Ito Smith Fantasy

The Atlanta Falcons released running back Ito Smith on Thursday to make room on the roster for recently signed wide receiver/kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson. Smith totaled 689 rushing yards on 175 carries (3.9 yards per carry) and six touchdowns and added 55 receptions for 314 yards in his three seasons with Atlanta. On 63 carries last season, the 25-year-old had 268 rushing yards (4.3 yards per carry) and a touchdown. He also tacked on 75 receiving yards on 17 catches (26 targets) in the passing game. Smith was originally a fourth-round pick by the Falcons in 2018 out of Southern Mississippi. Patterson could be used out of the backfield in his new home, but he'll mostly be a depth piece behind Mike Davis and Qadree Ollison. The Falcons will likely address the position in the draft as well.

Apr. 15th • 2:45 PM

Atlanta Falcons running back Ito Smith (ribs) was a limited practice participant on Wednesday ahead of the Week 17 contest with the Buccaneers. As long as Smith remains limited the rest of the week, he should be in line to lead the Falcons' backfield yet again. The 25-year-old has averaged 11.2 touches per game over the last five weeks, though he's exceeded 50 total yards just once in that span. The Falcons' backs should be avoided against the Buccaneers' top-ranked run defense, regardless of who is the lead back.

Dec. 31st • 3:13 PM

Atlanta Falcons running back Ito Smith finished with 10 carries for 46 yards and one reception for five yards on one target in Week 16. Despite being the RB1 on the team, Smith wasn't all that explosive in this game. Overall, the back hasn't rushed for more than 46 yards in the past four games. He isn't a great start next week against a Bucs squad allowing the third-fewest points to fantasy backs given his recent production.

Dec. 27th • 5:54 PM