Position, Team, NFL Draft Spot: RB, Chicago Bears, 5.11
Dynasty Positional Rank: 47
Redraft Target Round: Late round selection
Analysis: There were quite a few question marks surrounding Howard before the NFL Draft started. Some people believed he would be a second day pick, while others disagreed with that. Ultimately, he fell to the Bears in the fifth round, which seems to be one of the bigger steals in the draft.
Howard will be stuck behind multiple running backs early in training camp, but it likely will not take him long to jump ahead of Ka’Deem Carey and Jacquizz Rodgers. Howard’s biggest competition will be Jeremy Langford, as they are both early down workers. Howard has the ability to be a feature running back in the NFL, as he’s a big player, who runs with power and determination. He’s a solid flier in re-draft leagues because he has the talent to carve a role out in the Bears offense this season, and he is a threat to steal goal line carries, as well.
Howard’s dynasty league outlook is great for where he was drafted. He was a highly productive player throughout college, as he totaled 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns in only three seasons. As his numbers suggest, Howard is a player that can a full workload, although there is always the question of injury with him. The Bears will be looking to replace Matt Forte, and Howard is one of the favorites. He’s a great option in dynasty leagues, as he has a solid floor with a great ceiling.