Who Should I Start? D'Ernest Johnson or Patrick Taylor Jr.

Saturday, August 23, 3:25 PM

Baltimore Ravens running back D'Ernest Johnson posted a solid stat-line in the 30-3 preseason victory over the Washington Commanders, carrying the ball 17 times for 45 yards and scoring one touchdown, adding three receptions for 18 yards. Johnson's significant workload came while Baltimore primarily utilized their third and fourth-stringers most of the game. Despite this notable preseason performance, Johnson is not currently featured on the Ravens' official depth chart and is actively competing with Rasheen Ali to be the team's fourth running back. Given his current status, this game is unlikely to have a significant impact on Johnson's fantasy value as he remains off the radar for nearly all redraft leagues.

Wednesday, August 20, 9:56 AM

The San Francisco 49ers have placed veteran running back Patrick Taylor Jr. (shoulder) on the season-ending injured reserve list. Taylor suffered a dislocated shoulder in the team's second preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders, and he joins the growing list of 49ers running backs struck by injury. While presumed backup Isaac Guerendo (shoulder) was able to return to practice on Tuesday after missing several weeks with a shoulder injury of his own, the team has already lost Ameer Abdullah (ribs) for the season. Rookie Jordan James has already missed a few weeks due to a broken finger. After trading Jordan Mason to the Minnesota Vikings, the 49ers' running back depth has been seriously tested already, which is the last thing the team needs in their efforts to keep All-Pro Christian McCaffrey healthy. Jeff Wilson Jr. and Ke'Shawn Vaughn will likely see the majority of work in the team's final preseason game. If he can remain healthy, McCaffrey once more enters the year as perhaps the biggest difference maker in fantasy football. Still, given his checkered injury history, Guerendo is one of the league's most important backups to roster.