Who Should I Start? Jeremy McNichols or Phil Mafah

Friday, November 14, 8:12 PM

Washington Commanders running back Jeremy McNichols hasn't been a relevant fantasy option in most leagues this season, serving as the team's third-down back. McNichols handled a season-high five carries for 25 yards in Washington's blowout loss last week to the Detroit Lions. The 25 yards were his most in a game since his Week 3 performance against the Raiders, where he rushed for 78 yards and a touchdown on four carries. The 29-year-old isn't involved enough to be considered outside of the deepest leagues.

Sunday, August 31, 4:05 PM

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Phil Mafah (shoulder) has been placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the regular season with a shoulder injury suffered in the preseason finale. The seventh-round pick out of Clemson showed flashes in the preseason with 15 carries for 59 yards and a touchdown, good for a solid 3.9 yards per carry. Standing six-foot and weighing 234 pounds, Mafah's big-bodied, between-the-tackles style was impressive in his final college season, rushing for 1,115 yards and eight touchdowns. His placement on IR is a setback, but with the Cowboys' current running back situation, a potential revolving door of Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and Jaydon Blue, Mafah remains a potential contributor later in the season. He is worth a roster spot in deeper dynasty leagues. Still, his fantasy value will stay uncertain until he returns to full health and the backfield situation becomes clearer throughout the season.