Willie Parker Injury Update – Fantasy View
August 8, 2009 by Stephen Kersey
Filed under Fantasy Football Tips, Injuries, NFL Player Analysis
Willie Parker, the starting running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, reportedly missed a recent practice due to back spasms. Although the Steelers don’t think the injury is serious, they decided to be cautious about the situation.
In fantasy football, Willie Parker’s value seems to be on the decline. Last year, Parker only had a decent season. He rushed for 791 yards and five touchdowns in 11 games. It was the first time in three seasons that he had less than 1,200 rushing yards. Perhaps most damning is the fact that he had a yards per rush average of 3.8 yards — and that number has declined each season in his career.
If Parker struggles at all, the Steelers will take a look at Rashard Mendenhall. Last year, Mendenhall was drafted in the first round and it’s thought that he’ll eventually become the team’s starting running back. However, his rookie season wasn’t too impressive — 58 rushing yards on 19 carries and a season-ending shoulder injury.
If you pick Parker in fantasy football, be sure to handcuff Mendenhall.
