Early in the season, Maurice Jones-Drew got the start over Darren McFadden for the Oakland Raiders when both backs were healthy. After a hand injury forced MJD to miss the last three weeks, the backfield depth chart is changing.
Bill Williamson of ESPN's NFL Nation reports that McFadden will start this week despite Jones-Drew' probable status. Williamson notes McFadden's increased practice time over the last few weeks as a contributing factor to the decision.
However, the Raiders offense has struggled so far this season and that includes McFadden. The running back is averaging just 3.3 yards per carry on 34 rushing attempts this season, his seventh. This is the same average he posted in each of the last two seasons. McFadden has totaled just 111 rushing yards and one touchdown so far this year. A former first-round pick, McFadden has failed to live up to expectations during his time in Oakland due to injuries and poor play.
The Miami Dolphins are allowing 4.0 yards per carry so far this season. Whichever back can be more effective will most likely earn the starting job in Oakland's week five game against the San Diego Chargers.
Jones-Drew is in his first season with the Raiders after spending the first eight years of his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Despite the starting nod for McFadden and improved health for Jones-Drew, both backs should be avoided in fantasy. While they are worth rostering, there are just too many question marks that plague each player to be consistent starting options. Health concerns and poor surrounding offensive talent are major roadblocks on the way to quality fantasy output. Try and find alternative options if you can.
