Who Should I Start? Christian McCaffrey or Tyjae Spears

Friday, October 11, 3:50 PM

The San Francisco 49ers won't open the practice window for running back Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) this week, according to head coach Kyle Shanahan. McCaffrey is ramping up his football activities as he deals with bi-lateral Achilles tendinitis in both of his legs, but he won't return to practice next week or be available to play in Week 7 for a Super Bowl rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs. CMC remains on Injured Reserve, and the 49ers are most likely targeting a potential return for last year's Offensive Player of the Year in Week 10 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after their Week 9 bye. Fantasy managers must remain patient and hope the 28-year-old can return to form quickly upon his return later this season. With Jordan Mason (shoulder) suffering an AC joint sprain in Thursday night's win over the Seahawks, rookie Isaac Guerendo could be called upon to start in Week 7 versus KC.

Thursday, October 17, 9:45 PM

Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears (hamstring) was absent during Thursday's practice session. This should come as little surprise after head coach Brian Callahan said Spears is currently considered as week-to-week. Spears picked up a hamstring injury last week that looks like it's going to cost him a few games. He has missed the first two practices this week and seems pretty safe to consider out for the Week 7 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. His absence should mean an increased workload for Tony Pollard. Third string back Julius Chestnut could be mixed in more, but Pollard is going to gain the most fantasy value in the absence of Spears.