Who Should I Start? Jordan James or Phil Mafah

Sunday, September 7, 3:15 PM

San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan James (finger) is officially inactive for Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks. He had been listed as doubtful after logging three consecutive limited practices. James will have to wait at least one more week before making his NFL debut. The Oregon product was an effective runner in college, totaling 1,476 yards and 15 touchdowns during his final collegiate season. For now, San Francisco will operate with Brian Robinson Jr. and Isaac Guerendo in depth roles behind Christian McCaffrey.

Sunday, August 31, 4:05 PM

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Phil Mafah (shoulder) has been placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the regular season with a shoulder injury suffered in the preseason finale. The seventh-round pick out of Clemson showed flashes in the preseason with 15 carries for 59 yards and a touchdown, good for a solid 3.9 yards per carry. Standing six-foot and weighing 234 pounds, Mafah's big-bodied, between-the-tackles style was impressive in his final college season, rushing for 1,115 yards and eight touchdowns. His placement on IR is a setback, but with the Cowboys' current running back situation, a potential revolving door of Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and Jaydon Blue, Mafah remains a potential contributor later in the season. He is worth a roster spot in deeper dynasty leagues. Still, his fantasy value will stay uncertain until he returns to full health and the backfield situation becomes clearer throughout the season.