Andre Ellington (RB, ARI) - Week 5 Waiver Wire Pickups

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OWNED IN: 22% of leagues

ANALYSIS: Arizona Cardinals running back Andre Ellington won't fill the massive void left behind by David Johnson in the running game, but he's certainly trying as a pass-catcher. Ellington was targeted a whopping 14 times in Week 4, catching nine balls for 86 yards. By contrast, he's only carried the ball five times in each of the last two games for a total of 40 yards. Ellington was briefly converted to receiver in the preseason and now we see why. He will be used sparingly as a runner, taking a backseat to veteran Chris Johnson and young Kerwynn Williams. His heavy volume as a receiver makes him an asset in PPR leagues, however, and a valuable flex play.

If you ignore rushing production and look at Ellington as a WR3 who happens to qualify at RB, then you have a possible every-week starter on your hands. Ellington should continue to get plenty of targets in an offense still tilted toward the passing game and frequent check-downs. Neither Johnson nor Williams have been targeted more than three times in a game this season, so Ellington's role is secure. PPR league owners have no business leaving him on waivers past this week.