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As fantasy football managers finalize their lineups for Week 18, last-minute injury situations from around the league will shape their decisions and separate the winners from the losers.
The status of Elijah Mitchell has been a key talking point over the last few weeks. As soon as he became eligible to return from injured reserve, all eyes were on the backup running back's progress.
Is Elijah Mitchell playing in Week 18? Should I pick up and start Mitchell for the regular season finale? Below we take a quick look at the updated injury status for Mitchell while attempting to answer these questions.
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Is Elijah Mitchell Playing In Week 18?
Mitchell (knee) has been on injured reserve since early December due to an MCL sprain. It's worth noting that Mitchell has now suffered two separate MCL sprains since the start of the season, but his most recent injury was not quite as severe as the first one.
On Saturday, the 49ers officially activated Mitchell from injured reserve. He turned in a strong week of practice and showed that he is ready to return for San Francisco's regular-season finale. He will be active in Week 18 while operating as Christian McCaffrey's backup.
Should I Start Elijah Mitchell In Week 18?
While Mitchell will remain the No. 2 option behind McCaffrey (and also faces competition for touches from wide receivers and tight ends), the 24-year-old back still warrants consideration in fantasy football.
When Mitchell returned from IR earlier this season, he posted an impressive 18 carries for 89 yards in his first game back. Even with McCaffrey healthy, Mitchell earned a huge workload and put himself on the fantasy radar. However, he totaled 59 and 43 scrimmage yards over the next two weeks, respectively.
We don't know exactly what Mitchell's role will look like, but we do know that he is healthy and looks great. Thus, his knee does not represent an obstacle that could interfere with his fantasy production. Consider him a solid low-end RB3 who could put up significant fantasy points if San Francisco jumps out to an early lead and rests McCaffrey (among other starters).
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