The Facts:
Former Buffalo Bills RB Thurman Thomas, who helped the Bills four consecutive AFC championships and was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007, was in Atlanta last week shared some thoughts on the Falcons. Chief among his concerns, Thomas believes the Falcons are riding Turner too hard. “Michael Turner, when you carry that ball 300 times a year for a few years, it puts some wear and tear on your body," Thomas said. "I think they need another running back to give him a break every now and again.”
Reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
As AJC staffer D. Orlando Ledbetter notes, in his first four seasons in the league as LaDainian Tomlinson’s backup in San Diego, Turner never had more than 80 carries in a season. After signing with the Falcons in 2008, he had 376 carries. He suffered a severe high ankle sprain in 2009 and finished with 178 carries. Last season, he had 334 carries. He went to the Pro Bowl after each of his 300-plus carry seasons. The Falcons did draft RB Jacquizz Rodgers in the fifth round of the draft. Jason Snelling, Turner’s main backup last season, could end up as a free agent. Also, Jerious Norwood is trying to battle back from knee surgery. The Falcons also have Antone Smith and Gartrell Johnson on the roster. ... While we don't necessarily disagree with Thomas' belief, Fantasy Football owners shouldn't look for a major turnaround in philosophy here; Turner will continue to be very busy as long as he's healthy.
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