2012 Fantasy Football Rookie Report: Robert Turbin, RB, Seattle Seahawks

Posted by Andy Miley on 09/02/2012 | 2 Comments

Tags: 2012 fantasy football, dynasty, keeper, rookie, Seattle Seahawks, Robert Turbin, Russell Wilson, Pete Carroll, Marshawn Lynch, Doug Baldwin, Beanie Wells

Back to back articles about Pete Carroll's Seahawks, could football be any closer?  Not to be outdone by their terrific defense, steps were taken to upgrade the Seattle offense with the drafting of Russell Wilson and Robert Turbin.  The Seahawks do not want to get into shootouts; which is why Wilson and Turbin are tailor-made players for their system.

Seattle must improve their offensive consistency to win this division and not be so dependent on Marshawn Lynch's legs and Doug Baldwin's hands.  After Wilson's terrific performance in the preseason, the undersized phenom will get the opening day start which will usher in a new ball control, deliberate attacking offense.

Robert Turbin, RB, Seattle Seahawks

Height: 5' 10" Weight: 222 lbs College: Utah State

Scouting Report- Turbin is a powerful runner without Marshawn Lynch's wiggle, but can run much in the same vein.  I reviewed several of his 2011 college games against BYU, Ohio University, and San Joes State.  Please keep in mind, he will be playing against tougher opponents on the practice field let alone in games than he faced much of his college career.  Turbin has deficiencies finding the best running lanes, tends to not pick up his feet, and has a history of knee issues that affect his agility and lateral movement.

He is more than willing to run inside, but Turbin does have a tendency to bounce many of his runs towards the sidelines where he excels.  As the "SeaHulk" runs, he gives up very little of his frame to hit, but needs to learn the adage of "the low man always wins."  Much of his production is determined by his offensive line and he does not have a second gear like Lynch.  His pass blocking is not outstanding, but he does well enough to stay on the field during passing situations.

2012 Analysis- Turbin is a good hedge against Lynch from an injury standpoint as well as the legal side.  When Coach Carroll blesses you with the nickname, "SeaHulk", there are a few implied responsibilities.  He will keep Lynch fresh by taking 10+ touches a game and power his way down the field when called upon.  Turbin has decent hands so he can be used in passing downs and will be adequate in pass protection.

His value will increase in future seasons as Lynch is determined to find a way to play himself out of the league legally or otherwise.  This year I would expect very low production of around 600 total yards, 25+ catches, and 2-4 touchdowns in a limited role.  Do not be discouraged as he will get more of an opportunity in 2013 and beyond.

Compares to: Beanie Wells