Who Should I Start? Jeremy McNichols or Phil Mafah

Saturday, October 25, 7:48 PM

Washington Commanders running back Jeremy McNichols has been an important player this season, playing a vital role in pass protection and as a receiving option out of the backfield. McNichols has played at least 25% of offensive snaps over the last five weeks. He had his highest combined yardage total since Week 3 in last week's game against the Dallas Cowboys, handling two carries for 22 yards and catching two of three targets for 23 yards. The 29-year-old has recorded seven targets over the last two weeks and has made big plays when his number has been called. His involvement in the passing game keeps him somewhat relevant in deeper leagues, but he hasn't had more than five touches in any game this season. McNichols will be a touchdown-dependent option in deeper PPR formats for Monday Night Football against the Chiefs.

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.