Benny Cunningham (RB, STL) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in Deeper Leagues

ANALYSIS: After much speculation that Benny Cunningham’s role in the Rams’ offense would increase he finally got his opportunity to show what he could do in week five when Zac Stacy went down with a calf injury. The former undrafted free agent who led the NFL with 5.6 yards per carry in 2013, gained a combined 71 all purpose yards and added a touchdown. He averaged 6.7 yards per carry and was able to pull in some important receptions during the Rams’ late rally against the Eagles.

Although the Rams drafted Tre Mason in the third round of this year’s draft, Cunningham has jumped ahead of the rookie and is listed second on the Rams depth chart. The scouting report on Cunningham describes him as a strong, agile back with a great work ethic. In his final college season he was averaging over two touchdowns per game and certainly would have been drafted had his senior year not been cut short due to a torn patellar tendon.

With a flair for finding the end zone and good pass catching ability Cunningham should continue to challenge Stacy for playing time. However as of now, the Rams running back depth chart will remain unchanged. Week six might not be the week to start either Rams running back since they will be playing against a tough 49ers defense, however you should continue to monitor Cunningham’s workload as the season progresses.