When Will Josh Jacobs Return and Be Back? Fantasy Football Injury Update

It took some time for Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs to get going to begin the year. But when he did, he picked up right where he left off last season. From Week 4 to Week 12, Jacobs finished as a top-six fantasy running back four times during that span.

Unfortunately, though, most managers couldn't plug Jacobs into their lineup in the fantasy playoffs. The All-Pro back injured his quad in Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings and hasn't played since.

So, when will Jacobs return and be back? Will he return in Week 18? Let's dive in. 

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Josh Jacobs Injury Update

Jacobs injured his quad late in Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings. With the quick turnaround for a Thursday game against the Los Angeles Chargers, the 25-year-old running back was deemed questionable despite not practicing all week.

However, three weeks later Jacobs has still not made his return. He has also not practiced much since his injury, getting in just one limited practice over the past three weeks.

Entering Week 18 against the Denver Broncos, Jacobs started the week off not participating in practice on Wednesday. The running back will likely need to practice in some capacity this week to return for the final game of the season. Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce also said on Wednesday that Jacobs will be a "game-time decision" for Sunday.

Josh Jacobs Fantasy Football Outlook

Jacobs will "fight until the end" to play in Week 18, according to Pierce on Wednesday. That means the team and Jacobs will do all they can to get him back -- even in a meaningless game for the standings.

If Jacobs is active this weekend, he is a must-start in all formats in Week 18 championships and could be a solid option in daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests. The Broncos are giving up the second-most fantasy points per game to running backs this year, and the All-Pro back could take advantage of that.

If he can't go in Week 18, Zamir White is also a must-start in both types of leagues. In three games without Jacobs this season, White is averaging 19.7 carries and 95 rush yards. He also caught a solid five catches for 35 yards last week against the Indianapolis Colts.

Whoever starts for the Raiders' backfield this week is a great start in all formats. 

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