Matt Breida has flown largely under the fantasy radar this offseason. However, with Jerick McKinnon officially out for 2019, Breida’s path to serious 2019 fantasy value is clear. In fact, he’s my pick to be the Ultimate Bargain RB this year.
A backfield that once appeared to be a three-headed nightmare has become much clearer. Now, Breida and Tevin Coleman are the clear cut top RBs for Kyle Shanahan‘s invaluable gig. His zone-blocking scheme has crafted 1,500+ yard monsters out of nobodies, and both Coleman and Breida fit to perfection.
In fact, of the two, Breida may just be the better back. Somewhat surprisingly, the 49ers listed him atop the depth chart, suggesting they share that sentiment.
Breida’s certainly flashed superiority, especially in their Week 3 Dress Rehearsal. He racked up 75 yards and a TD on nine touches (2 receptions), as compared to 21 yards on 10 touches for Coleman. Most impressively, Breida’s score came on a reception out of the slot, confirming Training Camp reports he had been “moved all over the place.”
Granted, even before the depth chart news, I was calling for Breida to rush for 1,200 yards. He was leading the league in rushing through three weeks last year, and his prime acceleration and vision in the holes makes him perfect.
Going around Pick 100, Breida is a steal. He’s the RB falling below Round 7 that’ll win leagues in 2019.
