BALLER MOVE: Start in all leagues
POSITIONAL VALUE: High-end RB2 with low-end RB1 upside
ANALYSIS: James Cook produced just seven fantasy points in Week 16 on 20 touches. That came a week after putting up a career-high 36.1 fantasy points in Week 15 vs. the Cowboys. We know the upside is there.
Now, in Week 17, the Bills get a matchup with the Patriots. On paper, this looks like a good spot for Cook with Buffalo favored by 14 at home. However, if there's one area the Patriots are good this season it's against the run. Despite their 4-11 record, they've allowed the 5th-fewest rushing yards per game to opposing running backs.
Last week, for the first time this season, the Bills activated Leonard Fournette with Ty Johnson out. Lenny only got five carries, which was likely the result of a close game against the Chargers. But with a 14-point spread this week, the backups could get some more run in the second half.
This isn't to say sit James Cook. It's to simply temper expectations in what looks like a great spot for the second year back. And remember, Cook has just two rushing touchdowns all season. Consider him a top-15 back this week with upside to finish inside the top 10 in Week 17.
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