Who Should I Start? Joe Mixon or Cam Akers

Thursday, September 18, 10:46 AM

Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon may not carry much fantasy relevance in 2025. The veteran is coming off a strong 2024 campaign in which he finished inside the top 10 in rushing yards per game and ranked as the RB8 in half-PPR formats. But Mixon has yet to play this season due to a foot/ankle injury , and many have speculated whether Mixon will even play this season. In his absence, Nick Chubb has stepped in as the lead back. Chubb has looked revitalized after last year's knee injury, currently ranking 20th in rushing yards and 12th in yards before contact. With Chubb producing, a committee approach likely on the horizon, and Houston's offensive line struggling, Mixon's fantasy outlook looks bleak, even if he does return later in the year.

Sunday, September 21, 12:29 AM

According to the team, the Minnesota Vikings have elevated running back Cam Akers and offensive lineman Henry Byrd to the active roster ahead of their Week 3 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. Akers joined Minnesota's practice squad a few days ago, with veteran rusher Aaron Jones (hamstring) heading to IR. In an interesting turn of events, the 26-year-old is listed ahead of teammate Zavier Scott on Minnesota's depth chart, and could immediately see work behind lead back Jordan Mason. Over the first two weeks, head coach Kevin O'Connell had deployed a fairly even split between Jones and Mason. That may not be the case with Akers, but he's exceedingly familiar with the system, making him an excellent choice to spell Mason. The Florida State product will be on the radar as a low-end handcuff in deep leagues if he garners decent work this weekend. At least, until Jones returns, that is.