Who Should I Start? James Conner or Brian Robinson Jr.

Monday, September 22, 6:34 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (ankle) underwent season-ending surgery on Monday after suffering a significant right ankle injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game. Conner was carted off with his ankle immobilized, and head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed he won't return this season. With Conner sidelined, the Cardinals will turn to second-year back Trey Benson, who has been highly efficient, averaging 6.0 yards per carry (second among RBs). Gannon praised Benson before the season, noting he viewed both Conner and Benson as capable starters. Benson now projects as the lead option in Arizona's backfield, while Emari Demercado is expected to mix in behind him.

Tuesday, December 9, 11:12 AM

Across 13 games this season, San Francisco 49ers running back Brian Robinson Jr. has recorded 72 carries for 328 yards and two touchdowns. While Robinson Jr. has been efficient with his touches, the 26-year-old has not recorded more than nine carries or 53 rushing yards in any game. As long as star 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey remains healthy, Robinson Jr. will stay in a supporting role. However, if McCaffrey were to suffer an injury, Robinson Jr. would immediately vault into being a must-start fantasy running back. As the fantasy season winds to a close, Robinson Jr.'s lack of standalone value is less important. In all leagues with 12 or more teams, Robinson Jr. should be a waiver wire target heading into his Week 15 matchup against the Tennessee Titans.