The fantasy football community was rocked when news broke about Alvin Kamara ‘s involvement in a nightclub brawl in Las Vegas in 2022. The incident resulted in the star running back earning a three-game suspension by the NFL yesterday, leaving fantasy managers grappling with the implications for the 2023 season. So let’s delve into how it will affect his fantasy football value, particularly as his current Average Draft Position (ADP) as a seventh round pick.
Fantasy Football Impact
The suspension comes at a time when fantasy football managers are preparing for their drafts and finalizing their strategies. Kamara’s fantasy value has been significantly impacted. His ADP dropped to the seventh round in PPR drafts due to the likelihood he would be suspended. Currently, he’s the RB30 off the board according to Fantasy Pros ADP.
Additionally, now that Kamara’s suspension is set, his ADP may rise. Due to the nature of the incident, a three-game suspension is best case scenario for fantasy managers. Many were predicting he could be suspended for at least four to six games.
Should You Draft Alvin Kamara?
Kamara’s ADP may rise, but it shouldn’t be that significant. Even if he starts going in the sixth round, that’s still a great price point for a player who’s been consistently productive for fantasy managers over the last few seasons.
In addition, Kamara has finished no lower than 16th in PPR formats since he entered the league. He still has the capability to give fantasy managers who draft him a top-20 season at his position, especially with new QB Derek Carr.
Precautions
If you’re planning on drafting Alvin Kamara in your league, be sure to pick up Jamaal Williams as well. Williams finished as the RB13 in PPR leagues last season, and should fill Kamara’s role nicely until he comes back. Jamaal Williams is currently being drafted in the ninth round.
In the unfortunate circumstance you miss out on Jamaal Williams in your draft, Rashaad Penny is another viable option to fill the void. Penny is now in Philadelphia. The Eagles high-powered offense will give Penny plenty of opportunities to produce for fantasy managers. Penny’s ADP is also in the ninth round as should be healthy to start the season.
