Sleeper Watch

Minnesota RB Michael Bennett’s recovery from foot surgery is taking far longer than anticipated; at this point, it’s possible that he’ll need a second surgical procedure to correct the stress fracture that was originally supposed to take only six weeks to heal. Bennett will miss the beginning of training camp, and might wind up missing some or all of the upcoming season.

Should Bennett be unavailable, Doug Chapman, will most likely receive the first opportunity to start for the Vikings, but don’t count rookie Onterrio Smith out. Smith, chosen by Minnesota with the 105th pick (round 4) of this year’s draft, has more long-term upside than Chapman and might become the Vikings’ starter sooner rather than later.

Smith is no stranger to injury himself, having undergone arthroscopic surgery on his left knee last fall. Prior to the cartilage tear that ended his season, Smith rushed for 1079 yards in nine games at Oregon, including seven straight 100-yard efforts. He combines quickness with excellent lower body strength, and could fit in well with Minnesota’s offense if he receives the playing time to showcase his skills.

That playing time remains the big question at this point, however. Keep an eye on Bennett’s status as well as both Smith’s and Chapman’s performances in training camp. Also keep in mind that no matter who eventually starts at RB for the Vikings, Moe Williams will reduce that player’s fantasy value by again picking up the majority of goal-line opportunities. Nonetheless, Onterrio Smith’s value is definitely on the rise: at this point, he has to be considered one of the top two rookie RBs (together with Kansas City’s Larry Johnson) in terms of fantasy potential for the upcoming season.