The NFL is heading into Week 6 with several teams on a bye, including the Chiefs, Rams, Dolphins, and Vikings. While these teams take a week off, the action on the field continues for the rest of the league.
In Week 5, James Conner showed once again why he is a key player for the Cardinals. Against the 49ers, Conner rushed for 86 yards on 19 carries and added 14 receiving yards. He played a crucial role in the Cardinals’ drive to set up the go-ahead field goal, running seven times for 36 yards. Rookie Trey Benson did not see any action in the game, while Emari Demercado’s involvement was minimal.
Moving on to the Falcons, running back Bijan Robinson had a stronger showing in Week 5 after a quieter Week 4. Robinson played more snaps than Tyler Allgeier and ran 28 routes in the Falcons’ win over the Buccaneers. Despite gaining 77 yards and three receptions, it was not a standout fantasy performance for Robinson. However, he outperformed Allgeier, who managed just 25 yards on nine opportunities. Robinson will face a favorable matchup against the Panthers in Week 6.
Fantasy managers who took a chance on Justice Hill in Week 5 were likely disappointed as he saw limited opportunities in the Ravens’ win over the Bengals. Hill’s role in the backfield remains secondary to Derrick Henry, who had a strong performance with 92 yards and a touchdown. Henry continues to be the most reliable back for the Ravens and should have a big game against the Commanders in Week 6.
In Buffalo, James Cook continues to be the lead back for the team, seeing the majority of the running back opportunities. Despite a lack of receiving work this season, Cook has found the end zone five times and had a solid game against the Texans in Week 5. While his receptions may be down, Cook remains a strong fantasy option based on his production on the ground.
Chuba Hubbard has been a standout performer for the Panthers with Andy Dalton at quarterback. Hubbard has thrived in Dalton’s starts, averaging over 23 fantasy points per game. He has a significant opportunity share in the offense and remains a must-start player, especially against the Falcons in Week 6.
D’Andre Swift has bounced back in the last two weeks, totaling over 280 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Despite his strong performance, Swift has had some touchdowns vultured by Roschon Johnson. Johnson has seen limited work in the passing game and is not as reliable as Swift. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on this situation moving forward.
Finally, an injury to Zack Moss in Week 5 puts his availability in doubt for Week 6. Chase Brown saw increased opportunities in Moss’ absence and could be a valuable fantasy asset if given more work in the passing game. Brown has shown promise as a receiver out of the backfield and could be a must-start if Moss is unable to play against the Giants.
As the season progresses, fantasy managers will need to pay close attention to these running back situations to make informed decisions for their teams.
