Who Should I Start? Joe Mixon or Brian Robinson Jr.

Tuesday, October 7, 11:41 AM

Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio said the team will have clarity on running back Joe Mixon's (foot/ankle) health status for the "duration of the year" at some point "over the next few weeks." Mixon has not played yet in 2025, and the team has provided little to no information about a possible return timeline. It seems possible, if not likely, that the 29-year-old will miss the entirety of the season. If that's the case, Houston will likely continue splitting backfield work between veteran Nick Chubb and rookie Woody Marks. Chubb has recorded 58 carries for 249 yards and two touchdowns so far this season. Marks has logged 233 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns on 42 total touches, and could eventually work his way into the lead role over the course of the season.

Thursday, October 2, 2:04 AM

San Francisco 49ers running back Brian Robinson Jr. still ranks second on the team's depth chart and is, in theory, their change-of-pace back to relieve Christian McCaffrey. The problem for Robinson is that the 49ers have shown little desire to get away from the superstar lately. In the first two weeks of 2025, Robinson got in on nearly one quarter of San Francisco's snaps. However, in Week 3, his share plummeted to 9% and rebounded slightly to a 15% share in Week 4. On the season, Robinson has a total of 22 rushing attempts for 96 yards and has seen just three targets, catching two for two receiving yards. Even with bye weeks underway, Robinson should not be considered a viable fantasy starter in Week 5, especially with the 49ers being featured on Thursday Night Football.