Who Should I Start? Jaylen Warren or Kenneth Walker III

Monday, January 5, 2:37 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren had been ceding touches to Kenneth Gainwell in recent weeks, but in Sunday night's division-clinching win over the Ravens, he carried the ball 14 times for 66 yards, while catching all five of his targets for an additional 33 yards through the air. The 19 total opportunities were his most since a Week 7 loss to the Bengals, and his reliability in the passing game could again be on display in a Wild Card matchup with the Texans. Houston's front seven has been one of the league's toughest fronts to run against, but with Warren and Gainwell, the Steelers can essentially move their running game into space with short passes, putting both in line for favorable PPR stat lines. With Warren also first in line to handle the bulk of carries, he makes for a sneaky start in the first week of fantasy playoff leagues.

Friday, December 26, 7:42 PM

Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III is in a great position to exploit a weak Carolina Panthers' rushing defense in Week 17. Carolina's defense has improved overall this year, but the rushing defense remains a problem. The Panthers are 25th against opposing running backs in fantasy. Additionally, Carolina is allowing 4.76 yards per carry to opposing running backs. This matchup is the remedy needed for a struggling Seahawks' rushing game. It could allow Walker to build on his best performance of the season in Week 16 when he scored 25.40 fantasy points against a tough Rams defense. Walker's volume is going to remain in the 12 to 15-touch range, but his potential for a big play will be high in Week 17. He is still a flex consideration considering his low floor, but Walker has RB1 upside this week. If you are a heavy underdog in your matchup, Walker could provide the upside you need to balance the playing field.