Who Should I Start? Kenneth Gainwell or Kenny McIntosh

Monday, November 24, 11:29 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell posted another solid fantasy effort in Week 12's loss to the hosting Chicago Bears, making the team's backfield situation less clear than it was a few weeks ago. Gainwell might not have had as much success as a receiver on Sunday as he did in Week 11's win, though he's now logged at least six receptions in back-to-back games and four or more in three of four. The 26-year-old's elevated workload in Pittsburgh's win over Cincinnati two Sundays ago can be explained away by teammate Jaylen Warren's mid-game injury. However, it's notable that Gainwell retained his passing game role with Warren fully healthy, particularly because offensive coordinator Arthur Smith sang the praises of the former earlier in the week. As it stands, both Steelers' RBs may boast a bit of value. However, Gainwell currently plays a more valuable part in PPR leagues. It's a backfield worth monitoring ahead of the fantasy playoffs.

Saturday, July 26, 8:46 PM

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Seattle Seahawks running back Kenny McIntosh (knee) is believed to have sustained a torn ACL. He suffered the injury during practice on Saturday, requiring assistance off the field. The 25-year-old finished the 2024 campaign with only 172 yards off 31 carries. He is competing for the No. 3 spot behind Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet while potentially serving as a return man on special teams. However, with McIntosh's season likely over, rookie Damien Martinez could replace him on the depth chart, although that won't help him be relevant for fantasy managers, at least as long as Walker and Charbonnet are healthy. McIntosh will undergo further testing, with an official diagnosis expected soon.