Who Should I Start? Jordan Mason or Brian Thomas Jr.

Friday, December 5, 3:42 PM

Running back Jordan Mason of the Minnesota Vikings enters a Week 14 game with some lineup appeal as an RB2/flex candidate with the Washington Commanders coming to U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings have struggled immensely in recent weeks, but could see a reprieve in the form of a lowly ranked Commanders defense. Through 13 weeks, Washington is allowing scoring drives on nearly 49% of opposing possessions -- the worst rate in the NFL -- and ranks 29th overall against half-PPR running backs. That could line up well for Mason, who may see more work if Aaron Jones Sr. (shoulder) sees any issues with his lingering injury, though it bears mentioning that Jones does not carry an injury designation despite leaving last week's loss at Seattle. Minnesota will see the return of starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy (concussion) and likely will lean on the running game to aid the struggling passing attack. Relying on any Viking at the moment comes with risk, but the setting is good enough to consider playing Mason in Week 14.

Saturday, November 29, 10:57 AM

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (ankle) was a full participant at practice on Thursday and Friday and seems well recovered from the injury that held him out for three games. That doesn't necessarily mean he is in line for big game, however, as he hasn't been the most consistent fantasy option this season. The receiver room is also filled with competition still after the Jaguars traded for Jakobi Meyers to replace the injured Travis Hunter, and tight end Brenton Strange returned from injury. The Titans defense is very vulnerable, but game script should favor the rushing attack more. If Thomas Jr. can get involved early, he could have a good fantasy day, but that is a huge if in a huge Week 13 fantasy week.