Who Should I Start? J.J. McCarthy or Kaleb Johnson

Friday, October 31, 4:59 PM

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle) is set to return to the starting lineup on Sunday against Detroit, but the biggest question for fantasy managers should be whether the team can keep him upright. The Vikings, who have the second-worst sack rate in the league, are coming off a miserable showing last week in which they ran just 47 plays and gained 146 yards. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee) has been in and out of the lineup, right tackle Brian O'Neill (knee) has no designation this week but missed all of last game, and center Ryan Kelly (concussion) is on injured reserve. Still, with skill players like wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, there is at least some hope that McCarthy's return can provide a jolt to an offense that sorely needs it. Playing at Detroit is a tough start, however, so managers should consider McCarthy only in deeper leagues with a superflex spot.

Tuesday, October 28, 9:12 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie running back Kaleb Johnson recorded his second straight game without a carry in Week 8. The 22-year-old appears to be completely buried on the Steelers' depth chart at running back behind veterans Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. Johnson has logged just 36 rushing yards on 14 attempts so far in his rookie season. Beyond his lack of touches, Johnson has not played an offensive snap in either of Pittsburgh's last two games. Unless there's an injury to one or both of Warren and Gainwell, Johnson should remain off the radar of redraft fantasy managers.