Who Should I Start? Aaron Jones Sr. or Travis Etienne Jr.

Monday, December 22, 7:02 PM

Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (ankle) was listed as a limited participant on Monday's practice report. The Vikings conducted a walk-through on Monday, so this designation is based on an estimation from the team. Jones and fellow running back Jordan Mason (ankle) both exited during the first quarter of Sunday's win over the New York Giants, but unlike Mason, Jones was able to return. The veteran ball-carrier is trending in the right direction for Week 17 against the Detroit Lions, but fantasy managers should still monitor the Vikings' upcoming practice reports for additional updates. Jones could actually take on a slightly larger role this week if Mason, who was estimated as a non-participant on Monday, doesn't suit up. As it stands, he ranks as a mid-to-low RB2.

Saturday, December 20, 11:41 AM

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. should be in many starting lineups despite a tough Week 16 matchup with the Denver Broncos. He mustered three receiving touchdowns in a huge passing day for the Jaguars' offense last week. That receiving work gives Etienne Jr. a high floor. With backup running back Bhayshul Tuten (finger) out with a finger injury, Etienne Jr.'s upside increases. That floor and upside combination makes Etienne Jr. a great starting option this week, even though the Broncos are second-best in the NFL in rushing yards allowed. While he should be slightly downgraded, managers should feel comfortable starting Etienne Jr. in their Week 16 playoff matchups.