Fantasy Upside
DeMarco Murray had his best season in 2013. He ran for 1,121 yards and nine touchdowns. He also caught 53 passes which elevates his value in PPR leagues. Murray carried the ball 217 times and that number should rise. He really is the only running back option on the Cowboys roster and the team believes he is a three-down back. Murray has the size to run inside and the speed to run outside. He is averaging 4.9 yards per carry over the last three seasons. And remember one other thing: Murray is in a contract year.
Fantasy Downside
Durability is a big question mark for Murray. He has missed 11 games in this first three seasons which carries over a trend from college. He also has played hurt which has limited his productivity at times. Even if he misses some games, his numbers still have an impact, but if he misses 4 or 5 games, then the value is minimized.
Bottom Line
Murray has a chance to be a top 5 back this season. With new offensive coordinator expected to get the ball to his most dangerous weapons, Murray falls under that category. Don't be surprised if the Murray catches 20 more balls in 2014 and surpasses his season-high rushing totals from last season. As long as he stays on the field, Murray is a first round pick in all formats and I would even consider taking him even higher in PPR leagues.