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When the Atlanta Falcons managed to sign RB Steven Jackson this off-season, not many fantasy football owners thought much of it.
Jackson led the St. Louis Rams in rushing yards in seven consecutive seasons and was one of the best after-contact backs in the league. However, he has been continually overlooked in drafts this season despite moving to much better team. Jackson is currently falling well into the second round in standard fantasy drafts and it has made him one of the best value picks after the first round.
Jackson has a chance to put up career numbers in Atlanta though. QB Matt Ryan put up insane numbers last season with 4,719 passing yards and 32 touchdowns. He can constantly stretch the field with WR Julio Jones and WR Roddy White on the outside, which will only open up more running lanes for S-Jax to run through. The veteran back should easily eclipse 10 touchdowns in Atlanta’s high-powered offense.
In the team’s second preseason game, Jackson looked amazing. The former Oregon State standout rushed the ball eight times for 42 yards, including an 11-yard scamper. He was bouncing off blockers and not afraid the lower his shoulder. It was vintage S-Jax.
Jackson may have turned 30 years old this July, but the veteran still has a lot left in his legs. He has only played in two playoff games throughout his entire career and the fact that he has only carried the ball 19 times in the postseason will help him stay healthier over the final years of his career.
Jackson has amazing value anywhere in the second round in standard fantasy drafts. He is a reliable veteran and the three-time Pro Bowler should not be overlooked in drafts this summer.
Adam McGill is the Senior Fantasy Sports Writer at Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @adammcgill83, like him on Facebook, or add him to you networks on Google here or here.
