Should I Drop James Robinson in Fantasy Football?

Third-year running back James Robinson got out to a hot start this season, rushing for 230 yards and three touchdowns over his first three games. 

He gradually lost touches to second-year running back Travis Etienne Jr., and was eventually traded to the New York Jets following rookie Breece Hall’s season-ending injury.

Robinson has been a disappointment to fantasy managers so far during his time in New York.

What Has James Robinson Done This Season?

In three games with the Jets, Robinson has split the backfield with second-year running back Michael Carter. He has taken 25 carries for 75 yards on the ground and added two catches for five yards and a touchdown.

The Jets' offense has been largely inefficient and has opened a quarterback controversy between Zach Wilson and backup Mike White. Zach Wilson is not to blame for the offensive struggles, though!

What are the Pros and Cons of Rostering James Robinson?

Between an offense ranking 28th in yards per game, a split backfield, and Robinson’s own inefficiencies, it’s easy to see why his name could come up as a potential cut candidate in fantasy football if you have the depth at running back to afford to release him.

Most teams should not rely on starting him due to his low cost during draft season, allowing the flexibility to consider cutting him for a more appealing waiver wire option.

As is the case with most running backs in fantasy, Robinson is one injury away from being a bell-cow. If something were to happen to Michael Carter, Robinson would take a lion’s share of the carries out of the New York backfield.

Should I Drop James Robinson in Fantasy Football?

Robinson should be kept on all rosters. Although as a manager you have likely grown frustrated with him, his three games as a Jet have come against top-five defenses in terms of points allowed per game (Patriots twice, Bills once). Any fantasy manager shies away from matchups like those.

Easier days are ahead for the Jets’ offense, which tends to commit to the run game more than the passing game, starting with Chicago this week. 

At this point in the season, the schedule from Weeks 14-16 should be the most important factor when looking at a player. New York plays Detroit, Jacksonville, and Seattle over the course of the fantasy playoffs. Robinson is not only undroppable but could potentially be a league-winner with the most favorable running back schedule in the fantasy playoffs.

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