Verron Haynes

Following the retirement of Jerome Bettis, some thought that Haynes would take the baton and run with it. That didn't happen, however, and Haynes' season ended seven games into the campaign when he hurt his knee in Oakland. Whatever fantasy value Haynes has lies in his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, and that is minimal. Even if Willie Parker went down with an injury it would be unlikely to see Haynes carry the load.

Haynes is a competent third-down back who has the opportunity to take an expanded role in the Steelers' offense. On one hand, it's conceivable that Haynes will see his share of short-yardage rushing attempts if for no other reason than the fragile Duce Staley will likely get hurt at some point. On the other hand, Haynes' skills have looked ordinary whenever he's been given chances so far in his five years with the organization. He rarely makes would-be tacklers miss. Haynes is in the perfect fantasy sleeper position, but it remains to be seen whether he has the actual talent to take advantage of his opportunity.

Haynes has the greatest opportunity of his career in 2005, with the ongoing health considerations of Duce Staley and Jerome Bettis. Primarily a third down back, Haynes has never carried the ball more than 12 times in a game during his three-year NFL career. He's a straight-ahead runner who is prone to injury. Haynes has been successful in his limited opportunities, but it's hard to envision him staying healthy enough over the long run to be regular fantasy contributor.

Haynes is a long-shot to be an impact player in 2004. It would require an earth-shattering pre-season and camp by Haynes to vault over Jerome Bettis and Duce Staley on the depth chart. A serious injury to either of the other two backs mentioned could offer him an opportunity but at this point Haynes is likely to go un-drafted in most fantasy leagues.

Haynes will be hard pressed to see any significant playing time this season as he is behind Jerome Bettis, Amos Zereoue and Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala on depth chart. Only numerous injuries to the team's backs would produce a meaningful contribution from him.