James Starks Is a Decent Fantasy Addition But Don’t Get Carried Away

With most leagues heading into the playoffs this week, we didn’t do our typical weekly fantasy waiver wire column; those of you who have made the postseason probably have a good idea of what you’re doing. Still, that doesn’t mean we can’t provide some valuable fantasy advice when it comes up. Enter James Starks.

Brandon Jackson owners know quite well that Starks led the Packers in carries Sunday against the 49ers. The rookie 6th round pick from Buffalo made his season debut racking up 73 yards on 18 carries. John Kuhn was next on the team with six carries while quarterback Aaron Rodgers ran it four times and running back Brandon Jackson also had four carries. Though several backs got into the act, Starks clearly separated himself in terms of workload.

Though Starks seems promising, I have my reservations about his potential productivity. Green Bay has become a pass-heavy team putting the ball in the hand of Aaron Rodgers for the most part. They have a dome game in Detroit this weekend meaning they’ll probably throw it plenty. After Detroit, it’s at New England and then home against the Bears and Giants to finish up the year — both good teams against the run. Maybe the Packers haven’t been good running the ball because they haven’t had a good running back, but I just don’t see this team suddenly giving Starks 20 carries a game leading to 100 yards. Additionally, Jackson is a good pass catcher out of the backfield and will still be a big part of the offense.

Starks may get 15 carries a game the rest of the way, but without rushing touchdowns he won’t be too valuable. He’s a decent player to watch but don’t get carried away.