Who Should I Start? Christian McCaffrey or James Conner

Tuesday, December 30, 6:50 PM

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (back) did not practice on Tuesday due to a back injury, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic. McCaffrey dealt with back stiffness earlier this month, too, but he didn't miss any time. The 29-year-old's back injury isn't very serious this time around, either, and it shouldn't keep him from playing a big role in a crucial divisional battle this Saturday night against the Seattle Seahawks that will determine the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoff picture. CMC was unstoppable in Sunday night's win over the Chicago Bears, going for a season-high 140 rushing yards and a touchdown on 23 rushing attempts. He also caught four of six targets for 41 yards as a receiver. McCaffrey won't find running room as easily to come by against Seattle, but he should still be considered a high-end RB1 option for fantasy managers still playing for something in Week 18.

Monday, September 22, 6:34 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (ankle) underwent season-ending surgery on Monday after suffering a significant right ankle injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game. Conner was carted off with his ankle immobilized, and head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed he won't return this season. With Conner sidelined, the Cardinals will turn to second-year back Trey Benson, who has been highly efficient, averaging 6.0 yards per carry (second among RBs). Gannon praised Benson before the season, noting he viewed both Conner and Benson as capable starters. Benson now projects as the lead option in Arizona's backfield, while Emari Demercado is expected to mix in behind him.