Who Should I Start? Kyle Monangai or Phil Mafah

Saturday, October 11, 12:16 PM

Chicago Bears rookie running back Kyle Monangai will look to build on his growing role coming out of the team's bye week. Through four games, the seventh-round pick has logged 17 carries for 62 yards and added three receptions for 23 yards. While his production has been limited, head coach Ben Johnson has praised Monangai for making the most of his opportunities. With D'Andre Swift off to a slow start, Monangai could begin to push for a larger share of the backfield touches in the coming weeks. However, the matchup against the Washington Commanders isn't favorable, as they've allowed the 10th-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season. Monangai isn't a fantasy option just yet, but managers should keep an eye on his usage Monday night, as the rookie could quietly carve out a bigger role in Week 6 and beyond.

Sunday, August 31, 4:05 PM

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Phil Mafah (shoulder) has been placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the regular season with a shoulder injury suffered in the preseason finale. The seventh-round pick out of Clemson showed flashes in the preseason with 15 carries for 59 yards and a touchdown, good for a solid 3.9 yards per carry. Standing six-foot and weighing 234 pounds, Mafah's big-bodied, between-the-tackles style was impressive in his final college season, rushing for 1,115 yards and eight touchdowns. His placement on IR is a setback, but with the Cowboys' current running back situation, a potential revolving door of Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and Jaydon Blue, Mafah remains a potential contributor later in the season. He is worth a roster spot in deeper dynasty leagues. Still, his fantasy value will stay uncertain until he returns to full health and the backfield situation becomes clearer throughout the season.