When we broke down the Melvin Gordon injury, we obviously highlighted Austin Ekeler, but also undrafted rookie Justin Jackson. Jackson hailed from Northwestern and we went on to say, “he’s not a must-start this week, but he’s a very good stash option to wait and see how they’re going to utilize the former Wildcat workhorse. Jackson is currently available in 82-percent of leagues and should be added if you have extra bench space.” After not getting a first half carry against the Steelers, Jackson exploded for 63 yards on eight carries, highlighted by a sick 18-yard touchdown run that tied the game. If you need a legit RB stash for the playoffs, look no further than Jackson.
In the first half, Ekeler was the clear Gordon replacement. He had 13 carries and eight targets on 49 snaps. However, Jackson was much more efficient than Ekeler on only 14 snaps. From an outside point of view, Ekeler seems to be an ideal change-of-pace back with Gordon in the lineup, but has yet to perform in the two games without Gordon. If Gordon continues to sit out, it looks like they unearthed a gem in the undrafted Jackson, and he should be the one getting the early-down carries — not Ekeler. The rookie running back is available in 77 percent of leagues and needs to be rostered.
