When former Alabama running back Eddie Lacy fell to the Green Bay Packers at the end of the second round in this year’s draft, selecting him was a no-brainer.  The addition of Lacy instantly balance out the Packers’ already-potent offense, and fans were going a little crazy imagining the possibilities.  However, fantasy owners’ hopes were dashed a bit when the Packers added their second running back, Johnathan Franklin, in the fourth round.  Because of his versatility and skill set, Franklin will likely be the Packers’ No. 1 back, relegating Lacy to situational duties.  So what will this mean for his fantasy impact? Let’s find out. 

Lacy is a talented, downhill runner, ala Steven Jackson with a ton of power, good balance and deceptive speed.  He’s great at pass blocking and good weapon in the passing game as well.  The downside here is his style of running. While it gets the job done most of the time, he’s not going to be able to do much on the outside and will do most of his work between the tackles.  This is where Franklin gives the Packers a better, more versatile option, because he can run between the hashes or bounce it to the outside and is much faster; while being just as good in the passing game and at blocking. 

The addition of Franklin means Lacy will be brought in on some passing downs, for short yardage/third-down and goal-line situations.  This will make up a big chunk of the points lost by his lack of total yardage, because he’s going to score a lot of touchdowns when the Packers are inside the five.  In the end though, Lacy won’t be a dependable running back option in 2013 unless you can start five backs every week. He’ll be a decent bench option, and could be counted on for maybe one spot start, but nothing more.  In dynasty leagues he’s a bit more valuable because of the lack of mileage on his body, but still shouldn’t be depended on as a starter in 2013. 

2013 Stat Projections: 115 carries, 650 rushing yards, 10 receptions, 80 receiving yards and nine total touchdowns.