Gus Edwards hasn't been putting up the gaudiest of stats over the past three weeks, but he sure has been efficient. The Ravens running back has totaled at least 50 rushing yards and averaged 7.3 yards per carry over that stretch, peaking with a 99-yard output in Week 16 against Atlanta.
Given that he's behind J.K. Dobbins on Baltimore's depth chart, Edwards isn't the sexiest add for the most crucial week of the fantasy season.
Action Network's fantasy football staff agrees with that sentiment, as there are other running back options they like off the waiver wire. Read on below for analysis on Edwards and others below.
Sean Koerner: Edwards was efficient on 11 rush attempts as he rushed for 99 yards on the ground in Week 16. However, it was a run-heavy game script against Atlanta and he is clearly behind J.K. Dobbins on the depth chart. I'd rather add Zack Moss, who is the clear lead back for the Colts right now.
Samantha Previte: Edwards had his best game since his season debut (Week 7) in the Ravens' win over the Falcons. He rushed 11 times for 99 yards and saw a nearly identical snap count as Dobbins, who was held to just 12 carries for 59 yards — his worst game since returning from injury.
This backfield has been a headache all season. For now, Edwards appears to be the hot hand, though both could end up quelled against the Steelers this week, whose defense ranks top six in rush DVOA.
Mike Triplett: There are four decent RB options widely available on this week’s waiver wire — Tyler Allgeier, James Cook, Chuba Hubbard and Edwards. Unfortunately, all four are stuck in timeshares. My top choices are the rookies Cook and Allgeier because of their upside and increased roles over the past month.
Cook had a career-high 99 rushing yards in Week 16 and scored his second TD in two weeks, though he still finished with fewer fantasy points than teammate Devin Singletary. Cook’s share of the offense has remained steady since his Week 13 breakout with 32, 24, 28 and 26 offensive snaps in the past four games.
Meanwhile, Allgeier just set career highs with 42 offensive snaps and 18 carries as he continues to take on a bigger share of his backfield split with Cordarrelle Patterson. This week, he should face a favorable game script against the Cardinals.
