New England Patriots running back Corey Kiner has emerged as a potential fantasy football asset ahead of Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions.
The backfield is currently in flux, providing an opportunity for Kiner to see an increased workload according to Yahoo Sports.
The team faces significant personnel challenges, as TreVeyon Henderson was placed on injured reserve Saturday due to an illness.
Henderson will be sidelined for at least four games and is not eligible to return until a Week 15 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Furthermore, Rhamondre Stevenson is managing a lingering knee injury, which further complicates the team’s offensive rotation.
Kiner demonstrated efficiency during the previous week against the Green Bay Packers, leading the team with 55 rushing yards and a touchdown on eight carries.
In comparison, Stevenson recorded only 32 rushing yards on six attempts during that contest, as noted by Patriots Wire.
The coaching staff must now look for alternative production, and Kiner has already accumulated 244 yards on 50 carries throughout the season.
Analysts suggest that the combination of injuries to the starting rotation makes Kiner a viable flex option for fantasy managers this week.
The upcoming game in Munich presents a difficult challenge, as the Lions are coming off a bye week and are well-rested.
Detroit has surrendered 2,265 passing yards this season, ranking second-most in the league, while also allowing six receiving touchdowns.
With Romeo Doubs sidelined and Hunter Henry struggling, the Patriots are expected to rely heavily on their ground attack to move the chains.
Fantasy managers are closely monitoring the situation as the team prepares for the Sunday morning kickoff at FC Bayern Munich Stadium.
The game is scheduled for Nov. 15 at 9:30 a.m. ET, serving as a critical test for the depth of the New England roster.
Kiner remains an intriguing speculative addition given the current state of the Patriots’ backfield according to the outlets reported.