Who Should I Start? Brian Robinson Jr. or Tahj Brooks

Saturday, August 30, 11:08 AM

Once a sneaky candidate to back up star running back Christian McCaffrey, stock for San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan James has declined since the NFL Draft. The fifth-round pick broke a finger, forcing him to be sidelined for a few weeks. Then, the 49ers traded for former Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. Head coach Kyle Shanahan stated that Robinson is locked into the number two role, and second-year back Isaac Guerendo is currently manning the third spot on the depth chart. Although he's back on the practice field now, James may never get the chance to showcase his talents during a regular-season football game this season, barring a rash of injuries in the San Francisco backfield. Still, general manager John Lynch recently reconfirmed his confidence in the rookie, so dynasty managers shouldn't give up hope yet. The other three San Francisco running backs are regularly being selected in redraft leagues.

Saturday, August 30, 3:29 PM

According to James Rapien of SI, Cincinnati Bengals running back Tahj Brooks is projected to occupy the No. 3 spot on the depth chart behind Chase Brown and Samaje Perine. "Brown is locked in as the starter and will play a ton," wrote Rapien. "Perine will get plenty of snaps when Brown needs a break or on specific passing downs. Brooks is capable of doing a little bit of everything as a rookie. All three backs will play, but this is expected to be the 'Chase Brown Show.'" The 23-year-old was selected in the sixth round in April's NFL Draft after spending his collegiate career at Texas Tech. While he managed to find a place on the roster, his fantasy value is limited, even in dynasty formats, as long as Brown is in the equation. His worth as an insurance policy is also basically non-existent currently, especially with Perine in the mix. The Bengals will begin the 2025 campaign with a trip to Cleveland to face the Browns in an AFC North showdown.