Who Should I Start? Kimani Vidal or Jordan James

Wednesday, February 11, 6:59 AM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal emerged as a viable NFL rusher in 2025, recording 643 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 155 carries across 13 games played (10 starts). Vidal was thrust into a feature role in the Chargers' backfield early in the season after Los Angeles backs Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris went on Injured Reserve with ankle and Achilles injuries, respectively. A first-round draft pick in 2025, Hampton looks like the long-term RB1 in Los Angeles as long as he can return to full health in 2026 and beyond. However, Vidal may have done enough in 2025 to prove he is worthy of maintaining a role alongside Hampton. Additionally, the Chargers have brought in former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel as their offensive coordinator heading into 2026. In his time in Miami, McDaniel's best offenses supported quality fantasy production from multiple running backs. Vidal's dynasty upside is limited by Hampton's presence, but he still may be worth rostering as a solid handcuff option with some level of standalone appeal.

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.