Joe Mixon Injured: Who to Start in Fantasy?
Joe Mixon's injury has left fantasy managers scrambling to find a replacement. So who should you start in his absence?
Joe Mixon, the Bengals' star running back, has been sidelined with a groin injury, leaving fantasy managers in a tough spot. With Mixon's status uncertain, it's crucial to find a suitable replacement who can fill the void in your lineup.
Who are the Top Options?
Here are some running backs to consider starting in Week 8, given Mixon's injury:
**1. ** Samaje Perine (Cincinnati Bengals): As Mixon's primary backup, Perine is the obvious choice. He's already proven his worth with a strong performance against the Browns in Week 7, rushing for 105 yards and a touchdown. Expect Perine to handle a significant workload, making him a must-start in fantasy.
**2. ** Rhamondre Stevenson (New England Patriots): If you're looking for a strong floor option, Stevenson is a solid choice. He's consistently performed well, averaging over 4 yards per carry and finding the endzone multiple times. Stevenson is a reliable workhorse back and can be a valuable asset in fantasy leagues.
**3. ** D'Onta Foreman (Carolina Panthers): Foreman has emerged as a prominent figure in the Panthers' offense. He's averaging over 100 rushing yards per game and has scored multiple touchdowns in recent weeks. Foreman's ability to be a volume monster makes him a strong start in Mixon's absence.
**4. ** Isiah Pacheco (Kansas City Chiefs): Pacheco has steadily seen his role expand in the Chiefs' offense. He's a powerful runner with a big-play ability, and he's becoming a more reliable receiving option. If you're looking for a potential breakout player, Pacheco could be a good option.
Other Options to Consider:
- James Cook (Buffalo Bills): Cook has been a solid contributor in the Bills' offense, averaging over 4 yards per carry. He's a versatile back who can make an impact in both the running and passing game.
- Alexander Mattison (Minnesota Vikings): Mattison is a reliable option who can fill in for Dalvin Cook. He's shown the ability to be a volume rusher and a consistent fantasy contributor.
- Ken Walker III (Seattle Seahawks): Walker III is a young, explosive runner with a high ceiling. He's been dealing with injuries, but if healthy, he could be a valuable asset in fantasy.
Remember to check the latest injury reports and news before making your lineup decisions.
Beyond the Running Backs:
While these running backs are solid options, it's also important to consider other factors like your league's scoring format and the matchups for the week. Don't be afraid to take a chance on a player who has a good matchup or is expected to have an increased role in their offense.
Final Thoughts:
Joe Mixon's injury is a significant blow to fantasy managers, but it's not the end of the world. There are plenty of capable replacements available, and with some careful analysis, you can still find a player who can contribute to your success. Good luck!
