Who Should I Start? Kenneth Gainwell or Jordan James

Thursday, October 9, 10:31 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell exploded in Week 4's game in Ireland, but fantasy managers should temper expectations moving forward. With Jaylen Warren sidelined against the Minnesota Vikings, Gainwell took full advantage of the opportunity, racking up 134 total yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries. With Warren practicing ahead of Week 6, the former Eagles back will return to his RB2 role in the offense. A tough Week 6 matchup against the Cleveland Browns looms large, as Cleveland has allowed the fewest rushing yards in the NFL through five weeks. Even if he continues to earn touches behind Warren, Gainwell remains a risky fantasy start this week.

Saturday, September 27, 5:17 AM

San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan James did not appear on the team's injury report for the first time this season. James suffered a broken finger in early August, before preseason games started, and it lingered into the regular season. James had one full practice in Week 2 and three consecutive full sessions in Week 3, but was a healthy scratch from both games, so he is still waiting to make his professional debut. With Christian McCaffrey at the top of the depth chart and Brian Robinson Jr. having a firm grasp as his direct backup, James is unlikely to see much, if any, time on the field if he suits up on Sunday. As such, he has no value in fantasy football going into San Francisco's Week 4 game against Jacksonville.