Fantasy Football: Replacing Joe Mixon After Injury
The news is out: Joe Mixon is injured. Panic sets in, and the questions start flying: Who do I pick up to replace him? Mixon's absence is a huge blow to your fantasy team, but don't despair. We've got you covered with some solid options to fill the void in your backfield.
Evaluating Your Options
The first step is understanding your roster and your league's format. Do you need a workhorse back to handle a heavy workload, or are you looking for a pass-catching back to complement your existing skillset? Are you in a PPR league or a standard league?
Here's a breakdown of the most likely scenarios:
Scenario 1: You need a volume monster.
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Samaje Perine (Cincinnati Bengals): The obvious choice for Mixon's replacement, Perine is a proven runner who already knows the Bengals' system. He should see an increased workload and could be a steal in most fantasy leagues.
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Kenneth Walker III (Seattle Seahawks): Walker has shown flashes of brilliance this season and could be primed for a breakout with Rashaad Penny sidelined. If you're in a deeper league, he's definitely worth a shot.
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D'Andre Swift (Philadelphia Eagles): Swift is a talented back who is currently in a timeshare with Miles Sanders. If Sanders goes down with an injury, Swift could see a significant uptick in value.
Scenario 2: You need a pass-catching back.
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James Cook (Buffalo Bills): Cook is an explosive pass-catching back who has shown flashes of his potential in Buffalo. He should see a boost in targets with Mixon off the field.
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Rhamondre Stevenson (New England Patriots): Stevenson is a powerful back with surprising agility in the passing game. He's a strong option for PPR leagues.
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Isiah Pacheco (Kansas City Chiefs): Pacheco is a powerful runner who can also contribute in the passing game. With the Chiefs' explosive offense, he could have a big game in your lineup.
Other Considerations:
- Look for handcuffs: If your starting running back goes down, their backup usually sees a significant increase in value.
- Waiver wire steals: Keep an eye on the waiver wire for players who might be underperforming or who are in situations that could improve.
- Don't overreact: The fantasy football season is long. While losing Mixon hurts, don't make rash decisions that could hurt your team in the long run.
Final Thoughts:
Replacing Joe Mixon will be a tough task, but with the right strategy, you can find a suitable replacement who can help you navigate this difficult situation. Remember to evaluate your options carefully and make the best decisions for your team's long-term success. Good luck!
