Who Should I Start? Jordan Mason or Tyjae Spears

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.

Tuesday, November 4, 11:59 AM

In five games since returning from an ankle injury that held him out to start the 2025 season, Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears has recorded 248 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 43 touches. The 24-year-old has been a consistent feature in the Titans' passing game, earning at least four targets and three receptions in each of his last four contests. Spears and veteran back Tony Pollard have been splitting backfield work relatively evenly in Tennessee. However, Pollard's name has been floated on the trade block, and there's a chance the rebuilding Titans move him before Tuesday's trade deadline. Spears could move into must-start territory as a fantasy running back if Pollard is moved. Even if the Titans hold on to Pollard, Spears has flex appeal in the right matchups. In shallow leagues where Spears remains available, he's worth targeting on the waiver wire even as the Titans hit their Week 10 bye.