Dexter McCluster's Fantasy Football Value Should Rise

Kansas City Chiefs RB Dexter McCluster can expect a slight uptick in usage with RB Jamaal Charles out for the year due to a torn ACL. McCluster moved from receiver to running back this season but he's still seeing time at both positions, which should perk the ears of some fantasy football owners.

I say this because I had Charles on my team and, before the season started, picked up McCluster. Now he's going to have to save me from fantasy football hell.

Chiefs coach Todd Haley said on his conference call with the San Diego media today that they're McCluster can handle 10-14 touches each game.

The general thought is 10, 12, 14 touches. He's probably going to have a couple special teams touches. He's not real big, but he's a tough guy. Sometimes he's his own worst enemy because he is tough and he doesn't shy away from contact. That's all part of the process with him.

The word versatility is accurate. He had 21 receptions and 18 rushing attempts last year. This year, through just two games, he has nine receptions and 12 rushing attempts, which is about 10 touches per game so far.

Haley also mentioned protecting the football which is becoming a problem for McCluster as he's fumbled twice already this season. In that same conference call, both Haley and QB Matt Cassel said turnovers were the Chiefs biggest issue and they're right.

McCluster can definitely be a nice complement to the Chiefs backfield, creating some confusion for the defense, but only if he holds onto the ball.