Who Should I Start? Rashaad Penny or James Cook

Tuesday, July 30, 11:14 AM

The Carolina Panthers have placed running back Rashaad Penny on the reserve/retired list. Penny, who joined the Panthers this offseason, was set to reunite with head coach Dave Canales, the passing game coordinator during Penny's standout 2021 season with the Seattle Seahawks, and Brad Idzik, now the Panthers' offensive coordinator. Unfortunately, a series of injuries including multiple strains, a torn ACL, and a fibula fracture have hindered Penny's once-explosive performance. Despite rigorous rehab, he struggled to regain the speed that made him a dynamic force in college. Penny's 5.6 yards per carry would be the highest in NFL history if he had sustained it. He also recorded 2,248 rushing yards at San Diego State in 2017, ranking fifth for a single season in NCAA history. The former first-round pick had stints with the Seattle Seahawks and Philadelphia Eagles before signing with the Panthers in May. Penny retires with 1,931 career rushing yards, 13 touchdowns on 348 carries, and 28 receptions for 227 yards.

Thursday, October 10, 2:06 PM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (foot/toe) is not practicing on Tuesday after missing Monday's practice with foot and toe injuries. The third-year ball carrier out of Georgia appears to be in real danger of missing the Week 6 game against the New York Jets, but the game is on Monday, so fantasy managers will need to stay tuned throughout the week. Cook has three weekly RB1 finishes in PPR leagues, so his absence could be a major problem for his managers. If he can't play, veteran Ty Johnson and rookie Ray Davis will likely share the backfield against a New York Jets defense that has surrendered the eighth-fewest fantasy points per game to running backs in 2024.