Chargers running back Ryan Mathews played 16 games for the first time in his career last season. He rushed for a career-high 1,255 yards, scored seven total touchdowns, and finished as the No. 12 Fantasy running back.
Mathews opens the season Monday night against Arizona, the league's stingiest run defense last year. The Cardinals allowed an NFL-low 84.4 rushing yards per game while giving up 3.7 yards per carry (tied for second). But their defense is not quite as tough now due to injuries, defections and linebacker Daryl Washington's suspension.
The bigger concern for Mathews is San Diego's three-headed backfield monster. When running backs coach Ollie Wilson was asked about the team signing Donald Brown to join Mathews and Danny Woodhead, he said, "There is no such thing as a featured back any more."
Mathews still will get most of the early-down work and goal-line carries. Consider him a low-end RB2 in Week 1.