Explosive Miami RB Kenyan Drake’s fantasy stock was already pointing upward after his two greatest 2018 thorns were removed: Adam Gase and Frank Gore. Now, after he exits the 2019 NFL Draft with minimal competition and beefy lineman additions, Drake’s fantasy value continues to climb. Though new HC Brian Flores has already said every player will need to earn their usage, this Patriots-influenced scheme should feature plenty of RB volume, especially in the passing game; Drake’s path to the lionshare of touches appears clear. Newly-acquired QB Josh Rosen could also propel this offense to far more scoring if he realizes his potential. These expected Usage and Scheme boosts, and potential Surrounding Talent gains, should allow Drake to capitalize upon his high-end athleticism and become a major fantasy factor in 2019.
Indeed, Drake will need to beat out Kalen Ballage, as well as sixth-round rookie Myles Gaskin, for the largest slice of Miami Ground PIe. Plus, Chad O’Shea’s offense will likely feature multiple backs given New England’s committee roots. Sill, O’Shea has already promised to use his RBs as a foundation, noting:
“The back is an important part of the offense… you look at the Dolphins’ roster right now, [and] it’s exciting to look at the backs. Competitively playing against those backs in New England that are in Miami now, it’s been a group that has a lot of strengths, and I can’t wait to work with them.”
Drake, who has been watching tape on James White, is incredibly encouraged, praising this offense’s ability “get the ball to running backs in check-down situations” allowing them “make the person miss and take it the distance every time..get into the zone or lose leverage to my advantage. To free up space for me to make plays.”
Playmaking is certainly one of Drake’s calling cards, and a White-style role would allow his ability to make tacklers miss and zip up the field flourish.
Though the line is a major liability, the Dolphins were clearly intent on improving their blocking, investing three of only six total picks into two lineman (3rd round guard Michael Deiter & 6th round Tackle Isaiah Prince) and a fullback (Chandler Cox).
With minimal competition for touches inside a scheme that’ll maximize his explosive skill-set, Drake could blow-up in 2019. He’s risen to 47 Overall on my latest 2019 Fantasy Football Big Board — 21 spots higher than the “Experts.”
