Atlanta Falcons running back Steven Jackson is not expected to play Sunday for the team's showdown with the Carolina Panthers.
Steven Jackson injury update: veteran RB unlikely to play for Falcons, fantasy owners
The Falcons’ backfield will likely be without its usual starter for Sunday’s play-in game. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Despite the win-or-go-home implications of the matchup, Jackson is likely unable to overcome a strained quadricep, per beat reporter Vaughn McClure. Plenty of information supports that claim, as Jackson sat out the entire week of practice, and the Falcons brought up running back Jerome Smith from the practice squad.
Fantasy Spin: Fantasy owners will have a tough time finding a suitable RB2 replacement for Jackson, as the Falcons will likely go with a committee approach in the running game with Devonta Freeman and Jacquizz Rodgers. Both have a good matchup versus the leaky Panthers' front seven, but it's unclear if the volume will be there for either to make for a decent fantasy option. Freeman and Rodgers can be considered desperation flex plays.
