CJ Donaldson

CJ Donaldson News

CJ Donaldson Unlikely to See Fantasy-Relevant Workload in Week 7

Across six games so far in 2026, New Orleans Saints running back CJ Donaldson has recorded 91 yards from scrimmage on 21 touches. The 22-year-old has played a regular role in his team's backfield rotation on third downs. He's also started to earn a few more touches of late, recording a season-high six carries and 39 rushing yards in Week 6 against the New York Giants. However, Donaldson is still competing with Kendre Miller and Alvin Kamara for snaps and touches in the Saints backfield. The Saints will take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 7, who profile as a much tougher run defense than the Giants. With all three backs likely to get their chance against the Pittsburgh, Donaldson is tough for fantasy managers to trust as a starter.

Oct 24, 2026 5:49 AM EST

CJ Donaldson a Short-Term Waiver Option at RB in Deep Leagues

New Orleans Saints undrafted rookie running back CJ Donaldson played 33% of the offensive snaps in Sunday's Week 6 win over the New York Giants and saw a season-high six rushing attempts for 39 yards. He failed to bring in his only target in the passing game, had a goal-line score overturned, and lost a fumble in the fourth quarter. Donaldson's day could have looked much different with a touchdown, but it was notable that he had an increased role with Travis Etienne Jr. (hamstring) still on Injured Reserve. Etienne will be sidelined for at least one more game, so the 22-year-old Donaldson could be involved more again alongside Alvin Kamara and Kendre Miller in Paris in Week 7 on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Donaldson has been efficient with his limited opportunities through his first six NFL games, averaging 4.8 yards per carry for 81 rushing yards on 17 carries, adding four catches on six targets for 10 yards through the air. Fantasy managers in deep leagues should temper their expectations, though, as Donaldson is still no better than the Saints' RB3, even with Etienne on the shelf.

Oct 20, 2026 3:58 PM EST

CJ Donaldson Drawing Waiver Interest as Saints Backfield Battles Injuries

New Orleans Saints running back CJ Donaldson has seen his playing time increase as injuries continue to deplete the team's backfield. The rookie led New Orleans running backs with a 42% offensive snap share against Minnesota in Week 5, although he managed just 13 yards on four carries and caught one pass for seven yards. Kendre Miller handled 10 rushing attempts for 30 yards and a touchdown despite playing fewer snaps, leaving Donaldson without a substantial rushing workload. With Travis Etienne Jr. (hamstring) and Ty Chandler (knee) on injured reserve, another opportunity could be approaching. Alvin Kamara (back) is questionable for Sunday's matchup against the New York Giants after being limited in practice throughout the week. Donaldson has totaled only 42 rushing yards and 10 receiving yards through five games, but his increased involvement and the uncertainty surrounding Kamara make him worth considering as a speculative waiver stash in deeper leagues. Miller remains the more appealing short-term option if Kamara cannot play.

Oct 17, 2026 11:05 AM EST

CJ Donaldson Could see Expanded Role in Backfield

New Orleans Saints running back CJ Donaldson has seen a minimal role in the rushing attack through the first three weeks of the season. Coming into Week 4, Donaldson has carried the ball four times for 11 yards, while hauling in one reception for -2 yards. Usually, Donaldson is an afterthought in the backfield, but he could see an expanded role with Travis Etienne Jr. (hamstring) expected to miss some time. Alvin Kamara should be the lead back with Kendre Miller and Donaldson splitting up the backup role. Fantasy managers in deep leagues or dynasty formats should consider stashing Donaldson.

Sep 29, 2026 6:08 PM EST