Who Should I Start? David Njoku or Rhamondre Stevenson

Wednesday, September 18, 1:02 PM

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said on Wednesday that tight end David Njoku (ankle) is unlikely to play in the Week 3 contest this Sunday against the New York Giants due to the ankle injury he suffered in the season-opening loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Njoku was inactive in the Week 2 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars and is now set to miss a second straight game. In his absence last Sunday, Jordan Akins saw a role increase at the tight end position, but it led to only one catch on one target for a 10-yard gain. Akins had better production (three catches for 27 yards) with Njoku active in Week 1. The 28-year-old Njoku should remain stashed in most fantasy formats while he heals. We'll have a better idea early next week as to whether Njoku will have a chance to return for Cleveland's Week 4 contest on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.

Wednesday, September 18, 4:46 PM

New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson remains an intriguing fantasy football option for Week 3 versus the New York Jets given his usage and efficiency within the team's offense. He has one touchdown in each of his first two games this year, and he's also averaging a whopping 27 opportunities per contest. With 4.37 YPC to his name, the 26-year-old has the volume and efficiency needed to thrive in fantasy football. The biggest factors holding him back from the mid-range RB1 tier are receiving usage and ball security. He's been involved on passing downs in the past, but so far this season, he hasn't exceeded three catches in a single game. He also has a fumble in each of his contests. He's lucky both were recovered by the Patriots, but the fact of the matter is that he could lose some opportunities if he continues to have trouble holding on the football. Nevertheless, volume is key at the running back position. Stevenson's usage and touchdown upside make him a very appealing RB2 option heading into Week 3 against the New York Jets.