Cleveland Browns running back Duke Johnson is listed as probable on the team's final injury report.
Duke Johnson injury update: rookie RB ready to go for Browns, fantasy owners
The Browns’ rookie running back is listed as probable for the team’s first game of the season. We break down the fantasy implications.
Johnson landed on the NFL's concussion protocol after seeing his first preseason action in the Browns' third exhibition game. Before that, he dealt with a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined during summer practices. Despite the missed time, Johnson appears poised to make his NFL debut when the Browns face the New York Jets on Sunday.
Fantasy Spin: Projecting how rookies fit in to their new offenses can be tricky business, especially when dealing with as many factors surrounding Johnson's situation. On one hand, he's missed lots of time throughout the summer, but on the other, the Browns don't have any healthy running backs outside of him and incumbent starter Isaiah Crowell.
In Week 1, there likely aren’t many fantasy owners who are desperate for options at running back, making Johnson a bench option for his NFL debut. With uncertainty regarding his usage, and with one of the NFL’s best front-sevens lining up across from him, fantasy owners ought to look elsewhere.
