Rex Burkhead injury status update 2:23 p.m.

The New England Patriots have downgraded Rex Burkhead to OUT for Monday Night Football. His absence means Sony Michel and James White will be the team’s primary running backs when they travel to face the New York Jets. Michel is a strong fantasy foobtall option in standard leagues, while White is a strong PPR option. Burkhead’s status moving forward remains a week-to-week issue.

The New England Patriots travel to face the New York Jets to wrap up Week 7, and they are hoping to finally have their full backfield in action. Rex Burkhead has missed the past two weeks with a foot injury, and is once again listed as questionable for Monday Night Football. Burkhead was a limited participant in practice all three days this week.

The Patriots played on Thursday Night Football last week, so they’ve had some time to get prepared for this game. Sony Michel led the team with 86 rushing yards (3.9 ypc) and added two receptions for 27 yards. James White had nine receptions for 46 yards.

Fantasy football analysis, RBs Sony Michel, James White, Rex Burkhead

If Burkhead sits, White is a strong PPR option on Monday. If Burkhead plays, White is still a solid play, but he loses some value. The same applies to Michel. Burkhead is a bit more of a pass catcher, but he fits in the middle between White and Michel.

The Jets rank right in the middle of the pack when it comes to defending running backs. They rank 16th for most fantasy points allowed against running backs. It will be interesting to see if Sam Darnold’s return to improve the offense helps keep the defense off the field a bit more and provide it some needed rest.

Start/Sit Recommendation

Sony Michel: All start
James White: PPR start
Rex Burkhead: Sit given the Monday kickoff