November 16, 2008 Running back Chester Taylor assures the Minneapolis Star Tribune that he is fine with his backup role to Adrian Peterson. "I'm a team player, and I just want to win," Taylor says. "People probably think [I'm upset] because when they first brought me here I was running the ball, and I started the whole year. Then they brought Adrian in so people figure any running back who's gone from first string to second string is going to be upset...He's helping our team win and that's all that matters now."
Our View:Taylor is accustomed to playing behind a star, as he was previously the caddy to Jamal Lewis in Baltimore. It's nice to see a veteran like this who understands the situation and isn't complaining about it. Fantasy owners should continue to hold Taylor as a handcuff to Peterson.
November 9, 2008 Chester Taylor compiled 113 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown in the Week 10 victory over Green Bay.
Our View:Taylor is only getting leftovers in Minnesota, but still makes for a serviceable flex option in PPR leagues. Over the past four games, Taylor has compiled 54 touches (37 carries, 17 receptions) and three touchdowns.
September 28, 2008 Running back Chester Taylor (foot) is active for the Week 4 game against the Titans.
Our View:The backup could see a decent amount of action due to Adrian Peterson's lingering hamstring injury. He is not a strong fantasy start, though.
September 26, 2008 Chester Taylor (foot) is listed as questionable to play in Week 4 against the Titans, according to The Pioneer Press.
Our View:Taylor should play though both he and Adrian Peterson are listed as questionable. Look for both to fill their standard roles this weekend.
July 24, 2008 Adrian Peterson established himself as the workhorse of the Vikings' offense as a rookie in 2007, but coach Brad Childress noted that there will still be plenty of carries for Chester Taylor in 2008, according to the Star Tribune. Childress said, "I think Chester has a great mindset. He knows there are going to be plenty of carries in there for him. I think he appreciates the ability to be fresh and contribute. His approach during training camp, I thought, was very good last year and it was very good during OTAs. I wouldn’t expect to see anything different."
Our View:Childress wants Peterson to remain fresh, and the team previously stated that they will experiment with formations that feature both backs. Taylor should still hold decent fantasy value in 2008, namely in PPR leagues.
