Dexter McCluster

With running back Jamaal Charles out of the lineup, the Kansas City Chiefs will split the running back work in Sunday’s game against the Chargers between Dexter McCluster, Thomas Jones and perhaps Le’Ron McClain and even little-used Jackie Battle.

The amount of plays for each player might revolve around McCluster and how much work he can get. McCluster has more big-play ability than any of the others. But he’s only 170 pounds, and the Chiefs are sensitive to wearing him out so early in the season.

"We have a set number of plays, and I think the type of plays he’s running has something to do with it also," Chiefs offensive coordinator Bill Muir said. "We kind of have a number in our mind."

That goes out the window if the Chiefs are somehow able to keep Sunday’s game close.

"We’ll do whatever we’ve got to do to win the game," Muir said.

There are no such limitations on Jones, who is bigger than McCluster but 33 years old.

"Wherever he’s been, he’s loved to carry the ball," Muir said. "We understand his age. No, we don’t have a plan. We’ll (give him the ball) until his tongue is hanging out."

We don't think anyone wants to see Thomas Jones get that much work. For now, he's the best bet in standard leagues while McCluster (who may have wide receiver eligibility at some sites) is the superior choice in PPR leagues. McClain and Battle have nothing to offer fantasy owners at the moment.