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Running backs seem to be made of glass this season. Almost every running back has been injured in one way or another. This week is nothing different.
Some teams will be missing their starting running back, while others could be gaining their No. 1 back. Arian Foster is dealing with a hamstring injury, but luckily he’s on a bye in Week 8. Other starting running backs, Adrian Peterson, Frank Gore and Reggie Bush are all probable and ready to go on Sunday. There are six teams on a bye, making the list of available running backs very short.
Related: Fantasy Football Week 8: Eddie Lacy Still Flying Under the Radar
Here is the updated injury report for running backs heading into Sunday.
DeMarco Murray: Murray missed last week’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles with a knee injury. He was limited all week, but is expected to play. He has a good matchup this week against the Detroit Lions. They’ve allowed 17.1 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. Even with Murray coming back, expect Lance Dunbar and Joseph Randle to participate some in this game.
Prognosis: Check back Sunday morning.
C.J Spiller/Fred Jackson: As a sure-fired first-round pick, Spiller has been a big disappointment to those who drafted him. He continues to lose carries to his backup (or is Spiller the backup?) and has only one touchdown this season. Spiller is doubtful with an ankle injury. Jackson, on the other hand, is probable. He was limited all week with a knee injury. Third-string back Tashard Choice will see more carries with both backs banged up.
Prognosis: Spiller — Bench; Jackson — Will have limited carries, but good to go.
Rashard Mendenhall: The former Pittsburgh Steelers running back did not practice at all this week with a toe injury. It’s already been noted that rookie Andre Ellington will get the start. It’s doubtful that Mendenhall will see the field at all. The Atlanta Falcons allow the 10th-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs, making both running backs bad options for Week 8.
Prognosis: Do not start.
Steven Jackson: Jackson has been out since Week 2 with a hamstring injury. He was limited all week and is officially probable for Sunday. Jackson claimed he was ready to go last week, but one more week of rest can’t hurt. Jacquizz Rodgers should still be a part of this offense. With Roddy White banged up and Julio Jones done for the year, the Falcons can use all the help they can get.
Prognosis: Start if necessary, but would wait one more week.
Bill Pivetz is a fantasy football writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @Mr_Piv1127.
