Who Should I Start? D'Ernest Johnson or Phil Mafah

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.

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.