Who Should I Start? Jordan Mason or Kenneth Walker III

Tuesday, November 4, 6:30 PM

Though Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (shoulder) left Sunday's win at Detroit, the team does not believe the injury is serious, which could mean a changing role for fellow running back Jordan Mason. The first-year Viking held down the backfield in Jones' absence with a hamstring injury, but Jones was the more effective of the two options against Detroit by gaining 42 more yards on one fewer carry. Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said the team found "an element of play style and physicality" that it had been lacking, and Jones was the main benefactor. Additionally, Mason probably hasn't helped his cause with a few bad pass-blocking reps that contributed to sacks during the past two weeks. Minnesota may opt to ride the hot hand at running back every week, which can be tricky from a fantasy perspective. But if the Vikings aim to recreate their successful Week 9 game plan, Jones may feature more than Mason in the weeks to come.

Friday, October 31, 6:29 PM

Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III is a flex play in Week 9 against the Washington Commanders. The Commanders' defense has been middle-of-the-pack against opposing running backs in fantasy. However, it may be difficult for Walker to exploit the matchup while he continues to split time with Zach Charbonnet in this backfield. Walker is currently the RB28 in fantasy, and he has not scored more than 9.6 fantasy points since Week 4. His rushing volume has remained solid, but he is a non-factor in the receiving game. He has one or fewer receptions in six of seven games this year. With no receiving volume, Walker's upside is completely capped. Given that Charbonnet is the goal line back, Walker needs to break off a big play to be fantasy relevant. Based on where you drafted him, you may not have a better option with four teams on a bye. He is a flex option with limited upside in Week 9.