Who Should I Start? Raheem Mostert or Jaleel McLaughlin

Wednesday, November 19, 12:54 AM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Raheem Mostert has served as the primary backup to rookie Ashton Jeanty in his age-33 season, recording 19 carries for 90 yards and six catches (six targets) for 45 yards in seven games. Jeanty has held down one of the heaviest workloads in the league, which has resulted in Mostert's most touches in a game being seven, which came back in Week 5 against the Colts. The veteran back has also served on special teams as a kick returner, leading the league with a 30.9 average yards per return. Even if Jeanty were to miss time, the offensive line and overall offensive environment don't create a lot of upside for Mostert as a contingency option.

Thursday, November 20, 12:54 AM

Denver Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin is ascending into a deep-league fantasy option as he heads into a Week 12 bye. After J.K. Dobbins (foot) was placed on IR, the 25-year-old went from being a healthy scratch to the backup in Denver, where he handled six carries and a reception last week. He was relatively inefficient (3.2 YPC), but he did score a touchdown and averaged more yards per carry than R.J. Harvey. As a result of the touchdown, he salvaged his fantasy performance and had low-end value in deeper leagues. He should build on this momentum with a larger role in Week 13, assuming he earns more snaps in the Broncos' backfield timeshare. Harvey remains the primary ball-carrier, but McLaughlin is suddenly on the fantasy radar as a mid-range RB4 and potential deep-league streamer going forward.