Who Should I Start? Jonathan Taylor or Jonathon Brooks

Friday, December 12, 10:30 PM

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor has had a stellar season. The 26-year-old leads the league in several rushing categories, including yards (1,356) and touchdowns (16). He also ranks second in attempts (247), two behind James Cook III (249). At this point, Taylor appears to be well on his way to having the best season of his career. Unfortunately, the 2020 No. 41 overall pick has cooled since finding the end zone three times versus the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin back in Week 10, scoring only once in his last three appearances. With four regular-season games left on the schedule, Indianapolis is looking for a much-needed win over Seattle on Sunday in hopes of climbing back to the top of the AFC South. However, the Colts have to figure out a way to win without Daniel Jones (Achilles), who will miss the remainder of the 2025 campaign. That means Indy will turn to the recently un-retired Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee) to take over under center in Week 15. All things considered, both quarterbacks could have a tough time getting anything going against a formidable Seahawks defense, meaning Taylor may get his number called even more than usual. Granted, JT might not have the easiest day either, considering Seattle has allowed just four rushing touchdowns this season. Still, despite the challenging matchup on the horizon, Taylor remains a must-start in all season-long fantasy formats. On the other hand, DFS managers should consider alternative options.

Monday, December 8, 12:54 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks (knee) is exactly a year removed from tearing his right ACL for a second time, but he said that he feels "pretty much almost 100 percent again," according to Joe Person of The Athletic. Brooks is doing straight-line running and hopes to start mixing in full-speed cutting and route running soon. Barring a setback, he could return to the practice field in the spring for organized team activities (OTAs). The 22-year-old was the team's second-round pick back in 2024 out of Texas. Since his injury, the Panthers signed Rico Dowdle in free agency and took Trevor Etienne in the fourth round of this year's draft. Dowdle has been one of the best backs in the NFL this year and has formed a dangerous 1-2 punch in Carolina's backfield with Chuba Hubbard. Any expectations fantasy managers holding Brooks might have in dynasty/keeper leagues must be tempered by concerns of injury risk.