2008 Fantasy Football Player Profile-Larry Johnson

RB Larry Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs

2007 Stats: 559 rushing yards, 186 receiving yards, 4 total TDs
Projected 2008 Stats: 1317 rushing yards, 320 receiving yards, 14 total TDs
Projected Fantasy Round: 1st Round
Running backs to be picked ahead of Larry Johnson: LaDainian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, and Joseph Addai

Fantasy Outlook:

Why you should draft Larry Johnson: This year, Johnson could slide out of the top five in a lot of fantasy drafts, which could end up being a steal for a player that is just one year removed from his second straight season of over 1700 rushing yards.   In 2007, Johnson was only able to play in eight games, but he was able to eclipse the century mark in rushing yards in three contests.

Why you may want to stay away from drafting Larry Johnson: Johnson is coming off an injury-plagued season, and coach Herm Edwards has already stated that he will be given less touches this year in efforts to keep him healthy.  In addition, Johnson will have to face opposing defenses that are going to stack the box to try and stop him, forcing the Chiefs to try and beat them with their less than stellar quarterbacks.

Bottom Line: Johnson should rush for quadruple figures again this season if he stays healthy, but don’t be surprised if his touches and yards per carry decrease significantly.   With that being said, Johnson should still be viewed as a No.1 running back in fantasy, and he is a much better bargain this year than he was last year.