Onterrio

Smith

The appeal for his hearing will be heard next Wednesday. If Smith is suspended, as expected, he’ll likely begin serving the four-game suspension during week six. Michael Bennett is expected to return on the 10th, but the Vikings could ease him into action with Smith available.

It’s likely that Smith will be suspended for week five through week eight. Michael Bennett will carry the load, with help from Moe Williams.

The NFL looks unlikely to make a last minute decision on Smith’s appeal of his drug suspension. Moe Williams will get the start, but Smith looks likely to get the majority of carries, making him a flex position candidate. He’ll probably be suspended after the first game.

Nice. We love Mike Tice. Smith should earn most of the carries in Minnesota this weekend and be in most fantasy lineups as an RB2 or flex position player.

The NFL is not expected to make a decision in the case until after week one. Smith started at running back in last night’s preseason finale, a sure sign that he’ll start over Moe Williams next week. Then he’ll likely miss four games.

Smith dropped his appeal, so it’s official. He’ll be eligible to return during week nine for a game on November 8th. Smith owners should obviously hold on to him. With Michael Bennett constantly injured, he could still hold a lot of value this season and beyond.

“I want to go ahead and get this thing out of the way,” Smith said. The NFL will hear Smith’s appeal on Wednesday and will likely suspend him for four games shortly thereafter. But on the off chance that is delayed, Smith has instructed his agent to drop the appeal altogether. In this timeframe, Smith could return for a November 8th game at Indianapolis.

With a depleted receiver corps, the Vikings may concentrate on the run. While Mewelde Moore will keep his starting job if healthy, Smith should also get significant work.

It appears Mewelde Moore will remain Minnesota’s starter for now. We’re not sure how the Vikings will find carries for Smith and Michael Bennett.

We expect to see 10-15 touches for each back. Considering the Colts are the opponent, we see each back as a legit RB3 or flex option. If we had to guess, Smith may earn more carries.