Who Should I Start? Chris Brooks or Phil Mafah

Tuesday, November 18, 7:24 PM

Green Bay Packers running back Chris Brooks could possibly see a larger role on offense this weekend. Lead back Josh Jacobs (knee) is uncertain to suit up for the Week 12 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. If he sits, Emanuel Wilson is likely to take over as the lead back in Green Bay. That means, Brooks would move up to the primary backup if Jacobs is unavailable. Brooks hasn't played much this season, but that's not surprising for a third string back. He could be worth a look as a desperation flex play if Jacobs is ruled out.

Monday, January 5, 11:00 AM

Dallas Cowboys running back Phil Mafah got his first taste of NFL action in Week 18 against the New York Giants and finished the game with 29 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown on seven touches. A seventh-round pick out of Clemson in the 2025 NFL draft, Mafah spent most of his rookie season on Injured Reserve with a shoulder injury. He got his chance to make an impression in Week 18 due to injuries to Cowboys running backs Javonte Williams (shoulder, neck) and Malik Davis (calf, eye). Heading into 2026, the Cowboys' running back room is in flux. Williams was the team's clear RB1 throughout the 2025 season, but he will hit free agency and is uncertain to be retained. Davis is also a free agent, though Dallas holds his restricted free agent rights. Depending on how the Cowboys choose to address the running back position this offseason, Mafah could find himself battling with 2025 fifth-rounder Jaydon Blue for a role in the Dallas backfield.