Fantasy Upside
Antone Smith is entering his age 30 season, but has just 44 career touches (and no, that is not a typo). Fellow RBs Devonta Freeman and rookie Tevin Coleman both suffered hamstring injuries in training camp and if either were to suffer a serious injury, Smith would be thrust into a significant role in Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Despite the presence of Freeman and Coleman on Atlanta’s depth chart, Smith proved he’s a legit playmaker with four touchdowns of 40-plus yards in 2014. Based on a small sample-size, he appears capable of producing big numbers if given more opportunities.
Fantasy Downside
Smith suffered a broken leg last season and then fell victim to a hamstring injury in the Falcons’ first preseason game this year. His age isn’t a huge concern because he has limited thread on his tires, but Freeman was given first crack in OTAs and training camp to be Shanahan’s No. 1 back. Coleman, who was drafted in the third-round this year, has the potential to be the lead back of a committee if he can ever stay healthy. That leaves Smith on the backburner when it comes to opportunities in the Falcons backfield. It’s unlikely he’ll see enough touches to become relevant in fantasy leagues this season.
Bottom Line
Smith ranks as our RB51 and is rightfully going undrafted in 10 and 12-team leagues. He’ll emerge as a streaming option only if Freeman or Coleman is injured. And even then, he’ll be part of a committee, so his touches will remain limited.