Spencer Ware

Fantasy Football Week 1: Spencer Ware Breakdown

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Is it time to get Kansas City Chiefs running back Spencer Ware in your fantasy football lineup?

The NFL season is almost here, and we all know what that means: fantasy football! The drafts are complete, but before setting your Week 1 lineup, it is important to consider all options. Among those expected options should be Kansas City Chiefs running back Spencer Ware.

With Jamaal Charles still recovering from his knee injury suffered last season, Ware is expected to receive a bulk of the work for the Chiefs in their Week 1 match-up against the San Diego Chargers. Throughout the offseason, Charles seemed to have a solid chance to start the season healthy. However, recent comments made by Chiefs head coach Andy Reid have put that status in doubt.

“Yeah, Jamaal has to keep working through it—it would be a stretch for him to play on Sunday,” Reid said, according to Terez Paylor of the Kansas City Star. “We’ll see how it goes, though.”

Reid certainly did not count out Charles, but it does seem like the Chiefs will be without their star back at least for one week. Charles being out means an increased workload for Ware and Charcandrick West, just like the end of last season.

Ware is the more powerful back who established himself as the early down back for the Chiefs with Charles out last season. As long as Charles is out, Ware will step back into that role for the Chiefs this season.

With an increased workload down the stretch, Ware rushed for 403 yards and six touchdowns on 72 carries last season. He was a stable performer for the Chiefs, averaging an incredible 5.6 yards per carry. Ware also showed an ability to blend power and quickness last season, becoming a big-time threat for the Chiefs in the running game. With an improved offensive line, I expect to see more of the same out of Ware this season.

Ware is specifically a fantastic fantasy football option for Week 1.

The Chargers allowed 125.3 yards per game on the ground last season, making them a less than impressive 27th ranked unit. Also, according to ESPN.com, the Chargers allowed the fifth-most points to opposing running backs in fantasy football last season.

While this is certainly a new season, the Chargers did not make enough changes to significantly improve their rush defense. The Chargers will continue to struggle against the run, making Ware a strong fantasy football option in Week 1.

You probably didn’t draft him to be a starter. However, Spencer Ware must be in your Week 1 fantasy football lineup. Do not hesitate to get him in there.