The Atlanta Falcons, once stacked with playmakers on both sides of the ball, are now digging into their depth for help as injuries have ravaged the starting lineup. The defense is a mess after Sean Weatherspoon and Kroy Biermann were both placed on injured reserve. Roddy White's ankle injury was the first hit to the offense and now Steven Jackson could be missing time, hurting the Falcons' run game and fantasy football rosters alike.
Jackson's touchdown against the St. Louis Rams on Sunday was met with a trip to the locker room after the running back sustained a thigh injury. His return was deemed questionable, but the former Ram did not return for the remainder of the game. He finished the day with three rushes for zero yards and one reception for eight yards and a touchdown. NFL.com reports the Falcons have listed Jackson as week-to-week, but reports suggest that he could miss upwards of two to four weeks with the injury.
The loss of Jackson hurts fantasy teams everywhere. The running back was supposed to be a key member in the Falcons' offensive scheme after the team said goodbye to Michael Turner. First thing is first, with Jackson out, the passing game will become a focus. Tight end Tony Gonzalez and Julio Jones will be relied on heavily. Harry Douglass will see an increased role as well as White continues to get healthy from the high-ankle sprain.
However, when it comes time to run, Jacquizz Rodgers well become the man. Owners should consider picking up the third-year back off waivers if available. Jason Snelling is also a strong option. Rodgers is well-equipped to handle the starting role of running back. He is versatile enough and can play Darren Sproles-like back catching passes. Last season Rodgers put up over 360 yards in a back role as well as 400 yards through the air. He is explosive and can help open up the playbook.
Snelling could be a solid sleeper pickup. With Bradie Ewing out for the season, Snelling will take over the fullback role while also being used as a situational back. The running back does not see a lot of playing time on the field. So far this year, he has put up 19 yards on two carries and a touchdown. He has also had six catches for 58 yards. When given the opportunity, he can be productive.
