As we’ve seen over the past few years, lead backs in Kyle Shanahan’s zone run scheme have found immediate success and get so many positive looks. This has been particularly beneficial as the rotation at QB for the Niners has made the offense focus on its ground attack.
A guy who should get a great look in Week 15 should be Jeff Wilson Jr, who took over lead-back duties as Raheem Mostert was sent to the tent with a head injury in Week 14. In this role, Wilson had 11 carries for 31 yards and a score, plus a 13-yard reception. A fumble and a bad drop in the late stages of the game capped his performance at 9.4 points, but a full game at the helm of the San Fran backfield is well worth a Week 15 Waiver Wire claim and stash. Owned in only 14 percent of all ESPN leagues currently, he should be available and should be added on Wednesday when waivers clear.
Mostly used as a goal-line back this season, Wilson has had some monster games considering the clog in the backfield in San Fran. In games where he gathers more than 10 carries, he’s averaging 16.32 PPR points, and has five rushing scores in those games. Those numbers even include his Week 12 dud where he compiled just 40 yards and fumbled once.
With Mostert’s battling through ankle and head injuries, Wilson seems to be poised for the king’s share of snaps in Shanahan’s backfield. The head coach even put Wilson first in the pecking order.
“We’ve gotten all our backs back and we’ve been trying to go with Jeff Wilson and Raheem as our one-two,” Shanahan said. “That’s why Tevin hasn’t gotten in much either. Raheem and Jeff have kind of earned that, and they’ve been our top guys here, especially with Tevin not fully back.”
Mostert said himself he probably won’t be at full health on his ankle until the offseason, so even if his fortunes turn and plays a decent number of snaps in their upcoming tilt with Dallas, Wilson should still see a good deal of action. If you’re in need of a flex play for your semifinal matchup this week, look no further than the North Texas product, Jeff Wilson Jr.
The Wolf is slightly higher on Mostert, checking in at RB24 in his Rest of Season Rankings, while he’s significantly higher on Wilson (RB36) than the ECR (+7).
