Who Should I Start? Aaron Jones Sr. or Bucky Irving

Tuesday, September 30, 6:33 PM

Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (hamstring) is targeting a return in Week 8. Jones suffered the injury late in Week 2's loss to the Falcons and was placed on injured reserve afterward. With the Vikings entering the bye in Week 6, that means Jones' next opportunity to return is in Week 8, where they face the Los Angeles Chargers on a Thursday Night. The veteran has a lengthy history of hamstring issues, and with Jordan Mason performing well during his absence, Jones may struggle to reclaim his early-season workload. Fantasy managers should prepare for a potential timeshare rather than a full return to feature-back duties.

Wednesday, October 8, 2:11 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (shoulder, ankle) remained sidelined at Wednesday's practice, putting his Week 6 status in serious doubt. He has now missed multiple sessions as he continues to recover from lingering injuries, leaving the Buccaneers to rely heavily on Rachaad White. White carried the load last week with 14 rushes for 41 yards and two touchdowns and should once again operate as the primary option against the 49ers. San Francisco's defense ranks 17th against the run, giving Tampa Bay a favorable matchup to continue establishing the run. Irving's absence limits his short-term fantasy outlook, but managers should keep him stashed in hopes of a potential return for the team's Week 7 matchup against the Lions.