The New York Giants’ group of running backs have already been hit by an abundance of injuries just three weeks into the 2016 NFL season. Shane Vereen has been lost for the year due to a torn triceps and Rashad Jennings is currently dealing with a thumb injury that could keep him out of Monday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings.
If Jennings is unable to play for New York this week, 24-year-old Orleans Darkwa is expected to start in his place.
Fantasy Impact: In his third season out of Tulane, Darkwa performed well in the Giants’ 29-27 loss to Washington last Sunday. The running back finished with 62 total yards and one touchdown on 11 touches against Washington.
No matter if Jennings plays this week or not, Darkwa will likely get more snaps on the field with Vereen no longer an option for the team. However, his increase in opportunities will come against a tough Vikings rush defense.
Minnesota has yet to allow an opposing running back to rush for a touchdown in their last seven regular season games and they are only allowing the position group to average 3.1 yards per carry this year. If fantasy owners had any thoughts of placing Darkwa in their lineups this week, it may be an idea that should be saved for another time.