The Denver Broncos shocked most of us when they selected former Wisconsin running back Montee Ball at the end of the second round, ahead of players like Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin.  But it wasn’t too shocking, given that there were rumors abound that head coach John Fox wasn’t satisfied with the current backs on the roster and the general consensus was that Denver would draft a running back at some point.  The Prevailing thought is that Ball will be the featured back headed into the 2013 season, and Fox has confirmed as much, saying they would lean on him heavily from the beginning.  So let’s take a look at what that means for Ball’s fantasy value, both now and in the future. 

The biggest knock on Ball is the huge amount of miles already on his body.  As you can see, in four years at Wisconsin, three of which he was the starter; Ball rushed for 5,140 yards and added an additional 598 receiving yards.  That’s a lot of work to already have at the young age of 22, I’ll give you that.  But in reality, Ball is literally entering (or already in) his prime as a running back.  He’s already worked out most of the kinks in his game, and has proven that he’s durable as well as a dual threat.  With The Broncos looking to win now, while they still have Peyton Manning, and after adding Louis Vasquez to an already talented offensive line; Ball is in the perfect situation in Denver.  He’ll be able to come in and make a big impact on the ground, as well as in the passing game, from day one. 

Ball is a good low-end RB1 option and a great RB2 or FLEX guy for the 2013 season; especially in PPR leagues.  As far as dynasty is concerned, he still is only 22, and could be counted on even more in the post-Manning era. If you can get him in a good spot, scoop him up and enjoy four to five years of top-notch fantasy success before he likely declines. 

2013 Stat Projections: 229 rushing attempts, 1,200 yards, 22 receptions, 204 receiving yards and 13 total touchdowns.