Fantasy Fallout: Stashing Adrian Peterson could pay huge dividends
Follow theScore's fantasy feed on Twitter (@theScoreFantasy) for the latest news, features and more. And download Squad Up, theScore's free-to-win-money sports game.
Here are the fantasy repercussions following the news that Vikings RB Adrian Peterson could return to action in the middle of December:
Adrian Peterson continues to close in on a return from knee surgery, and could be back next month: https://t.co/sB2ik5xulx
— Ben Goessling (@GoesslingESPN) November 21, 2016
Peterson has a history of recovering quicker than expected from significant injuries, so it shouldn't come as a major surprise that he is eyeing a mid-December return, meaning he could be back in time for Week 15.
Most fantasy football leagues run their playoffs from Weeks 14-16. Some points leagues tend to run all the way through Week 17.
If your fantasy team has clinched a playoff spot, or is on the verge of doing so, then go ahead and plaice a waiver claim on Peterson immediately. Even if your team is still fighting for a playoff spot, he is worth adding if you have a player on your bench that you don't necessarily need.
At this point in the season, it is worth spending over 50 percent of your remaining FAAB budget on Peterson if you have a hole at running back. I wouldn't recommend going over 80 percent of your remaining FAAB budget, as a lot can happen in the coming weeks.
If Peterson is able to return in time for Week 15 (Dec. 18) and handle first- and second-down work, it wouldn't be surprising to see him do some significant damage. Here is how Minnesota's schedule plays out over the final three weeks of the season (FPA RB = fantasy points against to running backs):
If the Vikings deem that Peterson is fully healthy by Week 15, they probably wouldn't hesitate to unleash him. Time is running out for Peterson considering he is 31 years old. The Vikings have a Super Bowl caliber defense and could definitely make some noise in the playoffs if they are able to get there.
Minnesota's offense has struggled this season, specifically the running game. There's no guarantee Peterson would solve the rushing attack woes considering his age, injury history and Minnesota's weak offensive line. However, the team would seemingly have no choice but to hitch their wagon to the future Hall of Famer and see how far he can carry them.