Lorenzo Taliaferro (RB, BAL) - Waiver Wire Pickups

The below analysis first appeared in RotoBaller's article Week 4 Running Backs: Waiver Wire Pickups & Adds.

BALLER MOVE: Add in All 12+ Team Leagues

Owned in 29% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS:  Remember when the Ray Rice situation first broke and everyone told you to go add Justin Forsett? Remember when I was one of those people? You don’t? You’re very kind. But unless you’re in a PPR format, you’re probably pretty mad at me for recommending that you pick up Forsett. Well now I think you should listen to me about Lorenzo Taliaferro.

Why should you trust me this time? Because Taliaferro is the much more talented running back compared to Forsett, hence why he was taken in the 6th round of the 2014 draft. Week 3's game acted as a breakout party for Taliaferro who rushed 18 times for 91 yards and a TD, worth 15 + fantasy points in most leagues. Add in the fact that he averaged 5.1 yards per carry and you have a clear picture of a young running back with a lot of upside.

For anyone who is still worried about Bernard Pierce, I wouldn’t be in the long term. Pierce is averaging only 4.04 yards per carry on the year, and hasn’t endeared himself to the coaching staff with his ball handling. While Pierce may get the start in week 4, it won’t be long now until he becomes the backup in my opinion, and that makes Taliaferro worth a stash in all 12 team leagues.