Sony Michel traded to Rams – Darrell Henderson upside falls

Faced with a situation at running back thanks to Cam Akers’ torn Achilles, the Los Angeles Rams made a trade early Wednesday, acquiring Sony Michel from the New England Patriots for two conditional late-round picks, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Michel, the Patriots’ first-round pick (31st overall) in 2018, played 38 games over three seasons for New England. He had 981 scrimmage yards in 2018 and 1,006 in 2019 before injuries and Damien Harris’ emergence limited him to 563 in 2020. He joins a Rams backfield that includes Darrell Henderson — who hurt his thumb in practice Monday put participated in practice Tuesday — along with Xavier Jones and Jake Funk. 

Sony Michel traded to Rams, Fantasy Football Impact

Fantasy analysis: Henderson’s fantasy football ADP skyrocketed after Akers’ injury, rising from going in the 150s in June to in the 70 range now. This will temper that excitement somewhat. While a healthy Henderson will still probably have the edge over Michel for playing time, at least to start things, it remains to be seen if Henderson actually is healthy. You’ll have to knock Henderson at least a few rounds in drafts, while Michel — essentially an afterthought in drafts so far — now could be an interesting late-round upside pick. Unfortunately, those who invested a late sleeper pick in either Jones or Funk will probably have a long wait before either has any relevance. 

Meanwhile, this trade helps clear things up a little bit for the Patriots backs, but only a little — Harris, James White and Rhamondre Stevenson still promise to be a confounding trio for fantasy managers to work out. — Daniel Kelley

FTN’s Eliot Crist breaks down the news, here.