Another name that has flown under the radar in the flurry of free agent moves was the Redskins’ signing of running back Tim Hightower.

ESPN.com reports that the veteran is the favorite to win the job as Washington’ s starting running back.

Ryan Torain continues to battle with durability concerns and rookie, Ray Helu, who has tremendous long-term value, will need time to acquaint himself with pro football.

Mike Shanahan has long delivered fantasy owners gold in terms of running backs and Hightower could provide a glimpse of it this season. Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan is optimistic that the best is still ahead for Hightower.

The former Arizona Cardinal averaged a career-high 4.8 yards per carry last season, but finished with only 736 yards as he only had 153 carries. If his rushing attempts rise, so will his fantasy value.

Owners that use a PPR-format should give him even more consideration. Hightower has averaged nearly 40 catches per season during his career, including a 63-catch season in 2009.

FINAL TAKE: Don’t get too carried away with Hightower, but he’s at the very least a RB3 option in any format with the upside the finish as a top 20 fantasy RB if the carries are there. Target him in mid-rounds of your draft.

Fantasy Football washington redskins, fantasy sleeper, fantasy advice, tim hightower, mike shanahan