Who Should I Start? Samaje Perine or Jonathan Taylor

Sunday, October 1, 10:45 PM

Denver Broncos running back Samaje Perine didn't take advantage of an opportunity for a bigger role in the 31-28 comeback win over the Chicago Bears in Week 4 on Sunday when Javonte Williams (hip) left the game for good in the first half. Perine handled six carries, one less than undrafted rookie Jaleel McLaughlin, and picked up only 12 yards (2.0 yards per tote) on the ground. He added 23 receiving yards while hauling in both of his targets through the air. The 28-year-old could have a bigger role moving forward if Williams is forced to miss any time with his injury, but Perine has so far been a disappointment through his first four weeks with the Broncos and could be behind McLaughlin in the pecking order. Even if Williams is unavailable for a tough Week 5 matchup against the New York Jets, Perine will be hard to recommend as an RB3/flex.

Monday, October 2, 6:04 PM

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (ankle) will practice for the first time this year on Wednesday, and there's a chance he could make his 2023 debut this Sunday in Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans. Taylor last played in an NFL game last Dec. 17 before a lingering right-ankle injury forced him to Injured Reserve. He had surgery on Jan. 26, which kept him from offseason work and training camp while also dealing with an ugly contract impasse that led to a trade demand. The Colts have opened Taylor's 21-day window to return from the Physically Unable to Perform list. The 24-year-old is reportedly stoked to get back to playing, but fantasy managers that have had him stashed this whole time should temper expectations if he's officially active this Sunday.