Who Should I Start? James Cook or Quinshon Judkins

Wednesday, September 17, 1:33 PM

After a stellar performance in a Week 2 win over the New York Jets, Buffalo Bills running back James Cook will take on one of the NFL's lowest-ranked run defenses on Thursday. Cook will match up against the division-rival Miami Dolphins, who have surrendered the eighth-most rushing yards per game (139.0) and the sixth-most fantasy points to running backs through two weeks. New England Patriots RB Rhamondre Stevenson had his way with the Dolphins last Sunday, as he piled up 142 total yards (54 rushing, 88 receiving) on 16 touches. Cook ranks fourth in the league in rushing yards (176) and has already found the end zone three times on the ground through two games. While Cook may have trouble matching last week's production (21 carries, 132 yards, two TDs), especially if he gets a lighter workload on a short week, he profiles as an RB1 going into Thursday.

Tuesday, September 16, 7:32 PM

Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins has been listed as the team's starting back on this week's depth chart. The rookie played just 26% of the snaps in Week 2 but was effective with his touches, rushing 10 times for 66 yards in his NFL debut. Judkins signed his rookie deal shortly before Week 1 and eased into action against the Baltimore Ravens, but being elevated to the top of the depth chart is an encouraging sign for his role going forward. That said, Week 3 sets up as a tough spot. The Browns face the Green Bay Packers, who have been one of the league's stingiest defenses to start the season. With a negative game script possible, Judkins should be viewed as a low-end FLEX option in deeper leagues this week, though his long-term outlook is trending up.