Who Should I Start? Jonathan Ward or Patrick Taylor

Tuesday, November 12, 1:40 PM

The Pittsburgh Steelers signed free-agent running back Jonathan Ward to their practice squad on Tuesday. Ward will return to the team's practice squad after being cut less than a week ago. The 27-year-old will continue to provide running back depth for the Steelers behind Najee Harris (ankle), Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson while being well off the fantasy radar. The Central Michigan alum has actually appeared in four games for the Steelers this year in his first season with the team but has seen only five carries for 22 yards and hasn't been targeted in the passing game. Harris picked up a minor ankle injury in the Week 10 win over the Washington Commanders but is expected to play this Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, so Ward will most likely stick on the practice squad in Week 11.

Sunday, December 22, 10:41 PM

San Francisco 49ers running back Patrick Taylor Jr. had an uneventful first career start during a 29-17 loss to the Dolphins in Miami on Sunday. The former Green Bay Packer took eight carries for 24 yards and caught one of five targets for one-yard receiving. Sometimes in fantasy, it's easy to fall in love with expected volume and opportunity and look past talent. Even though Taylor Jr. entered the game first on the depth chart, he looked the part of the fringe player that he has been throughout his career. Taylor Jr. was outgained on the ground by both wideout Deebo Samuel Sr. and quarterback Brock Purdy. No other tailbacks were involved with the 49ers opting to throw the ball 40 times rather than lean on their stable of replacement-level backs. Next week, the 49ers will host the Detroit Lions with Taylor Jr.'s fantasy viability in Week 17 dependent on the availability of rookie Isaac Guerendo (foot, hamstring).