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Too many running backs have suffered injuries throughout the first two weeks of the season, leaving NFL teams and fantasy football managers to deal with uncertainty at the position.
One key running back injury to monitor is Saquon Barkley as he prepares for Thursday Night Football versus the San Francisco 49ers.
Is Saquon Barkley healthy or injured? Will Barkley play in Week 3? Should I pick up Matt Breida for fantasy football? Read on for answers to these burning questions.
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Is Saquon Barkley Healthy Or Injured?
Barkley suffered an apparent ankle injury during the final two minutes of Sunday's comeback win over the Arizona Cardinals. He was forced to exit the game and did not return, creating plenty of panic over his availability for Week 3.
Will Saquon Barkley Play In Week 3?
Barkley did not participate in practice on Monday or Tuesday, which doesn't bode well for his status heading into Thursday's game. Nevertheless, the Giants are leaving the door open for him to play.
Whereas initial reports forecasted a three-week absence for Barkley, head coach Brian Daboll has yet to rule out the possibility of him playing in Week 3. The star running back reportedly felt a lot better on Tuesday, which indicates he might be able to get back on the practice field Wednesday. If that happens, he could end up being labeled as "questionable" and a true game-time decision.
Should I Pick Up Matt Breida For Fantasy Football?
Ultimately, while there is still a scenario in which Barkley could play, it would be a surprise if he does end up being active. It's tough for any injured player to recover from an injury, let alone on a short week while dealing with an injury that reports claim should have sidelined him for two to three games.
If Barkley does sit out Thursday's contest and affords himself another 10 days of recovery before the Giants' next game, Matt Breida should operate as New York's top running back. The 28-year-old would get a chance to play in a revenge game against the 49ers, who employed him from 2017 through 2019. As fun as revenge games are, the 49ers have a relentless run defense, holding Najee Harris and Kyren Williams to a combined 95 rushing yards through the first few weeks.
It will be difficult for Breida to deliver key production on Thursday, especially if the 49ers take another early lead and force the Giants to pass a lot. He's a fine waiver-wire addition if you need depth or want to prevent your opponent from snatching him, but the chance of him leading your fantasy team to glory is slim. Breida is a low-end RB3 for the time being.
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