Who Should I Start? Dameon Pierce or Roschon Johnson

Saturday, November 16, 6:33 PM

Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce (groin) has been removed from the injury report ahead of the Week 11 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. Pierce is set to get back on the field for the first time since Week 8. He has been banged up this season and has only played in four games, but is expected to be the primary backup to Joe Mixon. The return of Pierce should take some of the workload off Mixon, but Pierce is unlikely to play enough to warrant starting in fantasy formats.

Saturday, November 23, 5:35 AM

Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson is a speculative play in Week 12 as he faces a daunting matchup against the Minnesota Vikings' elite run defense. The Bears' backfield rotation continues, making Johnson a potential dart throw for fantasy managers in deeper leagues or those searching for a sleeper. In limited action last week, Johnson showcased his goal-line potential, rushing 10 times for 33 yards and a touchdown, which is encouraging for those hoping he'll see more opportunities in Week 12. With starter D'Andre Swift (groin) limited in practice this week, there's a chance Johnson could see an uptick in touches, though Swift practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play. Johnson's fantasy viability this week largely depends on whether the Bears can get into the red zone and decide to use him in short-yardage situations. The Vikings rank 4th in points allowed per game and 1st in EPA per rush, making it difficult to trust any back in this matchup. For fantasy managers dealing with bye-week fill-ins, Johnson could be a desperation play with touchdown upside. His value hinges on the Bears' ability to push the ball inside the 5-yard line and give him a chance to punch it in.