Who Should I Start? Cordarrelle Patterson or Royce Freeman

Saturday, October 12, 1:16 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back/kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle) missed practice all week and was ruled out for the Week 6 contest this Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Patterson hurt his ankle in the Week 4 loss to the Indianapolis Colts and missed the Week 5 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. The 33-year-old hasn't practiced in the last two weeks, so he could be in danger of missing another game in Week 7 against the New York Jets. His absence will be felt more for Pittsburgh on special teams than it will on offense, and the backfield will be getting a boost with Jaylen Warren (knee) returning after sitting out last week. Patterson, a four-time Pro Bowl kick returner, has seen only 16 carries in four games this season in his first year in Pittsburgh for 92 rushing yards, also catching five passes for 34 yards. He belongs on the waiver wire in most fantasy formats.

Wednesday, September 18, 1:10 AM

The Cleveland Browns have signed free-agent running back Royce Freeman to their practice squad. Freeman, a seven-year veteran, was released by the Dallas Cowboys in August and now joins the Browns. A third-round draft pick by the Denver Broncos in 2018, he has also played for the Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans, and Los Angeles Rams. Last season, Freeman appeared in 14 games with the Rams, accumulating 319 yards and two touchdowns. With Nick Chubb and Nyheim Hines sidelined, the Browns have been thin at running back, and as of Tuesday, Pierre Strong Jr. is listed as "week to week" with a hamstring injury. Jerome Ford and D'Onta Foreman have been handling the majority of the carries. Freeman must establish a significant role before fantasy managers consider adding him to their rosters. He could have an opportunity to contribute as soon as this Sunday against the Giants.