RB Earnest Graham, TB

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2009 Outlook: Sleeper (undervalued)

A fantasy savior for many fantasy owners two years ago, Earnest Graham's four yard and a cloud of dust running style is a perfect fit for the new offensive scheme put in place by the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay will likely be forced to rely heavily on its running game, making not only Derrick Ward, but Earnest Graham extremely valuable fantasy commodities in 2009.

When asked about his recovery from ankle surgery in the team's mini-camp: "I'm fine. I'm at 100 percent," Graham told the Tampa Tribune. "I'm ready to rock. I'm good." Graham will be healthy in 2009, and if he stays healthy may limit Derrick Ward from becoming an elite fantasy rusher. Graham will likely receive the goal-line carries for the Buccaneers this season, and is a solid bet to rush for 600 yards and 6 TD's in relief of Ward.

Fantasy owners should draft Earnest Graham in the middle rounds as an excellent backup with major fantasy upside if he takes over the starting role due to injury. An excellent sleeper candidate for 2009, Earnest Graham will be healthy and productive for fantasy owners who draft him this fall.

Update 8/21

Graham has been listed as the team's starter on the Buccaneers' initial depth chart. The battle between Graham and Ward for carries will continue for the rest of the pre-season; but with Derrick Ward now healthy, Ward should emerge as the starter by the end of the pre-season. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation this weekend when Tampa battles the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Average Draft Position

2009 Mock Draft Results