Ravens Add RB Latavius Murray, What's His Fantasy Upside?

The Baltimore Ravens announced on Friday that they signed veteran running back Latavius Murray to a one-year deal, first reported by Adam Schefter.

The signing was an immediate response to the depleted backfield that has transpired in Baltimore this past month.

Ravens fans have spent the week wearing their palms like sunglasses after season-ending injuries have piled on the unfortunate roster. The position stripped of all its talent was running back — which lost lead backs JK Dobbins, Justice Hill and Gus Edwards.

The Murray pick-up feels like a prime acquisition for GM Eric DeCosta, and a rare opportunity for fantasy owners to pick up a starting back after the drafts have rolled out. Murray's move to Baltimore gives the player an RB2 upside, based on the dual-threat element offered by the replacement back.

For starters, Murray will lead all backs in the current group as Le'Veon Bell still works with the Ravens practice squad, and new acquisition Devonta Freeman no longer resembles the RB1 from Atlanta. As for Ty’Son Williams, the near identical frame (6’0”, 220 lbs) with Murray may lead to both backs boasting too close of a resemblance in style, with Latavius’ experience edging out the rookie.

The running back has been a viable fantasy option after shadowing both Dalvin Cook and Alvin Kamara. Latavius has averaged over 4.4 yards per carry in the past two seasons, and wasn't shy to put up a couple 100-yard performances during Kamara's injury absence in 2019.

During that two-game stint, Murray totaled over 20 rushing attempts (21, 27) and went over 100 yards (119, 102). Murray faced the Chicago Bears and Arizona Cardinals run defenses, too. In both lead appearances, Murray also grabbed 13 total receptions for over 80 yards.

Murray's recent release from New Orleans is no way to overshadow the production that Murray has accrued as an interim starter these past few seasons, especially with it being a money issue over production.

If Gus Edwards' injury or D'Andre Swift's fabled murder allegations are keeping you up at night, dip into the free agency pool and lock in this mid RB2.

Follow along on Twitter: @AlejandroAveela