Green Bay Packers running back James Starks has been out since the first game of the preseason with turf toe, but is finally set to return now that Cedric Benson has suffered his own ailment. Benson went on Injured Reserve (with option to recall) leaving open the door for Starks to return and share carries with Alex Green. Starks equally shared carries with Ryan Grant last season and gained 578 carries with 4.3 yards per carry.
James Starks to debut, take share of carries and increase fantasy value
With Cedric Benson out due to injury, Starks finally gets set to debut in 2012. We break down the fantasy implications.
Chris Trotman - Getty Images
The Packers take on the Texans in Week 6, the ninth-ranked rush defense. Green, now in his second season, has 5.4 yards per carry for Green Bay.
Fantasy Take: It's a little too soon to expect much production from Starks and picking him up in fantasy should only come in really deep leagues or where you have extra bench spots to waste. The Packers are 27th in the NFL in rushing attempts and 20th in yards. Even if Aaron Rodgers is having a down year, the team isn't going to turn to James Starks.
When you add everything up together - the injury, the offense, the scheme, the sharing with Green - and you should not expect more than 50 yards a game from Starks. He could have a couple of games this year that will make you wish you had started him, but the evidence isn’t there to suggest that he’s going to break out. The Texans have not allowed a rushing touchdown this year.
For more fantasy info, check out the SB Nation Fantasy War Room 4-8:30pm ET Monday through Thursday and 8am to 1pm on Sunday. Check out SB Nation’s own Fantasy Football game, Pick 6!
