: Sproles was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday, a day after having surgery on his fractured fibula. He can be ignored in all Fantasy formats this season.

8/13/2006	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles leaves Saturday's game News: Darren Sproles left Saturday's preseason game against the Packers in the first quarter due to a sprained ankle. X-rays were negative. Analysis: Sproles is his considered day to day. His role in the offense might expand this season, but not significantly enough for Fantasy consideration.

1/11/2006	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles rolls for 60 yards News: Chargers rookie RB Darren Sproles rushed for 50 yards and caught three passes for 10 more in 2005. He was mainly a factor on special teams and not helpful to the offense. Analysis: Sproles' role may expand this offseason, but not significantly enough for Fantasy consideration.

12/24/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	No stats for Darren Sproles News: Darren Sproles didn't record an offensive statistic in Week 16. Analysis: He's not a viable Fantasy option for Week 17.

12/18/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	No stats for Darren Sproles News: Darren Sproles didn't record an offensive statistic in Sunday's 26-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts. Analysis: Sproles has no value in Fantasy Football.

12/11/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles not an offensive factor News: Darren Sproles did not record an offensive stat in Week 14 vs. Miami. Analysis: Sproles is used as a kick returner and has no Fantasy appeal.

12/5/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles gets a few carries News: Darren Sproles, one of the top kick returners this season, had two unproductive carries in a Week 13 win over the Raiders. Analysis: Sproles is a nice return specialist for the 'Bolts but has little individual value in Fantasy Football heading into Week 14.

11/29/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles has little value News: Darren Sproles has received just two carries in his past five contests for San Diego. Analysis: Sporles is a nice return specialist for the 'Bolts but has little individual value in Fantasy Football.

10/21/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles able to practice News: Darren Sproles (ankle) practiced Friday but remains questionable for the Week 7. He is expected to be active. Analysis: Sproles is not a recommended starter against the Philadelphia Eagles.

10/20/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Darren Sproles questionable News: Darren Sproles (ankle) has been listed as questionable for Week 7 at Philadelphia. Analysis: Sproles is not a recommended starter in most leagues.

10/11/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles able to play in Week 5 News: Darren Sproles (ankle) was able to return in Week 5 against the Steelers. He had five kickoff returns for 157 yards. Analysis: Sproles is a dominant kick returner, but he is not a useful Fantasy running back.

10/2/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Darren Sproles injured News: Darren Sproles left Sunday's game at New England in the second half with an injured ankle. Analysis: His return to the contest is questionable.

8/12/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles gets 13 touches vs. GB News: Darren Sproles had seven carries and six receptions for a total of 57 yards against the Packers in the Bolts' first preseason game. Analysis: It's a sign that San Diego will use Sproles as a role player during the regular season. In a league that counts receptions, Sproles is worth a late-round flier.

7/28/2005

Darren Sproles, RB, NO

Sproles' roles increasing

News: The Union-Tribune reported that Darren Sproles is now not only being considered as a return specialist and backup running back, but may also spell Tomlinson and even line up with Tomlinson on some plays. This after impressing coaches all offseason and after former backup Jesse Chatman getting cut.

Analysis: Sproles won't sneak carries away from LT, but he will touch the ball a total of five times a game (including kickoffs). He's a must-draft for those owners who take Tomlinson in the first round.

7/26/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles San Diego's No. 2 RB? News: A day after signing his first NFL deal, the Chargers released veteran RB Jesse Chatman, paving the way for Sproles to be San Diego's No. 2 running back behind LaDainian Tomlinson. Analysis: Make sure you keep an eye out for Sproles if you use your first-round pick on Tomlinson. He can be snagged for a late-round pick.

7/25/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles signs four-year deal News: The Chargers announced that fourth-round pick Darren Sproles signed a four-year contract and will be in training camp on time. Analysis: Sproles will compete for a backup RB spot and will probably be used on special teams as well. He has no significant Fantasy value at this time.

5/24/2005	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
	Sproles impressives teammates News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Darren Sproles has impressed Chargers defenders in minicamp. Analysis: Sproles would have to unseat LaDainian Tomlinson's backup, Jesse Chatman, to have any value in drafts.

12/31/1969	Darren Sproles, RB, NO
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