Things change very quickly in the NFL.
Although Arizona Cardinals running back Andre Ellington struggled through a disappointing season last year, he was still expected to be a solid contributor in fantasy football (especially in PPR leagues) as the team's top back. But a Week 1 injury opened the door for veteran Chris Johnson to convince the world he had found the fountain of youth. Now, Johnson is second in the NFL in rushing yards (567), 10th in rushing touchdowns (3), eighth in yards per carry (5.1) and third in runs of at least 20 yards (3).
That has left Ellington owners in a difficult spot as he has not topped 63 total yards in his last three games. Fortunately, Ellington along with the rest of his Cardinal running mates are all in for a big day this week against the Cleveland Browns.
"This is the week to load up on Arizona Cardinals offensive players," ESPN's Pat McManamon wrote. "The Browns are dead last in the league in rushing defense, 28th overall. Pick your Cardinals player. Running back Chris Johnson, play him. Running back Andre Ellington, play him. Receiver Larry Fitzgerald facing Joe Haden coming off a concussion, a Joe Haden who has yet to be his Pro Bowl self this season - definitely play him. Michael Floyd, Carson Palmer, John Brown - submit their names. Factor in that this is a game Bruce Arians would love to win if only to show Cleveland what it missed by not hiring him and any potential Cardinals player is a must-play. Until the Browns stop someone, that is the situation."
While Johnson will remain the top dog in Arizona's backfield, there is more than enough opportunity in this matchup to get Ellington going as well. Opposing running backs have racked up 33 receptions for 353 yards and one touchdown against the Browns this year. Ellington could see around five catches for upwards of 50 yards in addition to whatever work he gets on the ground. He's a solid play in PPR leagues.
