Who Should I Start? Jordan James or Raheim Sanders

Wednesday, August 27, 10:17 PM

San Francisco 49ers rookie running back Jordan James (finger) returned to practice on Wednesday, per David Lombardi of The San Francisco Standard. James has been sidelined since early August with a broken finger, but appears on track to be ready for Week 1. The 21-year-old was pushed down the team's depth chart when the 49ers acquired veteran running back Brian Robinson Jr. from the Washington Commanders. However, James could open the season as the RB3 in San Francisco if second-year back Isaac Guerendo (shoulder) misses time due to an ongoing shoulder issue. James would likely need multiple injuries to the backs ahead of him to be fantasy-relevant in 2025, but he's a name to be aware of in dynasty leagues.

Thursday, August 28, 12:11 AM

The Cleveland Browns have claimed running back Raheim Sanders off waivers from the Los Angeles Chargers. The 23-year-old went undrafted out of South Carolina earlier this offseason. He was productive during the preseason, totaling 28 carries for 101 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Although he looked solid this summer, it wasn't enough for him to earn a roster spot over Najee Harris, Omarion Hampton, or Hassan Haskins. He has a much more reasonable path to playing time with the Browns, who remain in a contract stalemate with rookie running back Quinshon Judkins. Sanders immediately slots in third on the Browns' depth chart behind Jerome Ford and Dylan Sampson. He should be avoided in most redraft leagues, but he might be worth stashing in the deepest dynasty leagues given that he could see some opportunities out of the backfield this year.