Justin Jackson Fantasy

Los Angeles Chargers running back Justin Jackson is embroiled in a battle with Austin Ekeler to see who could be the starter if star running back Melvin Gordon's holdout continues into the regular season, but neither looked particularly good in the team's second preseason game on Sunday. Jackson averaged 4.1 yards per carry in the game, but over half of his 33 yards came on a single 17-yard carry. Jackson isn't a bad running back, but it's likely that the two will share the load since both have struggled as the lead back in their limited opportunities. Obviously, Jackson's value crashes dramatically if Gordon comes back, though there are currently no indications that he's close to returning.

Aug. 19th • 12:00 PM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Justin Jackson took over for starter Austin Ekeler against the Cardinals on Thursday night and hauled in one of the team's two rushing touchdowns on the night. Jackson saw a bit of use last season as a third-stringer who got a surprise start when injuries cost both Melvin Gordon and Ekeler a game, but outside of a couple big runs, he wasn't regularly effective. Thursday was some of the same with an eight-yard run punctuated by 14 more yards on four more attempts. It's not clear yet if Jackson can be a sustainable rusher in the league, but if Gordon's holdout continues into the regular season, which seems likely, he may get his chance.

Aug. 9th • 9:59 PM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Justin Jackson made a few heads turn last season when the seventh-rounder got tasked with being the lead back against the Chiefs in a critical December matchup on the road. He played solidly, and suddenly, he was an outside candidate for a handful of touches because the two guys in front of him, Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler, have both dealt with a host of injuries. Now that Gordon is holding out, Jackson's looking more and more like he might see some significant usage this season. Part of his appeal is his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield as well, a popular type of play for the Chargers, and he's showing off that skill in training camp. His future depends heavily on Gordon's decisions for now, but he could become a surprise breakout this year if the right things fall into place.

Aug. 1st • 8:48 PM