Who Should I Start? Jermar Jefferson or Owen Wright

Tuesday, December 31, 9:23 AM

Detroit Lions running back Jermar Jefferson was given just three attempts during their victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Monday evening. However, all three attempts were within the San Francisco ten-yard line. With David Montgomery (knee) sidelined, Jahmyr Gibbs has been deployed as the workhorse option in this backfield, but with the Lions having little to play for regarding their position in the standings, they opted to give Gibbs occasional rest on Monday evening. While Gibbs still finished the game with 18 attempts and four targets, he would have likely been given this goal line work in a must-win situation. Instead, Jefferson was given some high-value touches but could not punch in any of them as he finished with just nine total yards. In addition, Jefferson saw four fewer carries than the presumed No.2 option, Craig Reynolds. Fantasy managers should expect Gibbs to take on a three-down role during Week 18 and throughout the entire postseason, leaving just a handful of attempts for Jefferson and Reynolds.

Sunday, August 10, 9:00 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Owen Wright put together a strong performance on the ground during Saturday's preseason matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Wright rushed the ball 18 times for 87 yards, including a 15-yard touchdown in the first quarter. It was the first preseason game, so a majority of the Bucs backups took the field in this one. Wright is currently competing for a spot on the roster behind Bucky Irving and Rachaad White. There's unlikely to be fantasy value here, but maybe a strong preseason can earn Wright a spot on the roster.