Shane Vereen (RB, NYG) - Waiver Wire Pickups

Baller Move: Add in deeper PPR leagues

Owned in: 73% of Fleaflicker leagues

Analysis: Regardless of the letters "R-B" that occupy Shane Vereen's position, it is safe to say that he brings home the bacon to fantasy football managers as a pass-catcher who happens to get a few carries every game. In nine games with the Giants this season Vereen has 41 carries (an average of 4.6 carries per game), a total of 174 rushing yards (an average of 19.33 yards per game), and 4.24 yards per carry.

Vereen has once again proved far more dangerous in the passing game. This year Vereen has averaged 4.9 targets, 3.8 receptions, and 34.3 yards per game. He has also accumulated three receiving touchdowns and 9.09 yards per reception. However, Vereen had two dud games of three targets for zero receptions that bring his averages down significantly. In the seven games in which he had a catch, he averaged 5.9 targets, 4.9 receptions, and 44 yards per game. As an added offensive bonus, Vereen also does kick returns for the Giants and averaged 25.2 yards per return, which is nearly enough to crack the top ten in the NFL.

Now that Dion Lewis is out, Vereen currently ranks sixth in receptions in the NFL among running backs and out of that group of six, Vereen is fifth in total rushing yards. With Andre Williams producing just three more rushing yards than Vereen in 61 attempts at a meager 2.9 yards per carry, it can be expected that Vereen might see more carries from the backfield. Also expect Shane Vereen to resume his versatile semi-TE role and snag some of Larry Donnell's 5.7 targets per game as long as the 6'6'' Giant remains sidelined. Vereen has too much versatility to be ignored in 12- or 14-team leagues, despite the logjam at the running back position.