Who Should I Start? Chris Brooks or Phil Mafah

Friday, September 19, 5:25 PM

Green Bay Packers running back Chris Brooks looks to build on his minor role within the Packers' offense as they travel to Cleveland to play the Browns in Week 3. Brooks has played well above fellow running back Emanuel Wilson this season and has gained more snaps from Week 1 (9) to Week 2's 13. Brooks could see a little more time on the field with Josh Jacobs (ankle) a bit banged up, though Jacobs came off the injury report after three limited practice sessions. While Brooks remains a clear role player for the Packers, Brooks' role would increase if something were to happen to Jacobs. Brooks' situational role with the Packers keeps him well away from starting consideration for fantasy in Week 3.

Sunday, August 31, 4:05 PM

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Phil Mafah (shoulder) has been placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the regular season with a shoulder injury suffered in the preseason finale. The seventh-round pick out of Clemson showed flashes in the preseason with 15 carries for 59 yards and a touchdown, good for a solid 3.9 yards per carry. Standing six-foot and weighing 234 pounds, Mafah's big-bodied, between-the-tackles style was impressive in his final college season, rushing for 1,115 yards and eight touchdowns. His placement on IR is a setback, but with the Cowboys' current running back situation, a potential revolving door of Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and Jaydon Blue, Mafah remains a potential contributor later in the season. He is worth a roster spot in deeper dynasty leagues. Still, his fantasy value will stay uncertain until he returns to full health and the backfield situation becomes clearer throughout the season.