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UPDATE: Howard is OUT, per Pro Football Talk.
The Philadelphia Eagles could be straining for offensive skill player depth this week. And what a week to have to be dealing with that problem—the New England Patriots are coming to town for a Super Bowl rematch. Running back Jordan Howard is officially listed as questionable, and as of now, we really have no clear indication about whether or not he will play on Sunday.
Howard is recovering from a shoulder injury. The most concerning news we have about him so far is what head coach Doug Pederson said Friday morning. According to the coach, Howard had still not been cleared for contact at that point. That’s not looking good.
Another sign that does not bode well for Howard’s availability this week is the fact that the team brought back running back Jay Ajayi, signing him as a free agent on Friday. Though Ajayi is ostensibly there to replace Darren Sproles, who landed on injured reserve this week, things don’t look great for Howard being active.
Fantasy football analysis, Philadelphia Eagles RB Jordan Howard
We might not know about Howard’s status until Sunday, maybe even as late as 90 minutes before the team’s 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. Even if he does play, a lingering injury might limit his workload.
You should probably take a look at Miles Sanders. Philly’s offense needs the running game to work, so the backs typically get the touches. Howard did well against tough defenses like the Bears and Bills in recent weeks, so Sanders will definitely get his chances.
Sanders is also useful as a receiver, but Ajayi figures to get some work in that role as well. However, you can probably skip Ajayi in your lineups against New England.