49ers look for backup to Carlos Hyde

Jul 26, 2016

Carlos Hyde is the undisputed catalyst to this season’s offense, which promises to be run-oriented. But what if Hyde’s durability issues resurface? The 49ers scrambled for replacements after Hyde broke his left foot last season, and some viable options surfaced.

Shaun Draughn emerged as a surprising find off his Cleveland couch last midseason, but he scored only one touchdown in 76 carries. If not Draughn, then 5-foot-8 DuJuan Harris might be the shifty, change-of-pace back to complement Hyde.

Kendall Gaskins (practice-squad call-up), Mike Davis (1.7 yards per carry as a rookie) and sixth-round draft pick Kelvin Taylor (5-foot-10) aren’t ready to lead a run-oriented attack. Oh, and Jarryd Hayne is out of country, and out of the sport, with no comeback in sight.

Fantasy Impact:

This writer felt Draughn would win the job behind Hyde. He is probably the most proven out of the group. This could be a key battle to watch for Hyde owners as Chip Kelly's fast-paced offense and Hyde's injury history means the team's RB2 will have some fantasy value.

today

Tank Dell carted off with knee injury following touchdown

Ian Rapoport

2 hours ago

Texans WR Tank Dell was carted off the field Saturday after a bad knee injury.

Fantasy Impact:

Dell had just scored a touchdown but the way he landed caused the injury. NBC isn’t even showing certain angles because of how bad the injury looks to be. Dell’s leg was immobilized. Dell’s rookie season was ended prematurely due to a broken leg. Very unfortunate news for the young wide receiver.

yesterday

Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill officially Questionable for Week 16

Tom Pelissero

yesterday · 4:44 PM EST

Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill (wrist/personal) was limited in practice today and is now questionable for Sunday vs. San Francisco.

WR Jaylen Waddle (knee) didn't practice all week and is doubtful.

Related Players: Jonnu Smith, Malik Washington, River Cracraft

Fantasy Impact:

We're assuming Hill will be fine by kickoff, but it's definitely a situation worth keeping an eye on. He's currently projected as a WR2, with Jonnu Smith possibly absorbing even more work with Waddle unlikely to see the field.

Rams TE Tyler Higbee set to make his season debut in Week 16

Tom Pelissero

yesterday · 4:42 PM EST

Rams TE Tyler Higbee (knee/illness) is off the injury report and set to make his season debut Sunday vs. the Jets.

Related Players: Colby Parkinson, Hunter Long, Davis Allen

Fantasy Impact:

This is awesome news for Higbee, who had a brutal injury last January but should see the field here in Week 16. This is a complete stay-away in typical fantasy leagues, but he's an interesting target in playoff-only formats, depending on whether or not you believe the Rams will be contenders.