Latest Updates
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| 4/29/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks on the way out
News: After the Packers selected both Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin in the NFL draft, the team has reportedly put running back James Starks on the trade block.
Analysis: Starks has had a slew of injuries over his career and has rarely been a productive member of the Packers' society. We suspect he'll end up getting cut. He shouldn't be a part of Fantasy rosters.
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| 1/24/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
Packers not high on Starks
News: The Green Bay Press-Gazette reports that Packers running back James Starks might not be a featured rusher in Green Bay any time soon. The report says that Starks, who was once seen as a possible go-to back, has the window closing for him to seize an every-down role. He turns 27 in February, and while the team doesn’t want to change the 6-foot-2 back’s running style, running back coach Alex Van Pelt admits he’s probably better suited for a change-of-pace role at this point.
Analysis: Starks has struggled to stay healthy the past two years, appearing in just 10 games this season and missing three more in 2011. He had just 71 carries for 255 yards and one touchdown in 2012 and caught four passes for 31 yards. The Packers need to upgrade at running back, but Starks will still have a role. He's only worth drafting with a late-round pick in deep leagues.
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| 1/15/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks focused on improving body
News: James Starks didn't play again after hurting his knee on Dec. 2, and now the Packers running back tells the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel he intends to focus on getting in tip-top shape this offseason. Starks says he's considering working out in Bradenton, Fla., at IMG Academy this offseason. "I feel like I might be in better shape if I go down there. They can give me pointers of what I'm trying to work on," said Starks. "I want to make sure when I come back, I am injury free, I just want to stay healthy. I want to come back to camp ready. And hopefully the coaches will see that -- I'm ready."
Analysis: Starks has battled hamstring, ankle, toe and knee issues in the pros after a major shoulder injury limited his college career. Until he finds himself in a situation where he's leading the way for a team's ground game, Fantasy owners shouldn't draft him just because they recognize his name. Expect the Packers backfield to be tough to figure out heading into training camp.
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| 1/12/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks gets back
News: Packers running back James Starks was active and in uniform Saturday for the Division round of the playoffs at San Francisco, after being out since Dec. 2 with a knee injury. It is not clear how much of a role Starks will play, despite his return.
Analysis: Starks got back to practice last week, but did not play in the team’s first playoff game. He will likely get back in the mix against the 49ers, but Fantasy owners will want to avoid him in most Playoff Challenge leagues this week.
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| 1/10/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks could return vs. SF
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers running back James Starks should return for the Division round of the playoffs at San Francisco. The report says that despite the emergence of DuJuan Harris, who has moved into the lead back role, there is still a place for Starks if he can show that he's completely recovered from a knee bruise suffered Dec. 2. Starks was the back who came onto the scene in the playoffs two years ago and played an integral part of the team's run to a Super Bowl XLV title. Whether he's ready to join Harris in a shared role won't be known until practice tape is evaluated at the end of this week. "I think there's a lot of things that go into that, special teams, even scout team reps, how he looked," running backs coach Alex Van Pelt said. "There's a lot that goes into the evaluation every week. We'll see how it goes. He looked good today."
Analysis: Starks began his journey back into the mix last week when he took a lot of snaps on the scout team helping the defense prepare for Adrian Peterson. His knee passed that test and he has gradually been added into some real action this week. Coach Mike McCarthy would not say what the plan would be with Starks if he was deemed ready to play. Even if he does return to action, we would not recommend him in most Playoff Challenge leagues.
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| 1/5/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks inactive vs. Vikings
News: Packers running back James Starks was ruled inactive for Saturday's Wild Card game vs. Minnesota as he continues to deal with a knee injury. Starks, who was a limited participant in practice all week, has not played since Dec. 2 against Minnesota.
Analysis: Starks only played six games during the regular season, and was not expected to carry the load, especially since DuJuan Harris led Green Bay in rushing (70 yards) last week. Fantasy owners should seek healthier alternatives for all Playoff Challenge leagues moving forward.
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| 1/4/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks listed as questionable
News: The Packers listed running back Alex Green as probable for Saturday's game vs. Minnesota along with rusher James Starks as questionable. Green's knee has kept him on the injury report but he's practiced in full all week. Starks hasn't played in weeks after suffering what is believed to be a bone bruise in his knee and was limited all week.
Analysis: DuJuan Harris led Green Bay in rushing (70 yards) last week, so there's a chance neither guy will pick up a lot of work on Saturday. Both are risks not only this weekend in playoff Fantasy leagues but in 2013 Fantasy drafts as well.
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| 1/2/2013 |
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![James Starks]() |
No snaps for Starks in practice
News: Packers running back James Starks was among those in uniform during Wednesday's practice, but did not take any snaps with the offense, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. Starks was listed as a limited participant in practice with a nagging knee injury. He has not played since Week 13. The Packers will face the Vikings at home in the NFL Wild Card round.
Analysis: Starks only played six games during the regular season, but could be ready to go during the playoffs. He'll obviously need to be more involved in practice before playing Saturday against the Vikings, so we'll keep an eye on his status moving forward. He has low-end Fantasy value in all Playoff Challenge leagues, if healthy.
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| 12/30/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks inactive again for Packers
News: Packers running back James Starks was listed among the inactives for the fourth straight game in Week 17 against the Vikings. He has been out due to a knee injury.
Analysis: Starks has played just six games this season due to injury but could return for the playoffs. Owners that play in those formats should keep an eye on his status going forward. Starks has proven in the past to be a viable option in Fantasy but plan on keeping him reserved in deeper formats once again for Week 17.
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| 12/28/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks not returning for Week 17
News: Packers running back James Starks has been ruled out for Week 17 against the Vikings. It will be the fourth straight game he's missed due to a knee injury.
Analysis: Starks has played just six games this season due to injury but could return for the playoffs. Owners that play in those formats should keep an eye on his status going forward. Starks has proven in the past to be a viable option in Fantasy but plan on keeping him reserved in deeper formats once again for Week 17.
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| 12/23/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks inactive as expected
News: Packers running back James Starks was inactive for a third straight game with a knee injury Week 16 against the Titans. Coach Mike McCarthy has more or less ruled him out until the playoffs.
Analysis: Before getting hurt, Starks was emerging as the Packers' most effective rusher, but now he's a lost cause for Fantasy owners. With Alex Green (concussion) also sidelined, DuJuan Harris and Ryan Grant will carry the load for the Packers. Given the favorable matchup, they're worth a look in Fantasy if you need help at running back.
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| 12/20/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks out until playoffs
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy said Thursday he remains hopeful running back James Starks, who has missed the last two games with a knee injury, will be back for the playoffs. Starks isn't expected to return Week 16 and will likely sit out Week 17 as well.
Analysis: When Starks was first injured in Week 13, there were reports he was headed for IR, but that didn't happen. The Packers have remained hopeful he would return at some point, but that didn't necessarily mean the regular season. For Fantasy purposes, Starks' season is over, so there is no need to hold onto him in any format.
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| 12/16/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks' season still in jeopardy
News: Green Bay running back James Starks was among the team's inactives for Week 15 at Chicago as he continues to be bothered by a knee injury. Starks, who suffered the injury during Week 13, has now missed two games and will likely miss the rest of the regular season. Alex Green and DuJuan Harris are expected to carry the workload out of the backfield for the Packers.
Analysis: Injuries have taken a serious toll on Starks this season as he has been limited to only six games. He was starting to heat up after the constant issues and posted 4.4 yards per carry in his past two games prior to the knee injury. Fantasy owners shouldn't rely on him to make a worthwhile contribution for the remainder of the season.
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| 12/9/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks officially inactive for Week 14
News: Packers running back James Starks was officially ruled inactive for Sunday's contest at home against the Lions in Week 14 as he continues to deal with a knee injury. Starks suffered the injury in Week 13 against the Vikings and has been ruled out "multiple weeks," according to coach Mike McCarthy earlier in the week.
Analysis: Starks had his first rushing touchdown of the season in Week 13, so this is a tough break for owners counting on his production during Fantasy playoffs. It was rumored Starks would be placed on injured reserve, but that hasn't happened yet, so we'll keep an eye on his status in the coming days. His absence probably means more touches for Alex Green and potentially Ryan Grant towards the final stretch of the season. He has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
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| 12/5/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks out multiple weeks
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy said running back James Starks will be out "multiple weeks" with a knee injury. McCarthy said Starks believed he had just a bruise, but the team wanted him to get his knee further evaluated. The doctors didn't like what they saw and the injury turned out to be more serious than thought. The Packers signed Ryan Grant Wednesday with Starks sidelined.
Analysis: What a tough break for Starks, who had his first rushing touchdown of the season Week 13. It was rumored Starks would be placed on injured reserve, but that hasn't happened. His absence probably means more touches for Alex Green. McCarthy said Grant is expected to play Week 14 vs. Detroit, but the practice week will dictate how much work he gets. Since Starks was in a timeshare situation with Green, feel free to drop him in Fantasy if you need the roster spot. He has low-end Fantasy appeal when healthy.
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| 12/5/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Report: Starks could land on IR
News: According to ESPN, Packers running back James Starks suffered a knee injury in Green Bay's win over the Vikings last week and could be placed on the season-ending injured reserve list. Starks briefly left the Packers 23-14 victory over the division rival in the fourth quarter after taking a hit directly on his right knee. However, he was able to return and finish out the contest with 66 yards rushing on 15 carries and a score.
Analysis: Starks has been plagued by injuries throughout his short career in the league and it looks like another one may cut his season short yet again. Fantasy owners will have to keep a close eye on his status moving forward, but it appears he will be out for at least Week 14 against the Lions, if not the season. That means Alex Green would shoulder the load in the running game, so owners looking for help heading into the postseason should scoop him up if available. Starks has rushed for 255 yards and one touchdown on 71 carries this season and can be considered a viable low-end option in most formats when healthy.
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| 12/2/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks finally breaks through for TD
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy split the rushing load between Alex Green and James Starks Week 13 vs. Minnesota, but it was an effective game plan during a 23-14 win. Green started the game, but Starks ended up with a team-high 66 rushing yards on 15 carries and his first touchdown of the season. Starks gave Green Bay a 20-14 lead with a 22-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter. Green wasn't far behind with 58 rushing yards on 12 carries. Starks added two catches for 16 yards, while Green had one catch for 12 yards. "Our running game was part of our success offensively," McCarthy said, per the Green Bay Press-Gazette. "The plan was to run ball coming into game."
Analysis: Starks was having a pretty lackluster day before breaking off that 22-yard touchdown run. He had just six carries for 18 yards prior to the touchdown run. He ran much more effectively after recording the touchdown and finished off the win for Green Bay. The last few weeks McCarthy has been splitting carries between Green and Starks, so we imagine that will be his game plan moving forward. That's unfortunate for Fantasy owners. Leave Starks for deep Fantasy formats heading into Week 14 vs. Detroit.
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| 11/29/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Packers trying for balance in run game
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy said prior to his team's Week 12 loss against the Giants he is looking for balance in the run game between Alex Green and James Starks. Although the Packers didn't get a ton of chances to run the football in a blowout loss, McCarthy accomplished his goal. Starks finished with 35 yards on eight carries and Green added 30 yards on 10 carries. It's a trend likely to continue heading into Week 13 vs. Minnesota. "At times (Sunday), we ran it pretty well," offensive coordinator Tom Clements said, per the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "I thought Alex Green ran well. Unfortunately, we had some gains nullified by holding penalties, which were kind of thin calls, really. That impacted it a little bit. And we obviously fell behind by a large margin. You don't want to abandon the run entirely, but it's hard to really focus on it when you're behind as much as we were."
Analysis: The Packers had some stability in the run game at the beginning of the season when Cedric Benson was the workhorse back. Unfortunately, Benson has been sidelined since getting hurt Week 5 and his return is looking bleak, so the Packers are likely to rely on Starks and Green down the stretch. Both running backs were given an opportunity to emerge as the feature back, but both struggled with that chance. Green is averaging just 3.1 yards per carry and Starks is at 3.4 yards per carry. Sadly, neither of the backs have a touchdown this season. It seems the ideal situation would be for Starks to be the lead back and Green to play on passing downs, but right now it's a timeshare situation. Neither player is particularly reliable in Fantasy, so they are just desperation starts Week 13. Running backs average 15.1 Fantasy points and 81.8 rushing yards per week against Minnesota. After not recording a touchdown against Minnesota in its first five games, running backs have now scored seven times (six rushing) against the Vikings in the last six games.
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| 11/26/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks can't get going vs. G-Men
News: Packers running back James Starks failed to get it going against the Giants in Week 12. Starks, who took the start over Alex Green for the second straight week, rushed for 35 yards on eight carries in a 38-10 defeat. His running mate, Green finished with a team-high 10 carries for 30 yards on the night. Starks received a target but failed to come down with a catch.
Analysis: Starks was named the starter since Week 11 but has not been able to do much in his role. He has rushed for 109 yards on 33 carries over the last two games. That said, it seems as if Green re-emerged and has shared some snaps with Starks on Sunday, so we'll continue to monitor their role in the running game moving forward. He'll try to get back on track at home against Minnesota. The Vikings have allowed 111.6 yards per game on the ground this season, which is ranked 14th in the league against the run. Fantasy owners should view Starks as a low-end option in deeper formats heading into Week 13 against the Vikings.
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| 11/22/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks looking for first TD
News: Packers running back James Starks will be looking to get in the end zone for the first time this season against the Giants on the road in Week 12. Starks, who made his first start over Alex Green in Week 11, rushed for 74 yards on 25 carries against the Lions his last time out. He'll face a New York defense that 113.8 yards per game on the ground.
Analysis: Starks has seen an increase in his workload in the last two weeks and has rushed for 135 yards on 42 carries over that span. He has shown little in the way of big-play ability at this point in the season, despite receiving the most carries on the team over the last two weeks. With the Packers a primarily pass-first offense, Starks may have a hard time getting into a rhythm in the running attack. New York is allowing just 13.0 Fantasy points per game this season, the sixth-lowest mark in the league. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as more of a low-end option in deeper formats heading into Week 12.
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| 11/18/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks clearly top option
News: Packers running back James Starks was the featured back for the first time Sunday against the Lions in Week 11, receiving 25 carries to pace the team. Starks rushed for just 74 yards in the game, an average of 2.9 yards per carry, but he was the only player on the team to attempt more than two rushes. Backup Alex Green ended with zero carries. Starks added one catch for 6 yards, while being targeted just the one time in the passing game. The Packers went on to win the game, 24-20.
Analysis: Starks has shown little in the way of big-play ability at this point in the season, despite receiving the most carries on the team over the last two weeks. He has 135 yards on 41 carries over the last two weeks, an average of just 3.3 yards per carry. The Packers seem to like his ability to run in the single-back offense, however, so he should continue to see carries moving forward. He may have trouble getting going yet again in Week 12, as the Packers get set to take on the Giants. New York is allowing just 13.0 Fantasy points per game this season, the sixth-lowest mark in the league. Continue to consider Starks more of a low-end Fantasy starter while he has the job.
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| 11/15/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks back in top spot
News: Packers running back James Starks earned a surprise start in Week 9 against the Cardinals, and now it looks that is his role to lose moving forward. “I think (Starks) has earned it,” Alex Van Pelt, the Packers’ running backs coach, told the Green bay Press Gazette. “I think he was productive when he was in there the last couple of games with limited touches, and he has the most experience of the backs we have right now. I think he’s earned the right to get in there and get some more touches.”Starks rushed for 61 yards on 17 carries in Week 9, and should be the team’s top option in the running game for Week 11 against the Lions.
Analysis: Starks faced the Lions once last season but saw little of the field, rushing four times for 19 yards. He should have a bigger role this Sunday, though there is a chance the Packers may be forced to abandon the running game pretty early on. The Lions have been strong against the run this season, allowing just 13.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. They have been the 10th-stingiest defense against running backs, and with the game looking like a potential shoot out, Starks should be considered more of a low-end starting Fantasy option.
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| 11/4/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks a surprising starter Week 9
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy said early in the week he intended to get running back James Starks more reps on offense heading into Week 9 vs. Arizona and he stayed true to his word. Starks not only started Sunday's game, but he had a team-high 17 carries and 61 rushing yards. Alex Green, who has been starting since Cedric Benson went down with a toe injury Week 5, finished with 53 rushing yards on 11 carries. "I was pleased with the rushing effort today," coach Mike McCarthy said, per ESPN. "We went two tandem backs with James Starks and Alex Green and played them more by situation just to try to make sure we were able to get those guys prepared during the week for today’s game."
Analysis: It was kind of interesting to see Starks not only start but lead the team in rushing. McCarthy said this week he was pleased with how well Green has played since Benson's injury and the team needed to do a better job of getting him on track. Well, it apparently McCarthy had a different plan in mind all along. Both running backs did well Sunday, so we imagine it could be a tandem situation moving forward until Benson returns. The Packers on a bye until Week 11 at Detroit. Starks will be just a low-end Fantasy option.
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| 10/29/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks could see more reps
News: Although Packers running back Alex Green is averaging just 2.4 yards per carry in three starts since replacing the injured Cedric Benson (foot), coach Mike McCarthy backed Green as the starting running back Monday. Although, he hinted James Starks could see some more in-game reps moving forward. "Frankly, Alex Green has earned this opportunity to carry the football. I've liked what I've seen in his limited time," McCarthy said. "It was not Alex Green's best game yesterday. Starks will probably be given more opportunities. Starks' reps comes down to availability and he missed practice Thursday due to sickness. That didn't help him. When I put Starks in game (Week 8 vs. Jacksonville) and then took him back out, it was more reaction to situational plays he wasn't familiar with."
Analysis: Starks' season got off to a bad start because of a toe injury. Had he been healthy, then maybe he would have been given the first chance to replace Benson, but unfortunately he is now pulling backup duty to Green. Starks has touched the football in just two games this season, but he did get some reps in the second half Sunday after Green wasn't doing all that well. Apparently McCarthy isn't ready to pull the plug yet on Green, but you have to wonder if the team might make some changes to the running game during the bye in Week 10 if Green struggles again Week 9 against the Cardinals. Starks remains more of a Fantasy reserve in deeper formats heading into Week 9. Running backs average average 109.4 rushing yards and 14 Fantasy points per week against the Cardinals. Running backs have managed four rushing touchdowns in the last five games against Arizona.
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| 10/28/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks gets rare touches on offense
News: Packers running back James Starks had one carry for 8 yards and one catch for 9 yards Week 8 vs. Jacksonville. It was only the second time this season Starks received touches on offense.
Analysis: Starks received some playing time in the second half Sunday after starter Alex Green had another disappointing day on the ground. Green hasn't posted great numbers in three starts since replacing Cedric Benson (foot), so you have to wonder if the Packers are now ready to work Starks into the mix. Starks is still a Fantasy reserve in deep formats heading into Week 9 vs. Arizona, but if anything changes, then we will let you know.
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| 10/28/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks active Week 8
News: Packers running back James Starks (illness) is active Week 8 vs. Jacksonville. He was probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Starks has touched the ball in just one game this season. He was hobbled by a toe injury early in the season, which kept him out of the running back rotation. The Packers are now leaning on Alex Green as the primary running back with Cedric Benson (foot) sidelined. Starks is not a recommended Fantasy option Week 8 and is just a reserve in the deepest of formats.
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| 10/25/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks sits with illness
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy said running back James Starks was held out of practice Thursday because of an illness, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Green Bay hosts Jacksonville Week 8.
Analysis: Starks has touched the ball in just one game this season. He was hobbled by a toe injury early in the season, which kept him out of the running back rotation. The Packers are now leaning on Alex Green as the primary running back with Cedric Benson (foot) sidelined. Starks is not a recommended Fantasy option Week 8 and is just a reserve in the deepest of formats.
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| 10/21/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks goes missing in Week 7
News: Packers running back James Starks was active for the second straight game after missing the previous five with turf toe, but he didn't see the field Week 7 at St. Louis. He watched from the sidelines as Alex Green ran 20 times for 35 yards.
Analysis: Apparently, Starks is still getting back into game shape after such a long layoff. He gained only 11 yards on five carries last week at Houston, so perhaps the Packers decided they had nothing to gain by rushing him back out there. Still, he's missing a golden opportunity to contribute with Cedric Benson sidelined by a foot injury. The Packers have a favorable matchup Week 8 against the Jaguars, but you wouldn't want to start Starks.
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| 10/18/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks biding time on bench
News: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports Packers running backs coach Alex Van Pelt said he feels confident running back James Starks can handle everything physically since recovering from his early-season turf toe injury, but getting in-game reps still depends on whether or not he can shake the rust after a long layoff. Starks has been mostly running the opponents' offensive system for the defense as part of the scout team during practice. "He has to stay positive and stay focused and be ready at any time," Van Pelt said. "Those guys didn't think they were going to carries when Cedric (Benson) came in, all of a sudden (Alex Green) got 20. So you've got to be ready, be focused and when your time comes have effective runs."
Analysis: Had Starks been healthy at the outset of the season, then he might now be the feature back with Benson sidelined. Unfortunately, that role has gone to Green, but Starks is just another injury away from seeing significant playing time. Starks did get five carries Week 6 at Houston, but he managed just 11 yards. Starks doesn't figure to do much more Week 7 at St. Louis. The Rams rank a modest 13th against the run, allowing 100.8 yards per game. The Packers lean too much on the pass for their backup running back to make a worthwhile contribution, especially when he's still working his way back into game shape. Starks is a low-end handcuff option at best.
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| 10/17/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Not much expected of Starks
News: Packers running back James Starks, who missed the team's first five games with a toe injury, had only five carries for 11 yards in his season debut Week 6 at Houston, and with coach Mike McCarthy confirming since then that Alex Green will remain the team's lead back for now, Starks doesn't figure to do much more Week 7 at St. Louis. The Rams rank a modest 13th against the run, allowing 100.8 yards per game.
Analysis: Even at full health, Starks wouldn't be a big contributor in Fantasy. He was practically useless in a fairly prominent role last season, and clearly now he's just a backup. The Packers lean too much on the pass for their backup running back to make a worthwhile contribution, especially when he's still working his way back into game shape. Starks is a low-end handcuff option at best.
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| 10/15/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks not much of a factor in debut
News: Packers running back James Starks did not make much of an impact during his season debut against the Texans in Week 6. After Cedric Benson going down with an injury, Starks was listed as the backup running back, taking the backseat to Alex Green on Sunday. Starks took his first handoff of the game with under six minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and finished with five carries for 11 yards rushing in a 42-24 victory.
Analysis: Starks has been hobbled by a toe injury all season long and made his season debut on Sunday. The Packers will gradually work him back in the offense, so it isn't surprising that he only appeared once the game seemed to be out of hand. Starks averaged over four yards per carry last year with Green Bay and could make an impact as the season progresses, especially since Cedric Benson is out for a significant portion of the season. He'll have a tough test next week in St. Louis, as the Rams held the Dolphins to just 17 yards rushing in Week 6. Starks has potential and could be worth a flier in deeper Fantasy formats once he's more involved, but for now, Fantasy owners should view him as just a low-end option in the deepest formats.
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| 10/10/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks behind Green Week 6
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy laid out his intentions Wednesday of dealing with the loss of running back Cedric Benson, who is out at least eight weeks because of a foot injury. McCarthy said he will ride the hot hand, but Alex Green is expected to get the first crack because he is further ahead of James Starks, who has been hobbled by a toe injury. Brandon Saine will also be in the mix.
Analysis: You can't be surprised by this news seeing how Starks has yet to touch the ball in 2012. It might be hard for the Packers to lean on him in his first game with significant action. However, if he starts to outperform Green, then it seems McCarthy will stick with him. Starks is worth adding in deeper Fantasy formats. Remember, he averaging 4.3 yards per carry in 2011 for Green Bay and has potential. It's just that he is nothing more than a desperation Fantasy play Week 6. The Texans are yielding just 80.6 rushing yards and 11.8 Fantasy points per week to running backs.
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| 10/8/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks finally to get touches?
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy wasted no time ruling out running back Cedric Benson for Week 6 at Houston, as he made the announcement at his Monday press conference. Benson hurt his left foot Week 5 at Indianapolis and was in a walking boot Monday. McCarthy added Alex Green will see more chances Week 6, along with James Starks and Brandon Saine.
Analysis: Starks has yet to touch the ball this season because he has been hobbled by a toe injury. However, it seems he will have to be ready come Week 6 now that Benson is hurt. Unless Starks has a good week of practice, then he might be eased back into action. He is still worth a flier in deeper Fantasy formats, but track his progress during the week before putting him in active lineups Week 6. Don't forget the Texans have a pretty good defense, so it will be a tough challenge for the Packers' run game.
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| 9/30/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks still missing for Packers
News: Despite being considered as probable on Friday's injury report, Packers running back James Starks was listed among the inactives for Week 4 against the Saints. He has yet to play this season due to a toe injury.
Analysis: Starks is expected to backup Cedric Benson, when healthy, but first he will need to return to the field. He was able to practice leading up to Sunday and should be able to return for Week 5 against the Colts. Owners in deeper Fantasy formats should continue to keep Starks stashed away at this point.
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| 9/28/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks probable for Week 4
News: Packers running back James Starks was a full participant in practice for the third straight day Friday and is being considered as probable for Week 4 against the Saints. Starks missed the first two games of the season due to a toe injury. New Orleans ranks last in the league in run defense and has allowed an average of 32 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: Starks is expected to backup Cedric Benson for the Packers going forward but could see more carries towards the goal line. While the Saints have allowed a league-worst 215 yards per game on the ground thus far, plan on leaving Starks reserved in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 4.
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| 9/26/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks practices in full
News: For the first time this season, Packers running back James Starks was a full participant in practice Wednesday, as the team gears up for a Sunday meeting with the Saints. Starks has been out all season so far with a toe injury, and was only able to return to practice on a limited basis last week. New Orleans ranks last in the league in run defense, giving up 215 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 32 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: Starks lost his starting job to Cedric Benson as a result of this injury, so he definitely has some work to do to earn it back. Benson has averaged just 3.1 yards per carry on the season, so there may be an opening for Starks to earn some playing time, but Fantasy owners will need to be convinced that he is going to contribute before relying on him, even if he is fully healthy for Week 4 against New Orleans.
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| 9/24/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks still inactive for Packers
News: Green Bay running back James Starks (toe) was inactive for the Week 3 Monday night game at Seattle. Starks was expected to miss the game as he continues to deal with a toe injury. Starks hopes to return Week 4 against New Orleans.
Analysis: When he does make his return, Starks is expected to compete for carries with Cedric Benson once healthy but after Benson's performance a week ago (20 carries, 81 yards) it looks as though his role will be minimal upon returning. Starks isn't a recommended Fantasy option for Week 3 as he's not playing in the Monday night game.
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| 9/22/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks officially questionable
News: Green Bay running back James Starks (toe) was officially listed as questionable on the injury report for the Week 3 Monday night game at Seattle. Starks has continued to be limited in practice and missed the first two games of the season due to the injury. Seattle ranks second in the league in run defense, giving up just 46 yards per game, and have held opposing running backs to an average of eight Fantasy points.
Analysis: Starks continues to be a question mark heading into the Monday night game in Seattle. When he does make his return, Starks is expected to compete for carries with Cedric Benson once healthy but after Benson's performance a week ago (20 carries, 81 yards) it looks as though his role will be minimal upon returning. Starks isn't a recommended Fantasy option for Week 3, healthy or not.
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| 9/21/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks limited in practice again
News: Packers running back James Starks was limited in practice for the second straight day on Friday as he prepared for Week 3 against the Seahawks. Starks has missed the first two games this season due to a toe injury. Seattle ranks second in the league in run defense, giving up just 46 yards per game, and have held opposing running backs to an average of eight Fantasy points.
Analysis: Starks is expected to compete for carries with Cedric Benson once healthy but after Benson's performance a week ago (20 carries, 81 yards) it looks as though his role will be minimal upon returning. Keep an eye on his status in the coming days to see if he will be able to play against Seattle but either way, plan on leaving the 26-year-old reserved in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 3.
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| 9/18/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks should practice this week
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy said during his Tuesday press conference he expects running back James Starks, who has missed the first two games with a toe injury, to practice this week. McCarthy added his role when healthy is still to be determined. The Packers are at Seattle in Week 3. “Everybody on our football team has a role,” McCarthy said, per the Green Bay Press-Gazette. “It’ll be good to get him back out there, but turf toe is an injury, I don’t think you just jump up out of bed one day and you’re OK. There will be some transition time for him to come back. As far as his role, that’s really determined during the week. Our running back position is probably as competitive as its ever been since I’ve been here. I feel really good about that group, top to bottom.”
Analysis: Starks will be competing with Cedric Benson for carries once he is healthy. If Starks is back Week 3, he probably won't see a full workload. The Packers will likely ease him back into the mix. Starks remains more of a Fantasy reserve until we see how Green Bay intends to work him into the running back rotation.
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| 9/13/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks sits out again
News: As expected, Packers running back James Starks was not uniform for Thursday’s game against the Bears, as he continues to deal with a toe injury. He is expected back for Week 3.
Analysis: The Packers have a long layoff before Week 3 as a result of this shortened week, so there seems to be a good chance that he will be able to suit up. Starks is going to have to earn his way back into the starting lineup, and should be stashed in deeper Fantasy formats while he heals.
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| 9/12/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks might return Week 3
News: As expected, Packers running back James Starks (toe) is listed as doubtful for Week 2 against the Bears. Starks was limited in practice Wednesday, but coach Mike McCarthy isn't expecting him to play until Week 3 at the earliest. “James Starks was excellent news this morning,” McCarthy said, per the Green Bay Post-Gazette. “I was glad James was able to practice today and had a chance to watch him practice. That was something I wasn’t expecting. He’s making progress and looked good out there today. We’ll see how he feels (Thursday). He’ll probably be part of the plan next week. I don’t know. We’ll see how he is (Thursday). Something unforeseen happens that’s probably the only chance he’d have to play in the game (Thursday) night.”
Analysis: The Packers run game was pretty bad Week 1 behind Cedric Benson, so if he struggles again Week 2, then Starks could be looking at a big role out of the backfield once he returns. It's worth stashing Starks in deeper Fantasy formats, but don't activate him for Week 2. Even if he somehow plays, he might be limited and there are much better Fantasy options to start Week 2.
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| 9/11/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Coach considers Starks 'doubtful'
News: Packers running back James Starks, who sat out Week 1 with a toe injury, did not practice Tuesday. Afterward, coach Mike McMarthy called him "doubtful" for Thursday's game against the Bears, according to the Green Bay Post-Gazette.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should not prepare to activate Starks for Week 2. It seems he will sit out another week, which means Cedric Benson will be the lead back for the Packers. Continue to stash Starks in deeper Fantasy formats.
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| 9/10/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks still not practicing
News: Packers running back James Starks was listed on Monday's injury report as not practicing due to a toe injury. Green Bay did not practice but all NFL teams are still required to submit three days of injury reports. Starks missed Week 1 against the 49ers due to the issue.
Analysis: Starks' playing time took a hit when the Packers added Cedric Benson in the offseason and this injury will also not help his Fantasy value. No word yet on when he is expected to get back on the field so keep an eye on his status going forward. While he is worth stashing in deeper formats as a handcuff option, Starks should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues if unable to return for Week 2 against the Bears.
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| 9/9/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks officially ruled inactive
News: Packers running back James Starks was officially ruled in active for Week 1 against the 49ers. He was ruled out earlier in the week due to a toe injury.
Analysis: Starks' playing time took a hit when the Packers added Cedric Benson in the offseason and this injury will also not help his Fantasy value. No word yet on when he is expected to get back on the field so keep an eye on his status going forward. While he is worth stashing in deeper formats as a handcuff option, Starks should be reserved in all Fantasy leagues for Week 1.
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| 9/5/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks ruled out for Week 1
News: Green Bay running back James Starks (toe) was ruled out for the Week 1 game against San Francisco Wednesday, reports NFL.com. Starks was not expected to be ready for the season opener.
Analysis: Starks' Fantasy value has sunk like an anvil in Lake Michigan and he's routinely going unpicked in drafts. He's out for Week 1 and we're not sure when he'll get back on the field for the Packers. He may never get back to Fantasy respectability this season. Keep him off rosters until it's clear he's in a position to contribute again.
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| 8/31/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks remains on Packers roster
News: The Packers' cuts on Friday did not include running back James Starks, who remains sidelined with a turf toe injury. He's expected to back up Cedric Benson once he gets healthy this season.
Analysis: Starks' Fantasy value has sunk like an anvil in Lake Michigan and he's routinely going unpicked in drafts. Keep him off rosters until it's clear he's in a position to contribute again.
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| 8/28/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks making 'slow' progress
News: Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy said Tuesday that running back James Starks (toe) is not healing as quickly as hoped and is unlikely to be ready for the start of the regular season, The Journal Sentinel reports. Starks has been sidelined since the Packers' preseason opener with a lingering turf toe injury. "James Starks, just talking to the medical staff, is coming along slow," McCarthy said. "So we’ll just continue to treat him. He hasn’t made a whole of progress here of late." Starks was already ruled out for Green Bay's preseason finale on Thursday.
Analysis: With Starks sidelined, the Packers were forced to look elsewhere for options in the backfield and signed veteran Cedric Benson, who has already made a solid impression in the preseason. In addition, Alex Green continues to work back into the rotation and sending Starks tumbling down the depth chart. Starks recorded just one touchdown last season and could lose goal-line carries to Benson -- that is, if he's healthy. There is the chance the 26-year-old could be cut before the season starts and is considered a low-end Fantasy option in the late rounds of drafts.
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| 8/23/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks on the chopping block?!
News: In a story projecting the Packers' final 53-man roster, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel speculates running back James Starks will get cut. Starks is currently dealing with a turf toe injury so serious that the team signed Cedric Benson earlier this month. Per the paper, Cedric Benson would headline a running back corps that would also include Alex Green, Brandon Saine and fullback John Kuhn.
Analysis: The Packers could go in a couple of different directions with Starks: They could keep him benched until he's healthy enough to play or they could put him on injured reserve and just not think about him until 2013. Or they could cut him and try to bring him back once his toe heals. Regardless, expectations for Starks have sunk. Don't take him unless it's with a late pick in drafts since his future is certainly up in the air.
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| 8/22/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks on outside looking in?
News: Packers running back James Starks, who has missed significant time with a turf toe injury during training camp, is not currently projected to make the team's roster this season, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. The report indicates that the Packers seem ready to hand the reins to Cedric Benson as the team’s lead running back, and with Starks’ injury history (as well as his present issues), he is not certain to make a roster that might carry just three traditional running backs.
Analysis: Starks was expected to be the team's No. 1 running back this season, but he has simply been unable to get healthy, and given his past issues, this news does not come as a complete surprise. It looks like Benson is the favorite to take most of the team's carries either way, so at this point, Starks' value does not look very strong. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy running back, but with plenty of risk heading into Draft Day.
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| 8/17/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Toe issue keeps Starks sidelined
News: As expected, Green Bay running back James Starks did not play in Thursday's preseason contest against Cleveland as he continues to be hampered by a turf toe injury. Packers coach Mike McCarthy said earlier this week that Starks is considered "week to week" with the issue.
Analysis: With Green Bay adding veteran running back Cedric Benson to its backfield, Starks will have to work past the injury quickly if he hopes to salvage playing time for the start of the regular season. The 26-year-old has reportedly struggled during the early phases of training camp, a year after appearing in 13 games for the Packers. Starks' hold on the starting job could become tenuous and he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy running back worthy of a selection in the late rounds of most drafts at this point.
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| 8/13/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks still dealing with turf toe
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy told reporters that running back James Starks is being considered "week to week" as he continues to battle turf toe. Starks rushed for 16 yards on five carries during Green Bay's preseason opener against the Chargers and is listed as questionable for the Packers' next preseason game Thursday against the Browns.
Analysis: Starks has not been having a good camp as he been struggling with his assignments in practice and seems to have regressed as a receiver. It was thought he would really need to impress in camp in order to maintain the stronghold on his starting spot in the Packers' backfield and now he could face stiff competition from newly signed back Cedric Benson as well as Alex Green. The fact that he is now dealing with turf toe isn't helping his case, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how things play out over the next few weeks. As long as Starks is able to remain the starter, he can be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB.
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| 8/8/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks still struggling
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers running back James Starks continues to struggle in training camp and "really needs to show up in the (preseason) games." The report says he's struggled in practice and has regressed as a receiver, which isn't good for a passing team. On Thursday against the Chargers, Starks "needs to establish himself as the starter."
Analysis: Green, if healthy, could overtake Starks as the No. 1 running back in Green Bay, and this is a bad sign for a player with a great opportunity in front of him. Continue to monitor what happens with Starks, and hopefully he does well against the Chargers in the first preseason game. We still consider Starks a No. 3 Fantasy running back going into the year, but he needs to prove he can be counted on -- by Fantasy owners and the Packers.
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| 8/3/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks unimpressive so far
News: Just days after another reporter for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel gave some props to James Starks, long-time Packers beat reporter Bob McGinn for the same paper suggested running back James Starks has not improved since last season. While getting triple the reps of backup Alex Green, Starks is still struggling in pass protection and hasn't gotten better running the ball. He's improved on his drops but otherwise "just doesn't carry himself like a reliable, top-flight player," according to McGinn.
Analysis: This is a pretty serious criticism of Starks as he's been in the driver's seat to remain the Packers' starter all offseason long. Green Bay doesn't run the ball a ton to begin with but we're looking at Starks potentially losing some of his already-limited reps to Green in the future. Don't reach for Starks on Draft Day, instead settle for him in Round 7 or even Round 8 as a potential No. 3 rusher. If Green can put the finishing touches on his recovery from a torn ACL, we think he might be the guy the Packers lean on.
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| 7/31/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Report: Starks most impressive of Packers RBs
News: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says James Starks has been the most impressive running back thus far in camp for the Packers, but added "that's not saying a whole lot." Starks has shown some flashes and still managed to score on one play where he went off tackle and got hit by Jarrett Bush. Starks is the team's likely starter and is competing for playing time with the likes of Alex Green and Brandon Saine.
Analysis: Starks never had more than 13 carries in any single game last year and had one touchdown in Week 1. It's unlikely that Starks will be a 20-touch kind of runner for the Packers but he could find enough touches from week to week to register as a No. 3 Fantasy running back. Don't reach for Starks on Draft Day, but if he falls to you in the right spot (say Round 7 or 8) he could be a great value pick.
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| 7/18/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Packers counting on Starks
News: ESPN.com reports that Packers running back coach Alex Van Pelt expects a good season from James Starks this year. “I see a powerful, slashing runner that he can do some great things. Obviously he’s done it, he’s proven it,” Van Pelt said. “(He’s an) explosive guy, powerful guy … (We’ve) just got to keep him healthy. That’s the difference. He’s got to play 16 games this year. Got to. We’ve got to get him through it. I know he’s put in the work now with the weights and the offseason program. He’s done a nice job there. That’s the first part. Then going in with the mentality of, ‘I’m not going to miss a game. If I have to play nicked, I’m going to do it.’ Having that toughness to go out there and be there every week for your team.” Starks said he’s spent the offseason “stretching a little more at night and trying to get my endurance up so the legs don’t get as tired.”
Analysis: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel believes backup Alex Green could overtake Starks for the starting job once he proves he's back to normal following a torn ACL and can do a good job in pass protection. That could impact Starks down the line, but for now he is being undervalued on Draft Day since most owners will remember the rusher who had little production for most of 2011 and lost rushing touchdowns to fullback John Kuhn and quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Still, Starks should get the majority of carries for the Packers, and he might be a great pick as a No. 3 rusher with a mid-round pick. Don't reach for Starks on Draft Day, but if he falls to you in the right spot he could be a great value pick.
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| 7/6/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Make or break year for Starks?
News: James Starks is accepting of his role in the Packers offense, though he wishes he could get more work. He never had more than 13 carries in any single game last year. If the Packers decide to run him more -- and offensive coordinator Tom Clements said he's "hopeful" for Starks to be a factor for 16 games -- Starks says he's ready. "I feel like I do every year, and that's to have a breakout year," Starks said. "That's everybody's dream, but you never know what God has in store for you. I approach every year the same. I just work hard, pray on it, and hope that everything will eventually go right, go smooth. I've been here for a while now, so I'm getting comfortable. Eventually it will come."
Analysis: It's pretty clear that the Packers prefer to throw rather than run, and when they do run it's been done by more than just a running back as quarterback Aaron Rodgers and fullback John Kuhn have been involved (both had more touchdowns than Starks' one score last season). Until he plays better to the point that the Packers commit to giving him the football, Starks is no better than a No. 3 Fantasy RB worth a pick starting in Round 7. If he slips in drafts, he's obviously a low-risk, medium-reward type of player.
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| 6/27/2012 |
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Starks must fight through injuries
News: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel claims that James Starks said he's faster than he's ever been after putting his weight at 218 pounds and obtaining just seven percent body fat. Packers head coach Mike McCarthy agrees that Starks looks great but has to prove he can stay healthy in order to make a consistent impact in the Green Bay offense. "He had a breakout playoff run (in 2010)," McCarthy said in a Q&A. "Some guys just hit that injury phase in their careers and just have to work themselves out of it. Starks has some of that. He's had some tough challenges just getting hurt."
Analysis: Starks has taken first-team reps in camp and should open the season as Green Bay's primary rusher, a job he had last season when he totaled 578 yards on 133 carries with one touchdown. At no point last season did Starks have more than 13 carries in a game or total more than 18 touches. Until he plays better to the point that the Packers commit to giving him the football, Starks is no better than a No. 3 Fantasy RB worth a pick starting in Round 7.
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| 6/13/2012 |
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McCarthy counting on Starks
News: ESPN.com reports that the Packers have committed to James Starks as their primary running back. Ryan Grant is a free agent and not expected back. Tuesday, Starks took the first-team repetitions while second-year back Alex Green continued his recovery from knee surgery. Starks has a long injury history, but coach Mike McCarthy is clearly prepared to take that risk. McCarthy: "He's a young raw guy that needs to play. If he can stay healthy, I think he'll make a significant jump as a player."
Analysis: Starks is likely going to be undervalued on Draft Day since most owners will remember the rusher who had little production for most of 2011 and lost rushing touchdowns to fullback John Kuhn and quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Still, Starks should get the majority of carries for the Packers, and he might be a great pick as a No. 3 rusher with a mid-round pick. Don't reach for Starks on Draft Day, but if he falls to you in the right spot he could be a great value pick.
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| 2/2/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks sets sights on improvement
News: Packers RB James Starks told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he intends to work harder this offseason to be a better running back. Starks saw limited reps in 2011 -- he didn't have more than 13 carries in any single game -- but still led the team in rushing yards with 578 rushing yards (19 more than Ryan Grant). Grant might not be back in Green Bay in 2012, opening the door for Starks to potentially be an every-down back. "If that's how it happens, I'll be ready," Starks said. "But whatever happens, happens. I have no problem with what was going on this year, so I'd be fine with whatever. I'm a team player. Whatever's going to help the team, I'm all for it. ... I just have to do better with my carries. Doesn't really matter how many you get. Just have to do more with your opportunities."
Analysis: Starks has the right attitude, but if he's ever going to be big in Fantasy then he'll need to be in a position where he gets a lot of work every week -- and does something with it. After Week 1, he didn't score a single touchdown in 2011 and had two games with over 100 total yards. He also got banged up toward the end of the year and has a long injury history that dates back to college. Assuming the Packers add help at running back this offseason, Starks won't be any better than a high-end reserve rusher for Fantasy purposes. He simply is not that great of a back.
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| 1/15/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks totals 67 yards vs. Giants
News: After missing three of the last four games of the regular season due to knee and ankle injury, Packers RB James Starks returned for Sunday's NFC Divisional Playoff contest against the Giants. He gained 43 yards on six carries and caught four passes for 24 yards in the 37-20 loss. He had a long run of 29 and averaged 7.2 yards per carry. Starks finished second on Green Bay in rushing behind QB Aaron Rodgers (66 yards) in the defeat.
Analysis: Starks led the Packers in rushing during the regular season and was their feature back for much of the season. While injuries slowed him down a bit, the fact that he continued to split carries with Ryan Grant hurt his value in Fantasy. Still, he saw most of the touches around the goal line and at age 25, he still has some decent upside going forward. The Packers love to throw the ball so he likely will not rush for 1,000 yards anytime soon but because he plays for a high-scoring offense, Starks still holds value in Fantasy. Target him as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy RB on Draft Day in 2012.
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| 1/15/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks ready for Giants
News: Packers RB James Starks is active for Sunday's NFC Divisional Playoff game at home against the Giants. Starks practiced in full all week and says he's ready to play against the Giants. Starks has been sidelined for three of the Packers' last four games with issues related to his knee and ankle. He'll take on a Giants run defense that hasn't allowed a touchdown to a running back in six straight games.
Analysis: Starks had 315 rush yards and a touchdown in four playoff games last season and was a decent contributor to their Super Bowl run. In 2011 Starks scored once (in Week 1) and had between 60 and 90 rush yards in five games. We'd be shocked if he was a huge reason for the Packers' success in the playoffs but if you're looking for a good No. 2 Fantasy rusher in Playoff Fantasy formats, he's it.
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| 1/13/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks ready to roll
News: Packers RB James Starks practiced in full all week and says he's ready to play vs. the Giants in the Divisional Playoffs. Starks has been sidelined for three of the Packers' last four games with issues related to his knee and ankle. He'll take on a Giants run defense that hasn't allowed a touchdown to a running back in six straight games.
Analysis: Starks had 315 rush yards and a touchdown in four playoff games last season and was a decent contributor to their Super Bowl run. In 2011 Starks scored once (in Week 1) and had between 60 and 90 rush yards in five games. We'd be shocked if he was a huge reason for the Packers' success in the playoffs but if you're looking for a good No. 2 Fantasy rusher in Playoff Fantasy formats, he's it.
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| 1/11/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks practices in full
News: Packers RB James Starks practiced in full on Wednesday and says he's ready to play vs. the Giants in the Divisional Playoffs. Starks has been sidelined for three of the Packers' last four games with issues related to his knee and ankle. He'll take on a Giants run defense that hasn't allowed a touchdown to a running back in six straight games.
Analysis: Starks had 315 rush yards and a touchdown in four playoff games last season and was a decent contributor to their Super Bowl run. In 2011 Starks scored once (in Week 1) and had between 60 and 90 rush yards in five games. We'd be shocked if he was a huge reason for the Packers' success in the playoffs but if you're looking for a good No. 2 Fantasy rusher in Playoff Fantasy formats, he's it.
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| 1/4/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks not at practice
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers RB James Starks (knee/ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Starks was out for the Week 17 game against Detroit, and he is hopeful to return in the divisional round following Green Bay's bye week.
Analysis: We should know more on Starks' status when Green Bay returns from its bye, and he will likely try to play in the divisional round. When healthy, Starks is a No. 3 Fantasy RB in the majority of leagues, and he will continue to split time with Ryan Grant. Starks is not worth using in most Fantasy Playoff Challenge formats, and he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB heading into 2012.
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| 1/1/2012 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks inactive as expected
News: Green Bay RB James Starks is listed as inactive for Week 17 against Detroit with a knee and ankle injury. Starks was already ruled out for Sunday's game after not being able to practice last week. RB Ryan Grant will start in his place for the Packers.
Analysis: With the Packers already securing home-field advantage in the upcoming playoffs, Starks was unlikely to play most of Sunday's game. While the ankle injury is a recent setback, Starks has been dealing with the knee issue for several weeks. Green Bay is hoping he can be fully healthy for the start of the postseason. Fantasy owners should consider healthier options, including Grant, over Starks in Week 17.
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| 12/30/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks won't play Week 17
News: Green Bay RB James Starks was ruled out for Week 17 against Detroit after struggling to overcome injuries to his knee and ankle. Starks did not practice throughout the past week and will be replaced in the starting lineup by RB Ryan Grant for Sunday's game. It's the third game he will miss in the past four weeks.
Analysis: With the Packers already securing home-field advantage in the upcoming playoffs, Starks was unlikely to play most of Sunday's game. While the ankle injury is a recent setback, Starks has been dealing with the knee issue for several weeks. Green Bay is hoping he can be fully healthy for the start of the postseason. Fantasy owners should consider healthier options, including Grant, over Starks in Week 17.
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| 12/29/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks remains sidelined
News: Green Bay RB James Starks was unable to practice again Thursday while the team prepares for Week 17 against Detroit as he remains limited by knee and ankle injuries. Starks, who also missed Wednesday's session, sustained an ankle injury in the Packers' last game. He returned from a two-game absence in Week 16 and finished with six caries for 13 yards. If he's unable to play, Green Bay RB Ryan Grant would get the start.
Analysis: While the ankle injury is a recent setback, Starks has been dealing with the knee issue for several weeks. The 25-year-old has not managed more than six carries in each of his past three outings as Grant has performed better in the second half of the season. If Starks is able to play Sunday, he will be looking to reach the end zone for the first time since Week 1. The Lions are also permitting an average of 15.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. Fantasy owners should consider healthier options over Starks in Week 17.
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| 12/28/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks sits out Wed. practice
News: Green Bay RB James Starks, who injured his ankle in the Week 16 win over the Bears, could not practice on Wednesday, as expected. Starks, who is also dealing with a lingering knee issue, was expected to miss Wednesday's practice. He's going to attempt to get healthy again before the regular-season finale in Week 17 against the Lions. If Starks can't go, Ryan Grant should see all the work at tailback.
Analysis: Starks returned from knee and ankle injuries for the first time in three weeks for Sunday night game, but was injured once again. Keep an eye on his status moving forward, as it’s possible his regular season is finished. Grant would be a solid start in all Fantasy formats for Week 17 should that be the case.
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| 12/26/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks injures ankle Week 16
News: Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy announced at Monday’s press conference that the only injury from Sunday night’s win over the Bears was to RB James Starks. Starks injured his right ankle in the game. McCarthy said it wasn’t the same ankle injury Starks suffered before, and the second-year back will be “challenged” to practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Starks returned from knee and ankle injuries for the first time in three weeks for Sunday night game, but was injured once again. Keep an eye on his status moving forward, as it’s possible his regular season is finished. Ryan Grant would be a solid start in all Fantasy formats for Week 17 should that be the case.
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| 12/25/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks leaves Week 16
News: Packers RB James Starks had 13 yards rushing and one reception for 6 yards before leaving Week 16’s game against the Bears with an ankle injury. His return is questionable, and with the Packers up 28-10 at the time he left, it would seem likely that he will not return.
Analysis: Starks returned from knee and ankle injuries for the first time in three weeks for the game, but it appears as if he aggravated the injury. Keep an eye on his status moving forward, as it’s possible his regular season is finished. Starks returned from knee and ankle injuries for the first time in three weeks for the game, but it appears as if he aggravated the injury. Keep an eye on his status moving forward, as it’s possible his regular season is finished.
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| 12/25/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks plays in Week 16
News: Green Bay RB James Starks was active as expected for Week 16, after overcoming an ankle and knee injury. He was a full participant in practice all week and was listed as probable for the game against the Bears.
Analysis: Starks has missed the Packers' past two games with the ankle injury, but will make his return in time for the Packers' second-to-last game. He will likely share carries with RB Ryan Grant, who fared well in his absence. Starks registered just five rushing yards on 11 carries during the teams' first meeting this season and could be limited as he returns to full speed. The Bears are also permitting an average of 15.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this season. If you were waiting until today to make your decision, feel free to get Starks back into the lineup if you need him for Week 16.
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| 12/23/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks considered probable
News: Green Bay RB James Starks is listed as probable for Week 16 against Chicago after overcoming a knee and ankle injury. Starks was a full participant in practice throughout the past week and is expected to be ready for for Sunday's game. “I was running around limping all the time, just trying to push through it, but at the same time I was hurting the team, I think," Starks told the team's official website. "The little rest helped me a lot."
Analysis: Starks has missed the Packers' past two games with the ankle injury, but appears poised to return to the starting lineup. He will likely share carries with RB Ryan Grant, who fared well in his absence. Starks registered just five rushing yards on 11 carries during the teams' first meeting this season and could be limited as he returns to full speed. The Bears are also permitting an average of 15.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this season. Consider Starks a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option for Week 16.
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| 12/22/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks practices in full again
News: Packers RB James Starks (knee, ankle) went through a full practice Thursday for a second straight day as the team prepares for Week 16 against the Bears.
Analysis: It appears more and more likely Starks will return to action Week 16. However, he is still expected to split time in the backfield with Ryan Grant. The Bears have a good run defense, so even if Starks returns, he is at best a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option.
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| 12/21/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks practices Wednesday
News: Packers RB James Starks, who has missed the last two games with an ankle injury, practiced Wednesday. He practiced in full, increasing his chances of returning Week 16 against the Bears.
Analysis: Starks returned to practice Friday, but was still ruled inactive Week 15. The fact he is already practicing Wednesday is a good sign. Now, Starks just has to avoid a setback. The Bears have a good run defense, so even if Starks returns, he is at best a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option.
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| 12/18/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks inactive for Week 15
News: Green Bay RB James Starks (knee, ankle) missed the Week 15 game at Kansas City. Starks was a game-time decision for Sunday and the Packers ruled him inactive for the contest.
Analysis: The Packers are also without Brandon Saine for the Week 15 game at the Chiefs. The team will roll with Ryan Grant and John Kuhn and both are expected to contribute with Kuhn possibly seeing a touchdown and Grant getting the bulk of the carries. Starks should remain reserved for at least one more week. He could return Week 16 against the Bears.
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| 12/16/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks a game-time decision
News: Packers RB James Starks (knee, ankle) returned to practice Friday and was then listed as questionable for Week 15 against the Chiefs. Coach Mike McCarthy said Starks is in a similar situation to the way he was leading up to Week 12 against the Lions after spraining his ankle. He had four carries in that game. "It's looking pretty good right now but I'll keep waiting," Starks told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. " ... I need to go out there and show them that I can cut, show them that I can break tackles and do all the things, checkdowns, runs, all the things the running back has to do."
Analysis: It's a very interesting twist for Starks, who appeared on track to miss a second straight game after his ankle didn't test well earlier in the week. But with Brandon Saine also questionable, the Packers need some depth at RB with Ryan Grant seeming to be the only true RB healthy. Even if Starks plays, remember he hasn't finished the last two games he has played because of ankle issues, so Starks would remain a risky Fantasy option. Grant is still the better Packers RB to start in Fantasy.
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| 12/15/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks doesn't practice Thursday
News: Packers RB James Starks, who missed Week 14 due to an ankle injury, did not return to practice Thursday, hurting his chances of playing Week 15 against the Chiefs. Coach Mike McCarthy said that Starks worked out hard on Tuesday but his medical tests were not very positive.
Analysis: The Packers are banged up right now. Their top RB is hurt and their top WR -- Greg Jennings -- is also out with an injury. However, the team still has enough talent to beat the Chiefs, which is why we expect Starks to sit out another game. If his status improves, then we will let you know. As of now, plan to use healthier alternatives in Week 15.
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| 12/14/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks unable to practice Wednesday
News: Packers RB James Starks did not participate in practice on Wednesday as he continues to recover from an ankle injury, which caused him to sit out last Sunday. Coach Mike McCarthy said that Starks worked out hard on Tuesday but his medical tests were not very positive. Green Bay takes on the Chiefs in Week 15.
Analysis: Starks suffered the injury in Week 13 and was unable to practice all of last week so owners should definitely keep an eye on his status moving forward. Ryan Grant had a solid performance in his place last Sunday and would get the start again if Starks is unable to return against the Chiefs. He will like have to practice in some capacity if he were to play in Week 15 and Starks should be considered a viable option in the majority of Fantasy leagues, when healthy.
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| 12/11/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks inactive as expected
News: Packers RB James Starks was listed among the inactives for Week 14 against the Raiders. He was ruled out earlier in the week after suffering an ankle injury last Sunday. Ryan Grant and Brandon Saine replaced Starks' presence in the lineup.
Analysis: Starks has been troubled by ankle and knee injuries for the last few weeks so the Packers gave him a rest on Sunday. While he has rushed for 565 yards thus far, he has just one score, which came all the way back in Week 1. He can be a viable option in most Fantasy leagues when he has a good matchup so stash Starks away for Week 14.
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| 12/9/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks ruled out for Week 14
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy ended all suspicion on Friday by ruling out RB James Starks, who injured his ankle Week 13 against the Giants, for Week 14 against the Raiders. Ryan Grant and Brandon Saine will replace Starks' presence in the lineup.
Analysis: This move doesn't surprise us. The Packers need to give Starks a rest since he can't seem to shake his ankle problems. Starks was going to be at best an injury-risk No. 3 Fantasy RB, so now you can plan to start healthier alternatives.
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| 12/8/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks doesn't return to practice
News: Packers RB James Starks (knee, ankle) was unable to return to practice Thursday, missing a second straight day and reducing his chances of playing Week 14 against the Raiders. Coach Mike McCarthy said Starks won't play Sunday if he doesn't practice Friday. If he does somehow suit up, then Starks will face a defense that ranks 28th in the league against the run, giving up over 141 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 19.7 Fantasy points per week to running backs.
Analysis: We are not encouraged about Starks' potential to play now that he has missed another practice. The Packers were hoping he would practice by Wednesday, but that didn't happen. Now, he sat out a second day his chances of playing Sunday are dwindling. It's not like the Packers would need Starks to beat the Raiders, especially having one of the best passing offenses in the NFL. Even with the favorable matchup, Starks would be at best an injury-risk No. 3 Fantasy RB. Look to healthier alternatives Week 14.
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| 12/7/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks a DNP on Wednesday
News: Packers RB James Starks (ankle) was unable to practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 14 against the Raiders. Oakland ranks 28th in the league in run defense, giving up over 141 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 19.7 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: The Packers were hopeful that Starks would practice Wednesday, but it didn't happen. The team said it would make a determination about his status later in the week, so we will have to see if he practices Thursday and Friday. Starks hasn't been able to get past his ankle problems the last few weeks, so it wouldn't surprise us if the team finally sat him for a game. Even if he plays against the Raiders, Starks would probably be a risky No. 3 Fantasy RB.
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| 12/5/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
GB holding off on Starks decision
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy said Monday that RB James Starks, who sprained his ankle Week 13 at N.Y. Giants, will be challenged to practice Wednesday. McCarthy said he will make a determination about Starks' status for Week 14 against the Raiders later in the week.
Analysis: Starks has been hobbled by ankle problems since first getting hurt Week 11 against the Bucs. You would think the team would be wise to sit him down for a game since he hasn't finished the last two games. But Green Bay will play him if he is healthy enough to go. Starks has hurt Fantasy owners the last two weeks, so even if he plays against the Raiders, he would probably be a risky No. 3 Fantasy RB.
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| 12/4/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks' day cut short
News: Packers RB James Starks left Week 13 against the Giants after suffering an ankle injury. Starks sustained the injury in the second quarter and was carted back to the locker room. He did not return in the 38-35 win and finished with just 5 yards on three carries prior to leaving the contest.
Analysis: Starks apparently sustained another ankle injury on Sunday, but the team did not offer much of an update on his status after the game. Fantasy owners should continue to keep an eye on his status moving forward to see if he will be able to play in Week 14 against the Raiders. Starks can be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB, if healthy enough to play against Oakland.
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| 12/4/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks' day cut short
News: Packers RB James Starks left Week 13 against the Giants after suffering an ankle injury. Starks sustained the injury in the second quarter and was carted back to the locker room. He finished with just 5 yards on three carries prior to leaving the contest and did not return.
Analysis: Starks has been dealing with an ankle injury for a few weeks now, but it remains unclear whether or not he re-aggravated his previous injury or sustained a new one. Fantasy owners should check back after the game for an update on his status. Hopefully, this is nothing major and Starks can get back on the field in Week 14 against the Raiders. Stay tuned.
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| 12/4/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks leaves with ankle injury
News: Packers RB James Starks left Week 13 against the Giants with an ankle injury. Starks appeared to sustain the injury in the second quarter and was taken back to the locker room to get re-tapped. His return is questionable.
Analysis: Starks appears to have re-aggravated his previous ankle injury and is currently being looked at in the locker room. While his return is questionable, it would not be surprising to see Green Bay err on the side of caution with the 25-year-old. Starks had just 5 yards on three carries prior to leaving the contest. Stay tuned for the latest details.
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| 12/4/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks officially ruled active
News: As expected, Packers RB James Starks has been ruled active for Week 13 against the Giants. Starks, who has been dealing with a knee and ankle injury, was able to practice in full on Friday. The Giants enter Sunday's contest allowing an average of 19.6 Fantasy points to opposing RBs on the season, which is sixth-highest in the NFL.
Analysis: Starks was actually hurt in Week 11 and suffered a setback during the game Week 12 against Detroit. However, he was able to get some extra rest last week and will be on the field Sunday against the Giants. While the Packers are more of a passing team, Starks should see his normal 10-15 touches. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB against New York.
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| 12/2/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks probable for Week 13
News: Packers RB James Starks (knee, ankle) practiced in full on Friday and was then listed as probable for Week 13 at N.Y. Giants. Starks, who has been dealing with a knee and ankle injury, is now expected to face a defense allowing RBs to average 19.6 Fantasy points per week, which is sixth-highest in the NFL.
Analysis: Starks was actually hurt in Week 11 and suffered a setback during the game Week 12 against Detroit. However, he played after a short turnaround and now will have 10 days to rest before the Packers play on Sunday. Owners should keep an eye on his status just to be on the safe side. As long as he suits up. Starks can be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB against the Giants.
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| 12/1/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks practices in full again
News: Packers RB James Starks (knee, ankle) was able to practice in full for a second straight day Thursday, increasing his chances of playing Week 13 at N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: Starks has had plenty of time to recover since re-injuring his ankle Thanksgiving and appears on track to play barring a setback. The Packers aren't a run-heavy team, so it's not like Starks needs to be 100 percent to be effective against the Giants. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 13.
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| 11/30/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks practices Wednesday
News: Packers RB James Starks, who tweaked an ankle injury Thanksgiving against the Lions, practiced Wednesday in prep for Week 13 at N.Y. Giants. Starks practiced in full.
Analysis: Starks has had nearly a week to rest since re-injuring his ankle, and it appears it was enough time for him. Now, he just has to avoid a setback leading up to Sunday's game. The Packers aren't a run-heavy team, so it's not like Starks needs to be 100 percent to be effective against the Giants. If he plays, however, consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB.
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| 11/24/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks tweaks ankle in win
News: Packers RB James Starks was active and did start at Detroit on Thanksgiving Day, but a tweaked ankle put a cap on his already-limited stats. Though he dominated playing time through the first half and into the third quarter, he re-aggravated his ankle injury and sat out the final 20 minutes of the game according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette. Starks had just four carries for 19 yards as both Ryan Grant and rookie Brandon Saine took some snaps from him before the injury and split his reps following the injury. Remember, Starks entered the game with knee and ankle sprains stemming from his game on Sunday against the Bucs. Starks said after the game that he felt he could have returned if necessary.
Analysis: By now you should know that Starks isn't a gamer and probably can land around 70 to 90 total yards per week so long as he's healthy. He's got a decent matchup at the Giants in Week 13 but he's still no better than a No. 3 Fantasy RB. We'll keep you posted on his status.
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| 11/24/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks active for Lions game
News: The Packers have listed RB James Starks as active for Week 12 at the Lions. He dealt with knee and ankle injuries suffered just days ago against the Bucs but worked out before the game Thursday and was deemed ready to play.
Analysis: Starks has dominated carries out of the backfield and recorded at least nine carries in every game this season. Ryan Grant should snake some carries but expect Starks to be given his usual 10-to-15 touches. The Lions are allowing an average of 14.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing backs. Consider Starks a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB.
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| 11/23/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks a game-time decision
News: Green Bay RB James Starks has been back at practice in preparation of the Week 12 Thanksgiving game on Thursday in Detroit. Starks sat out Monday and is dealing with a knee sprain. That said, coach Mike McCarthy said Starks will be a game-time decision and is officially listed as questionable on the injury report for the game. Starks, who is also bothered by a sore ankle, left the Packers' last game with the knee injury and did not return. Starks has rushed for 541 yards and a touchdown on 120 carries this season.
Analysis: Starks still needs to show more improvement if he wants to play at full speed following the Packers' short week. Starks has dominated carries out of the backfield and recorded at least nine carries in every game this season en route to easily surpassing his previous career high for attempts (29). If he is unable to play, Ryan Grant would earn the majority of carries against Detroit in Week 11. The Lions are allowing an average of 14.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing backs. Consider Starks a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB if he's healthy enough to play.
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| 11/22/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks offers hope of playing
News: Green Bay RB James Starks returned to practice Tuesday after sitting out Monday's session with a knee sprain. Starks, who is also bothered by a sore ankle, left the Packers' last game with the knee injury and did not return. Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy said he would not rule out Starks for Thursday's game and it will be a medical decision if he plays. Starks has rushed for 541 yards and a touchdown on 120 carries this season.
Analysis: Starks will probably need to improve quickly if he wants to play at full speed following the Packers' short week. Starks has dominated carries out of the backfield and recorded at least nine carries in every game this season en route to easily surpassing his previous career high for attempts (29). If he is unable to play, Ryan Grant would earn the majority of carries against Detroit in Week 11. The Lions are allowing an average of 14.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing backs. Consider Starks a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB if he's healthy enough to play.
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| 11/21/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Packers upbeat about Starks
News: Packers coach Mike McCarthy isn't ready to rule out RB James Starks for a Thanksgiving Day showdown with the Lions in Week 12. Starks tested out well and has a chance to practice Tuesday. "It’s better than what it looked. It didn’t look very good," McCarthy said of Starks' knee sprain. He added Starks' knee and ankle are sore Monday.
Analysis: The short week doesn't help Starks, but it sounds as though the Packers are cautiously optimistic. Continue to keep tabs on Starks' progress, but since he might not be 100 percent if he plays, then there is definitely some risk involved to using Starks in Week 12. Ryan Grant would see the bulk of carries if Starks is out or limited.
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| 11/20/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks leaves with knee injury
News: Packers RB James Starks suffered an apparent knee sprain late in the fourth quarter of Week 11's game against the Buccaneers. He had to be helped off the field, and he did not return. Starks ran the ball 11 times for 38 yards and made six catches for another 53 yards. Coach Mike McCarthy told reporters that he will have tests conducted on his knee to determine the extent of the injury.
Analysis: Starks didn't accomplish much on the ground in Week 11, but he helped Fantasy owners with his receiving. He could be worth a start in Week 12 against the Lions, given that he is healthy enough to play. Check back on Starks' status to see if he should be made active for the Thanksgiving tilt.
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| 11/17/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to bust out in Week 11?
News: Packers RB James Starks has produced fewer than 70 yards in each of the last two games, and he has yet to gain 100 yards in a game this season, but he has an opportunity to increase his production in Week 11. He will face the Bucccaneers, who rank 29th in the league against the run. Also, no team has allowed opposing running backs to amass more Fantasy points per game than Tampa Bay has.
Analysis: Starks is normally best-suited as a No. 3 Fantasy RB or as a flex option, but he could have a little more value this week due to his highly favorable matchup. While Starks has not scored a touchdown since Week 1, the Buccaneers have allowed 11 rushing touchdowns this season, so in addition to getting extra yardage, Starks has a chance to snap his scoreless streak. Think of him as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 11.
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| 11/15/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks leads the way for Packers
News: Packers RB James Starks led his team in rushing in Week 10 against the Vikings. He gained 63 yards on 13 carries in the 45-7 win. He had a long run of 15 and averaged 4.8 yards per carry. Starks also caught three passes for 11 yards in the victory.
Analysis: Starks has rushed for 60-plus yards in each of the last three games and appears to be moving ahead of Ryan Grant for carries in Green Bay. While he has been unable to find the end zone since Week 1, he has seen double-digits carries in all but one game thus far and has proven to be a better between-the-tackles runner. He might be able to snap his touchdown drought in Week 11 against the Buccaneers so consider Starks as no worse than a No. 3 Fantasy RB for that matchup.
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| 11/9/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks looking to get back in end zone
News: Packers RB James Starks will be looking to get back in the end zone in Week 10 against the Vikings. Starks, who has rushed for 440 yards on 96 carries thus far, has not scored a touchdown since back in Week 1. Minnesota enters Monday night's contest ranked fourth in run defense, allowing 94.4 yards per game. He surrendered five touchdowns on the ground and surrendered an average of 17 Fantasy points to opposing RBs on the season.
Analysis: Starks continues to split carries with Ryan Grant, although he has been seeing the bulk of the work lately. He has garnered at least 12 carries in each of his last five contests and has racked up 293 yards on the ground over that stretch. Still, he looks to have a tough matchup in Week 10, as the Vikings have done a decent job defending the run thus far. Starks finished with 75 yards on 13 carries the last time he faced Minnesota, so consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB next Monday night.
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| 11/6/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks nets 75 yards in Week 9
News: Packers RB James Starks was relatively productive in Week 9 against the Chargers. Starks finished with 66 yards rushing on 13 carries in the 45-38 win, but was unable to get in the end zone. He averaged 5.1 yards per carry and also caught one pass for 9 yards. Starks finished with 14 total touches in the victory and averaged 5.4 yards each time he touched the ball.
Analysis: Starks was able to turn in a fairly productive performance on Sunday and once again led the team in rushing. While he continues to split carries with Ryan Grant, Starks has been seeing the bulk of the work of late. He has had at least 11 carries in each of his last six games and has racked up 298 yards over on the ground over that stretch. However, he has been unable to get find the end zone since back in Week 1, but does appear to have a favorable matchup in Week 10 against Minnesota. Starks racked up 99 total yards the first time he faced the Vikings back in Week 7 and can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RB next Monday night.
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| 11/1/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks looking to score
News: Packers RB James Starks will be looking to get back in the end zone in Week 9 against the Chargers. Starks has rushed for 374 yards on 83 carries thus far, but hasn't scored a touchdown since Week 1. San Diego enters Sunday's contest ranked 17th in run defense, allowing 117 yards per game. The Chargers have surrendered four touchdowns on the ground and are allowing an average of 15 Fantasy points to opposing RBs on the season.
Analysis: Starks continues to split carries with Ryan Grant, although he has been seeing the bulk of the work lately. The 25-year-old has had at least 12 carries in each of his last four games and he has racked up 227 yards on the ground over that stretch. While the Chargers have done a decent job limiting the production of RBs this season, the Packers' passing game should open up some running lanes on Sunday. Consider Starks a No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 9.
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| 10/23/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks leads the way for G.B.
News: Packers RB James Starks was held quiet early on in Week 7 against the Vikings but ended up having a pretty decent performance in the 33-27 win. He carried the ball 13 times for 75 yards. He had a long run of 20 and averaged 5.8 yards per rush. Starks, who also caught three passes for 24 yards, led Green Bay in rushing in the win, ahead of Ryan Grant (29 yards).
Analysis: Starks picked up most of his yardage on the final drive of the game and helped the Packers run out the clock to improve to 7-0 on the year. It was his highest rushing total since Week 2 and he remained productive in the passing game as well. He will continue to split carries with Grant going forward but keep an eye on the situation to see if anyone can break out. The Packers are on a bye next week so keep Starks stashed away until Week 9 against the Chargers.
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| 10/19/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to run all over Minnesota?
News: Packers RB James Starks will be going up against a Vikings run defense in Week 7 that was carved up a week ago. Minnesota allowed Chicago to run for 119 yards and a touchdown in Week 6. The Vikings rank fourth in the league against the run, giving up under 84 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 19 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: Starks continues to split carries with Ryan Grant in Green Bay but has been more productive of the two in recent weeks. He leads the Packers with 299 yards rushing yards, and has seen 22 more carries than Grant. While the Vikings have been tough against the run thus far, the Packers' passing game should open up some plays for Starks so consider him as a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 7.
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| 10/16/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks held to 66 total yards
News: Packers RB James Starks did not have the game many were hoping for Sunday against the Rams. Starks had 13 carries for 49 yards and two catches for 17 yards. He again was able to outplay Ryan Grant (nine carries for 25 yards and two catches for 27 yards), but neither RB was overly productive.
Analysis: We hope that Starks can continue to get the majority of touches for the Packers, but he needs to be more productive than just 66 total yards. Consider Starks a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RB heading into Week 7 at Minnesota, and hopefully his production will increase.
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| 10/13/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks ready for Rams
News: Packers RB James Starks heads into his Week 6 game with the Rams hoping for a productive game. He has the chance to do well in a positive matchup. St. Louis has allowed LeSean McCoy, Brandon Jacobs, Ray Rice and Ryan Torain to reach double digits in Fantasy points, and Starks has a chance for his best game of the season in this matchup. Ryan Grant isn’t going away, but his fumble last week at Atlanta should help Starks continue to dominate the touches for this backfield.
Analysis: We like Starks in this game, and he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RB. Hopefully he can show some consistent production, and he's worth starting in this matchup in all formats.
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| 10/10/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks sees more touches
News: Green Bay had to play catch up in Week 5 in Atlanta, which limited the team to just 20 carries on the day. RB James Starks saw the bulk of the touches as he had 12 carries for 40 yards, his longest run going for 11 yards. QB Aaron Rodgers also targeted him three times in the passing game. Starks caught two passes for 19 yards. Green Bay would rally to win the game, 25-14, over Atlanta.
Analysis: With Ryan Grant back for Green Bay, it will be tricky to gauge which back will get more touches. The Packers will likely ride whichever back is hot. Fantasy owners of Starks should hope he gains the edge and continues to see more carries. Keep tabs on this running back situation in Green Bay. Heading into Week 6, the Packers host the Rams, which are allowing the most yards on the ground in the NFL. Even with him sharing time with Grant, Starks is worth using in all Fantasy leagues next week.
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| 10/5/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks looking like backup for Week 5
News: As anticipated, Packers RB Ryan Grant (kidney) was able to return to practice on Wednesday. Grant, who missed Week 4 against Denver with a kidney issue, expects to return in Week 5 at Atlanta. He said on Sunday that the team's medical staff has given him a thumbs-up to play after his latest urine test showed no more blood in his urine. Grant's pending return would likely lead to a secondary role this week for James Starks. He rushed for 63 yards on 13 carries in Sunday's game, adding 38 receiving yards on five catches.
Analysis: Should Grant return, as it appears he will barring any setbacks, Starks will have his touches cut into and would therefore lose much of his Fantasy appeal going into Week 5 against the Falcons. Atlanta has allowed an average of 18 combined Fantasy points (in standard CBSSports.com formats) to opposing RBs this season. They have allowed four touchdowns to RBs (three rushing, one receiving). Continue to monitor this situation, but Fantasy owners should not expect much more than 10 rush attempts for Starks in his team's upcoming game, making him a No. 3 RB option in most formats at best.
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| 10/3/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to share touches in Week 5?
News: ESPN reports that Packers RB Ryan Grant, who missed Week 4 against Denver with a kidney issue, expects to return in Week 5 at Atlanta. He said on Sunday that the team's medical staff has given him a thumbs-up to play after his latest urine test showed no more blood in his urine. In Grant's absence, James Starks led the team with 13 carries for 63 yards. He also was targeted six times in the passing game, catching five passes for 38 yards. Green Bay would go on to beat Denver, 49-23.
Analysis: Grant still needs one more clearance from doctors before he can get the green light to practice, and eventually play, this week. That will come after a scheduled medical scan on Monday. Should Grant return, Starks will have his touches cut into and would therefore lose much of his Fantasy appeal going into Week 5 against the Falcons. Continue to monitor this situation, but Fantasy owners should not expect much more than 10 rush attempts for Starks in his team's upcoming game, making him a No. 3 RB option in most formats.
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| 10/2/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks paces Packers run game
News: The Packers didn't need a big game from RB James Starks in Week 4 against the Broncos as Aaron Rodgers would air it out. Starks did, however, lead the team with 13 carries for 63 yards. He also was targeted six times in the passing game, catching five passes for 38 yards. Green Bay would go on to beat Denver, 49-23.
Analysis: Starks continues to be the lead running back with Ryan Grant dealing with injuries this year. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor the health of Grant and the running back situation in Green Bay. The Packers face the Falcons in Week 5, a team that gave up just 53 yards on the ground to the Seahawks in Week 4. Still, Green Bay's offense is much better than Seattle and Starks should be able to get something going. Fantasy owners should view him as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 RB option for Week 5.
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| 9/30/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to see more carries?
News: Green Bay RB James Starks could see additional work during the team's Week 4 matchup against Denver on Sunday. Fellow RB Ryan Grant, who has split time in the backfield with Starks this season, has been ruled out for the outing because of a bruised kidney. Packers coach Mike McCarthy said Friday that Starks and RB John Kuhn will handle the running back rotation against the Broncos.
Analysis: Starks should be the starting running back in a rotation that includes Kuhn as he is normally used as the team's goal-line carrier. Starks is averaging 4.6 yards per carry this season on 32 attempts -- the same number of rushes as Grant. He was limited to just 14 total yards, including five rushing, in Week 3 against Chicago. Starks faces a surprisingly tough Broncos defense that limited Tennessee RB Chris Johnson to 21 yards last Sunday. Consider Starks a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 4.
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| 9/28/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Packers to lean on RB Starks?
News: Packers RB Ryan Grant (kidney) did not practice Wednesday and his status for Week 4 against the Broncos will be determined later in the week. However, coach Mike McCarthy didn't sound optimistic on Wednesday that Grant would play Sunday, despite Grant indicating he is ready. If Grant is sidelined, then the bulk of the rushing duties would fall to RB James Starks, who was held to 5 yards on 11 carries in Week 3 against the Bears. The Broncos are allowing 100 yards on the ground per contest this season.
Analysis: Starks really disappointed Fantasy owners in Week 3, but it seems he has a path to redemption in Week 4. Even if Grant is active, you wonder how many carries he will get Sunday if he isn't 100 percent? If you are looking to start a Packers RB for Week 4, then Starks appears to be the leading candidate as of now. If anything changes, then we will let you know.
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| 9/25/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks disappoints in Week 3
News: Packers RB James Starks was expected to be the lead runner for Green Bay heading into the Week 3 game in Chicago. With Ryan Grant taking a back seat, Starks should have been the one getting the bulk of the carries. That said, Grant led the Packers with 17 carries for 92 yards while Starks was limited to 11 carries for just 5 yards on Sunday. Starks did make three catches for 9 yards and was targeted in the passing game four times by QB Aaron Rodgers.
Analysis: Starks actually saw fewer carries than Grant in the Week 3 game and suffered his first career fumble in the second half. Although that was slightly unexpected, Starks remains the No. 1 option for the Packers. If anything, Starks and Grant will split reps going forward heading into Week 4 against the Broncos. Starks is more of an option in the passing game for Rodgers, however, and should be considered the better Fantasy option at this time. Consider Starks a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 4 against Denver.
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| 9/24/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks ready to rock Week 3
News: Packers RB James Starks is the clear-cut top back for Green Bay as the team heads to Chicago for Week 3. Ryan Grant is just a backup at this point and Starks is ready for another 100-yard-plus effort against the Bears. Starks topped 100 total yards last week and could do the same in Week 3 against a team that has already given up 140 total yards to Michael Turner in Week 1 and well over 100 total yards to the triumvirate of Darren Sproles, Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram of the Saints in Week 2.
Analysis: Starks was excellent against the Bears last season in the NFC Championship game as he rushed for 74 yards and a touchdown. An even bigger part of the running game at this point for the Packers, Starks should be in for another excellent week. Consider him a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB for the Week 3 game in Chicago.
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| 9/18/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks goes over 100 total yards
News: Green Bay RB James Starks had another impressive day running the football in the Week 2 win at Carolina. Starks led the Packers and Ryan Grant in rushing with nine carries for 85 yards. He was limited in the first half, but the Packers kept giving him the ball and he eventually broke off a 40-yard gain in the second. Starks did not score, but he did make three catches for 30 yards in the contest as he totaled 115 yards overall.
Analysis: Starks picked up his first catch of the year in the Week 2 game and he's seemingly taking greater control of the running game for Green Bay with each passing week. Although he was limited by the Panthers early on, Starks still appears to be the better RB for the Packers and got going the later the game progressed. Once Green Bay gives in and moves away from Grant as starter, Starks could explode in Fantasy value. Look for Starks to already be worth using over Grant in Week 3 at Chicago. Consider Starks a solid option as a No. 3 Fantasy RB against the Bears.
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| 9/16/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks the man for Green Bay?
News: Green Bay RB James Starks may not be starting Week 2 at Carolina, but he seems likely to get the bulk of the carries. Starks carried 12 times for 57 yards and a TD Week 1 against New Orleans and starter Ryan Grant only got 10 total touches for 45 yards. Starks could have a big day against a Panthers team that gave up nearly 100 yards and a TD to Beanie Wells of Arizona last week.
Analysis: Starks still must lose some carries to Grant, but he has a very good matchup heading into the Week 2 game in Carolina. The Panthers gave up 100 yards on the ground last week with a TD and also allowed RBs to catch six passes. Starks is going to continue to get a lot of work for Green Bay and should be a decent No. 2 Fantasy RB heading into Week 2. We like him more than Grant at this point.
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| 9/9/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks is spark in Week 1
News: Green Bay RB James Starks scampered for 57 yards and a touchdown on 12 attempts during the Packers' 42-34 Week 1 victory over New Orleans on Thursday night. Starks, who did not start the game, scored on an impressive 17-yard run when he barreled over several tacklers during the second quarter. It was the only touchdown by a Green Bay running back, including starter Ryan Grant, until John Kuhn scored in the fourth. "James did well, probably didn't have the attempts that he deserved," said coach Mike McCarthy said.
Analysis: Starks turned in a better performance than Grant to further cloud the Packers' backfield situation. The second-year running back broke several tackles and kept several plays alive with his powerful runs throughout the game. He was also the primary back throughout the red zone as Green Bay provided him three more carries than Starks in the game. Starks and Grant will likely continue sharing carries and Fantasy owners should continue to monitor the situation. Consider Starks a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB or flex option in Week 2 at Carolina.
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| 9/6/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Report: Grant, Starks will split reps
News: Packers running backs Ryan Grant and James Starks are expected to split reps in the team's Week 1 game vs. the Saints. Grant had the slightly better preseason though neither back distinguished himself; Grant was the better rusher, Starks was the better receiver. "They're both going to take pretty much all situations in the game," RB coach Jerry Fontenot told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "Evenly dispersed? I can't guarantee it. But I'm certainly going try to get each one of those guys an equal amount of opportunities to carry the football, to hold onto the football and to control the clock for us."
Analysis: Our hunch is that Grant will serve as the "running downs" back and Starks as the "passing downs" back until one player begins to work out better than the other. Starks has some good potential but as long as Grant is effective his playing time will be limited. Draft him with a middle- to late-round pick, especially if you draft Grant earlier, and don't consider him a good starting option for Week 1 vs. the Saints.
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| 8/26/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks displays receiving skills
News: Packers RB James Starks had only two carries in the first two preseason games (he sat out against Arizona with an ankle injury), and the second-year RB ran just once in the first half Friday against Indianapolis while the starters were in the game. The Packers' rushing attack took a back seat to the passing game, as Starks and Ryan Grant ran seven times to QB Aaron Rodgers' 19 passes while the team ran the no-huddle offense most of the time. Starks also had five catches for 38 yards and he was the back in the game more times than not in shotgun formation.
Analysis: Starks is clearly the passing-down back in Green Bay, but he was still on the field for about half the time. Grant started the contest and got the ball early. Both backs saw near the same amount of touches on the night. Starks had one carry for 2 yards and the five catches, while Grant saw six carries for 16 yards to go along with a 6-yard reception. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the distribution going forward, though Friday's indication was a 50/50 timeshare. Consider Starks more of a mid-round Fantasy selection.
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| 8/26/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks ready to run
News: Packers RB James Starks returned from a bothersome ankle injury this week and will play at Indianapolis in the third preseason game Friday after missing last week’s game against Arizona. From a physical standpoint, Starks (6-2, 218 pounds) looks the part of a feature back and has been impressive. He and Ryan Grant, who recently took a $1 million pay cut, will get their first extended look against the Colts. The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Starks is the leading candidate to start at RB for the Packers ahead of Grant.
Analysis: We hope to see Starks take hold of the starting job if it's out there for him. We're still skeptical that he will be ahead of Grant on the depth chart, but he's definitely someone to put on your sleeper list. Starks could end up as a steal on Draft Day if he ends up as the No. 1 option for the Packers in Week 1.
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| 8/13/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks hurts ankle
News: The Green Bay Press-Gazette reports that Packers RB James Starks rolled his ankle during Saturday's preseason game at Cleveland, but he said after the game he had no swelling and wasn’t walking with any kind of limp. He finished the game with two carries for 14 yards in a backup role behind Ryan Grant.
Analysis: Continue to monitor what happens with Starks and hope he is OK. It's looking more and more like Grant will return as the starter and No. 1 RB for the Packers this season, and his Fantasy value is on the rise. We consider Grant a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4. Starks will get some carries each week, but he should only be considered a handcuff option for Grant and be taken with a late-round pick.
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| 8/5/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks still hopes for big role
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers RB Ryan Grant is the starter in Green Bay, but that doesn't mean he will dominate the carries this season. Back from his season-ending ankle injury, Grant been working with the first team and playing well. But as all players at RB know, things can change on a dime during the course of the season, which means second-year RB James Starks could also be a factor. At least that's what coach Mike McCarthy has told his players. "We have a lot of backs," Starks said. "So if somebody's not doing what they're supposed to, I'm sure (McCarthy) will be able to count on any one of us. All of us are like brothers. We stick up for each other. If one's slacking, we try to pick that person up."
Analysis: We expect Starks to play a role for the Packers this season, but it's looking more and more like Grant is the main RB to target on Draft Day. Starks is still worth drafting as a No. 4 Fantasy RB in the majority of leagues, but he should only be selected with a late-round pick.
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| 7/11/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks behind Grant on depth chart?
News: Packers RB Ryan Grant, whose season ended in 2010 in Week 1 because of an ankle injury, said he expects to sit atop the running back depth chart when the lockout ends despite the emergence of James Starks in last season's playoffs. "From what I've heard, that's the conversation that was told to me," Grant told WSSP in Milwaukee. "I was told that by (former RBs coach Edgar Bennett), initially. Jerry (Fontenot, who took over for Bennett) didn't tell me that anything changed. Jerry told me that as of right now I'm still the leader of the backfield, and the expectations won't change. … I do believe there will be competition, which is fine. I'm all for that." Grant is also open to backing up Starks if needed. "If it was in the best interest of the team, I'm all for it," he said.
Analysis: The NFL is a "What have you done for me lately?" league. While Grant was a pretty productive running back before his injury last season, if he doesn't get back up to speed relatively quickly, then Green Bay might have to go a different route. And all the talk this offseason has been about how the Packers love Starks' long-term outlook. Starks started last season on the PUP list and didn't debut until Week 13, when he rushed for 73 yards on 18 carries. He didn't make a splash again until the playoffs, when he helped Green Bay to a Super Bowl win by rushing for 315 yards and one touchdown on 81 carries in four playoff games. Grant is probably the better Fantasy option to draft out of the two RBs, but Starks isn't far behind in the rankings. He is definitely an intriguing late-round Fantasy sleeper and great handcuff option for Grant owners.
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| 3/2/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks value on rise
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers coach Mike McCarthy said that RB James Starks "has a chance to be a great player," he's eager for Ryan Grant's return from a leg injury. McCarthy said he expects Grant and Starks to compete for carries. "That's the way we've always played," said McCarthy. "I'm not looking to run one guy into the ground."
Analysis: Starks closed the season as the starter for the Packers after Grant went down in Week 1 with an ankle injury. Starks shined in the playoffs and should be able to get his share of touches next year while sharing time with Grant. We still expect Grant to be the starter, but Starks is a good handcuff option and worth a mid-round pick. Don't be surprised if the Packers rely on Starks during the season based on his play late in 2010 and the idea of keeping Grant fresh as the year goes on.
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| 2/23/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Packers compare Starks to AP
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that the Packers will be strongly committed to RB James Starks in 2011. The report says that some in the Green Bay organization "view Starks as a poor man's Adrian Peterson, big enough to run through people and fast enough to take it all the way." The story also adds that Packers running backs coach Edgar Bennett said Starks runs a legitimate 4.4 in the 40-dash, which is impressive for a 218-pound guy. And he'll only get stronger with a year in the weight room. The Packers are expected to have Starks battle Ryan Grant, who was placed on injured reserve after an ankle injury in Week 1 in 2010, for the starting job.
Analysis: This is high praise for Starks, who had an impressive postseason run to help Green Bay win the Super Bowl but didn't do much in the regular season. We still expect Grant to start and play a prominent role, but it's clear the Packers are high on Starks. If he wins the starting job in Green Bay, which is a stretch, then his Fantasy value would skyrocket to a potential starter in the majority of leagues. But if he opens the season behind Grant then Starks would only be worth drafting with a late-round pick. Still, based on the way Starks finished the year and the positive praise coming from Green Bay, it pays to have Starks on your draft board this summer.
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| 2/16/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to compete with Grant
News: The Buffalo News reports that Packers RB James Starks, who is from the Buffalo area, returned home Tuesday to celebrate his Super Bowl championship. Starks said he is already looking forward to 2011 when he plans to compete with Ryan Grant for playing time. "Competition is always good," Starks said. "That's when I'm best. ... Everybody in the NFL has an opportunity to play. There's great talent everywhere. With Ryan back, it's going to make me that much better."
Analysis: Starks closed the season as the starter for the Packers after Grant went down in Week 1 with an ankle injury, and Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn were good but not great as his replacement. Starks shined in the playoffs and should be able to get his share of touches next year while sharing time with Grant. We still expect Grant to be the starter, but Starks is a good handcuff option and worth a late-round pick. Don't be surprised if the Packers rely on Starks during the season based on his play late in 2010 and the idea of keeping Grant fresh as the year goes on.
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| 2/7/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks finds room
News: Green Bay RB James Starks rushed for 52 yards on 11 carries in the Packers' 31-25 victory over Pittsburgh in Super Bowl XLV on Sunday. Despite collecting his fewest attempts of the postseason, Starks became just the fifth running back to reach 50 yards against the Steelers top-ranked rush defense this season, including the playoffs. Starks was the only running back to carry the ball for Green Bay and his 4.7 yards per attempt marked his second-highest average of the season.
Analysis: Starks proved to be the Packers' best ball-carrier at the end of the season and could find himself in a timeshare with RB Ryan Grant next season. He finished the postseason with over 50 yards in all four playoff games, highlighted by a sparkling 123-yard effort against Philadelphia in the Wild Card round. Starks, who was drafted in the sixth round of last year's NFL Draft, finished with 315 yards in the postseason on 81 carries. Depending on his position on the team's depth chart, he could make for an enticing sleeper selection in 2011 Fantasy drafts. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB for now.
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| 1/23/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks leads the way
News: Green Bay RB James Starks racked up 74 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries in the Packers' 21-14 victory over Chicago in the NFC Championship game on Sunday. It was the rookie's first career touchdown and his third consecutive game surpassing 60 yards -- all playoff wins. Starks also hauled in one pass for six yards but was again the focal point of Green Bay's rushing attack. His longest rush of the game -- 16 yards -- was more than the combined total of the Packers' other running backs (seven).
Analysis: Starks turned in another dazzling performance as he received 20-plus carries for the third consecutive game. The first-year player from Buffalo made an impressive play on his 4-yard touchdown run. Starks, who consistently read holes in the defense and ran with great confidence, put his hand down before hitting the ground but lunged forward into the end zone for the score. He remains the team's leading back for the Super Bowl and makes for a worthwhile option in Fantasy playoff leagues. And with another impressive performance, he could push himself into a timeshare with Ryan Grant next season.
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| 1/20/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to see the field plenty
News: Packers Rookie RB James Starks played slightly more than 40 snaps against Atlanta last week and probably will see at least that many against Chicago in the NFC Championship game Sunday. Coach Mike McCarthy feels he now has it where teams don't know for sure whether a running play is coming every time Starks steps on the field. He has run for a combined 189 yards in the first two rounds of the playoffs.
Analysis: Starks is the unquestioned lead back in Green Bay after he was the only ball carrier to receive more than two carries in the Divisional round. In the Wildcard round, he was the only RB with more than three carries. Starks has carried the ball 48 times in the first two weeks of the playoffs, while no other runner has more than five runs. Still, Starks has yet to be a factor in the passing game, which could change this week against the stout Bears defense. As long as he continues to receive a high number of touches, he is a worthwhile option in all Fantasy playoff leagues. As for 2011, Starks will likely be a quality backup RB behind Ryan Grant worth drafting only in later rounds of Fantasy drafts.
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| 1/16/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks runs past Falcons
News: Green Bay RB James Starks rushed for 66 yards on 25 carries to help the Packers claim a 48-21 victory over Atlanta in an NFC Divisional Playoff on Saturday night. Starks, who was coming off a 123-yard performance in last week's Wild Card victory at Philadelphia, led all players in rushing as Green Bay displayed excellent ball control. Starks also out-gained Atlanta star RB Michael Turner (39 yards) but did not factor into the passing game and was held without a catch.
Analysis: While it wasn't another career outing, Starks posted an efficient performance as the Packers advanced to the NFC Championship game for the second time in four years. Starks has piled up 189 yards in Green Bay's two postseason games and appears to be the leading ball-carrier out of the backfield. As long as he continues to receive a high number of touches, he is a worthwhile option in all Fantasy playoff leagues. As for 2011, Starks will likely be a quality backup RB behind Ryan Grant worth drafting only in later rounds of Fantasy drafts.
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| 1/13/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks will get 'opportunities'
News: Before last Sunday, Starks was a sixth-round pick out of Buffalo who had struggled to get on the field because of injuries and inconsistent practice habits -- though some Fantasy owners might have known about him. Anyway, he then rushed for 123 yards in Green Bay's 21-16 playoff victory at Philadelphia. Head coach Mike McCarthy was impressed with Starks' game, and as such he'll get some chances Saturday. "He'll have opportunities in Atlanta," McCarthy said. "How many, the game will dictate that. He has earned that opportunity based off his performance this past week."
Analysis: Starks should be in a position to post fair numbers against the Falcons, who have given up four rushing touchdowns and two 100-yard rushers over their last five games. Consider him a moderate starter in Playoff Challenge leagues. As for next year, Starks sets up as a quality backup RB in Green Bay behind Ryan Grant, who was placed on injured reserve after Week 1 with an ankle injury. As long as Grant is healthy, Starks would only be worth drafting with a late-round pick in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
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| 1/11/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to get chance vs. Falcons
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers coach Mike McCarthy will stick with RB James Starks in Saturday's playoff game at Atlanta in the second round of the playoffs after Starks helped Green Bay advance with 23 carries for 123 yards at Philadelphia. "Well, he definitely deserves opportunity," McCarthy said Monday. "He'll run the ball against Atlanta, if that's what you're asking me. Yeah, he's going to carry the ball in Atlanta. He earned that."
Analysis: It makes sense to give Starks another chance to run the ball against the Falcon after the way he played against the Eagles. Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn are better suited as specialists, while Starks is someone who can move the chains and be used on first and second down. Keep an eye on how he does the rest of the postseason and hopefully he continues to run well. Heading into 2011, Starks sets up as a quality No. 2 RB in Green Bay behind Ryan Grant, who was placed on injured reserve after Week 1 with an ankle injury. As long as Grant is healthy, Starks would only be worth drafting with a late-round pick in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
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| 1/10/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks sparks win
News: Green Bay RB James Starks rushed for a game-high 123 yards on 23 carries to help the Packers to a 21-16 victory over Philadelphia in an NFC Wild Card matchup on Sunday. Starks' sterling output represented the most rushing yards in the postseason by a rookie in franchise history, breaking Travis Williams' record (88 yards) against the L.A. Rams in 1967. Starks added two receptions for nine yards to finish with two receptions for the second game in a row. "He had the hot hand, and I rode it,'' head coach Mike McCarthy said.
Analysis: Well, that was unexpected. Starks, who was inactive in two of the Packers' last three games of the regular season, surprised the Eagles' 15th-ranked rush defense for a career-high 5.3 yards per carry on Sunday. Perhaps Starks' finest play of the game was his 12-yard carry on the Packers' final drive, a run that allowed Green Bay to record a first down and forced Philadelphia to use all of its remaining timeouts to stop the clock. The Packers obviously went with Starks over RB Brandon Jackson since the rookie showed he was the hottest back in the game but the team's strategy for next week against Atlanta is undetermined. If you are in a playoff league, monitor Starks throughout the week for his status in Green Bay's offense. As for a long-term view, a game doesn't make a career and Starks will likely still have to settle for a limited role in 2011 so long as Ryan Grant is healthy and back on the field.
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| 1/2/2011 |
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![James Starks]() |
Not much from Starks in Week 17
News: Packers RB James Starks saw a few touches in Week 17 against the Bears but he was unable to produce much. He gained 20 yards on five carries and also had two catches for 15 yards in the 10-3 win. Starks finished the regular season with 29 carries for 101 yards in three games.
Analysis: Starks gained 73 yards on the ground in his first game for the Packers but didn't do much after that. Green Bay likes to mix in the run every once in a while but they have been far more successful throwing the ball with QB Aaron Rodgers. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how the rookie does in the playoffs but as long as he is buried on the depth chart in Green Bay, he will continue to have marginal value in most leagues. Depending on what he role is in 2011, plan on ignoring Starks on Draft Day.
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| 12/30/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to play vs. Bears?
News: Packers RB James Starks is in line to be active for the first time since Dec. 12 in Week 17 against the Bears. Starks has been inactive the last two weeks, mostly because his practices haven't been up to par. "We have him working with both the special teams and offensive reps," coach Mike McCarthy said. Chicago enters Sunday ranked third in the league against the run, allowing just over 92 yards per contest, and have given up an average of 15.1 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: Starks has gained just 81 yards on 24 carries this season and has seen himself plummet on the depth chart after being inactive for two weeks. Even if he does play in Week 17 against the Bears, leave the rookie on the bench in a majority of Fantasy leagues.
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| 12/27/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Coach: Starks isn't prepared
News: Rookie RB James Starks hasn't been active because he isn't as prepared on offense and special teams as Dimitri Nance, coach Mike McCarthy said. Starks has been inactive the last two games despite a solid game against San Francisco on Dec. 5 (18 carries, 73 yards).
Analysis: Starks is a candidate to earn a reserve role on the Packers in 2011. He shouldn't be counted on for Fantasy help in Week 17 against the Bears.
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| 12/26/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks out for Week 16
News: Green Bay RB James Starks is inactive for the Packers' Week 16 games against the Giants. Starks, who was also a healthy scratch in Green Bay's Week 15 game also, was not on the team's injury report this week.
Analysis: Starks wasn't expected to find much running room against New York's 10th-ranked rushing offense on Sunday and was already the backup to Brandon Jackson. Avoid him in all formats for Week 16.
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| 12/23/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to sit again?
News: Offensive coordinator Joe Philbin couldn't say for sure that RB James Starks will be active for the Week 16 game against the Giants. Starks was down last week in favor of fullback Korey Hall, who is a better special teams player. Starks' speed could be used against a physical Giants defense.
Analysis: Starks had a surprising performance in a rout of the 49ers a few weeks ago that made him a desirable Fantasy pickup, but since then he has been a non-factor. Last week, he was even a healthy scratch for the game against the Patriots. Avoid Starks in Fantasy play heading into Sunday.
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| 12/19/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks a healthy scratch
News: Surprisingly, Packers RB James Starks was listed among the team's inactives for the Week 15 game against the Patriots. He was not on the team's injury report at any point this week. Brandon Jackson should get the bulk of the carries.
Analysis: Starks was not expected to do a large amount of damage on Sunday night, but some Fantasy owners are still starting the backup. Keep him out of lineups this week and monitor the next few days to find out exactly why he was a healthy scratch. Starks is a low-end Fantasy option when healthy and playing.
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| 12/18/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks not so hot
News: After surprising the 49ers with 78 yards on the ground two weeks ago, Packers RB James Starks followed it up with a measly 8 yards last week. In Week 15, he will try his luck against the Patriots, who rank 14th in the league against the run, although they have given up the 11th-most Fantasy points to RBs.
Analysis: The rookie from Buffalo was a hot Fantasy pickup two weeks ago, but once owners realized he racked up all those yards against San Francisco in garbage time, the buzz was gone. Starks should be able to carry the ball a bit more than usual on Sunday night because QB Aaron Rodgers will not play. Still, the Packers running game has been a pedestrian unit all season and we don't see them gashing the Patriots at home. Seek other options in Fantasy play.
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| 12/12/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks doesn't repeat success
News: Packers RB James Starks had an impressive season debut in Week 13 against the 49ers, rushing for 73 yards, but he made a much smaller contribution in Week 14's 7-3 loss to Detroit. Starks carried the ball six times for only 8 yards.
Analysis: Starks picked up quite a few owners over the past week due to his surprising debut, but as Week 14 showed, he is not a lock to produce on a weekly basis. Despite a good matchup at the Patriots in Week 15, Starks is a risky start in standard formats.
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| 12/8/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks feeling good Wednesday
News: Packers rookie RB James Starks said he felt great after his first NFL action Sunday and wasn't sore at all. He said his goal is to play with better balance and break more tackles as the season goes on. He carried 18 times for 73 yards in his first game in almost two years. In Week 14, the team takes on the Lions.
Analysis: Even though Brandon Jackson might remain the starter, it's clear Starks has more upside and is worth adding in all leagues. He's only owned in 20 percent of leagues on CBSSports.com but could be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 14 against Detroit. We hope Starks can finish the season strong because he has the potential to be a solid Fantasy option down the stretch in this Green Bay offense.
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| 12/6/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
McCarthy impressed with Starks
News: The Green Bay Press-Gazette reports Monday that Packers coach Mike McCarthy said that RB Brandon Jackson "is still our main guy as halfback," but he wants to get a three-man rotation going with Jackson, James Starks and Dimitri Nance. McCarthy said the Packers "don't think it's in our best interest to run Jackson 25 times per game." On Sunday against San Francisco in Week 13, Starks had 18 carries for 73 yards while Jackson only had four carries for 13 yards and four catches for 63 yards on four targets. It appears like Starks' role could increase as a rusher despite what McCarthy said. He added "everybody could see Starks' talent from day he arrived last spring. He had unusual hamstring injury that took long time to heal. "
Analysis: Even though Jackson might remain the starter, it's clear Starks has more upside and is worth adding in all leagues. He's only owned in 6 percent of leagues on CBSSports.com but could be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 14 against Detroit. We hope Starks can finish the season strong because he has the potential to be a solid Fantasy option down the stretch in this Green Bay offense.
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| 12/5/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks solid in first NFL action
News: Green Bay rookie James Starks was the feature running back for the Packers in the Week 13 win over the San Francisco 49ers. Starks rushed 18 times compared to Brandon Jackson's four rushes. He totaled 73 yards on the ground and did not score.
Analysis: Starks was only expected to see a few carries, at best, in the Week 13 game. He began the year on the PUP list. He remained inactive once activated off the PUP list until he got the nod on Sunday. He certainly looked solid, but the Packers continue to ignore the run for the most part. Since he didn't see any passes, it is hard to count on him for Week 14 at Detroit. He definitely will gain some value, but we wouldn't recommend starting him just yet.
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| 11/29/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks to make 2010 debut soon?
News: With Packers backup RB Dimitri Nance sidelined because of a concussion, the team might give RB James Starks a look in Week 13 vs. the 49ers. Starks wouldn't be expected to start, but he could land a few carries if Nance is out.
Analysis: Starks was a trendy sleeper earlier this season because of all of Green Bay's rushing problems. The physical rookie rusher out of the University of Buffalo hasn't played football in over 18 months, so there's no telling how well he'll hold up on the field. He's worth keeping an eye on, but not adding, to Fantasy rosters right now. The time to do it, if at all, would be just before Week 13 games if you have the available roster space.
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| 11/15/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks not close to playing
News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports Packers rookie RB James Starks, who was activated off the PUP list in Week 9, wore pads and practiced Monday for the first time this season. He has been out since pulling a hamstring in a late July conditioning run. The report says that "from appearances, it would seem that Starks would be several weeks away from playing in a game." He worked behind Brandon Jackson, John Kuhn and Dimitri Nance.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Starks and see how he does in practice. Hopefully we'll see the Packers use him in game action soon so we can determine if he's worth adding off the waiver wire. Starks is only owned in 7 percent of leagues on CBSSports.com and could be a sleeper for Fantasy owners down the stretch.
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| 11/9/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks activated off Packers' PUP
News: The Packers took RB James Starks off the physically unable to perform list on Tuesday, making him eligible to play this season. Starks hasn't played football since 2008; he missed all of his senior season at the University of Buffalo with a shoulder injury in '09 and missed all of the preseason last summer with the Packers. Starks now counts on the team's 53-man roster.
Analysis: Starks has upside in that he's a powerful runner, and obviously the Packers think he can contribute this year or else they would have moved him to injured reserve. With Brandon Jackson just now starting to play moderately well, though, Starks' potential isn't strong. He's only worth picking up in the deepest of dynasty/keeper leagues.
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| 11/8/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Decision coming on RB Starks
News: The Packers said Monday that a decision on RB James Starks' status will be made by Wednesday. Starks was placed on the PUP list with a hamstring injury but missed his entire senior season at the University of Buffalo with a shoulder injury. He has been doing light practice for the past couple of weeks but hasn't been activated. He also hasn't taken a hit in over a calendar year.
Analysis: Given the recent play of Brandon Jackson, we suspect that Starks will not be activated and thus effectively be "redshirted" for the 2010 season by going on injured reserve. Wait for an official announcement from the Packers first, but be prepared to cut ties with Starks in standard leagues. In dynasty/keeper leagues, his outlook is better since he's young and on a team that doesn't have a bruising back on staff, a role he could fill in 2011 the latest.
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| 11/3/2010 |
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Starks might be activated Week 9
News: With a roster spot open after the release of defensive end Mike Montgomery, Packers coach Mike McCarthy said the team won't decide on whether to activate cornerback Al Harris, safety Atari Bigby or running back James Starks from the physically unable to perform list until Saturday. The Packers play the Cowboys in Week 9.
Analysis: The Packers are averaging just 97 rushing yards per game and have been pretty disappointing since Ryan Grant suffered a season-ending injury Week 1. Starks is owned in 8 percent of CBSSports.com leagues because Fantasy owners feel he might be the solution to the Packers' woeful running game. However, until we see it happen, Starks remains just a Fantasy reserve.
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| 10/20/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks eager to get back on field
News: Packers rookie RB James Starks (hamstring), who is on the PUP list, was doing remedial drills in practice on Wednesday. "If they choose to activate me, that's all up to them," he said. "I have no clue about that." Green Bay plays divisional foe Minnesota in Week 7.
Analysis: The Packers' rushing offense has been less than spectacular since Ryan Grant went down with a season-ending injury in Week 1. Meaning Starks could provide a much-needed jolt once he is healthy. Don't forget that teams were considering him a potential first-round draft pick heading into his senior season at Buffalo and he only dropped because he was coming off a major injury. Starks is worth stashing in deeper Fantasy formats.
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| 10/18/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Packers RB Starks to practice
News: Packers head coach Mike McCarthy said Monday that RB James Starks, who has been on the team's physically unable to perform list through the first six weeks of the season, will practice this week. Starks was placed on the PUP list with a hamstring injury but missed his entire senior season at the University of Buffalo with a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Starks is a guy to keep an eye on -- while he's considered a bruiser who can grind between the tackles, he hasn't played a down of football in over a year and a half. But his legs are fresh and he could be given a chance to run in the Green Bay offense. Remember, this is a team that didn't make a trade for a running back after Grant got hurt; perhaps Starks is part of the reason why. He's worth tucking away in dynasty leagues and in seasonal leagues with deep rosters. In a typical standard format, he's only worth adding if you have the roster room. Remember, there's still a chance he never gets activated from the PUP list and misses all of the 2010 season. We'll keep you posted.
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| 8/31/2010 |
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![James Starks]() |
Starks starts on PUP list
News: The Packers placed CB Al Harris (ACL), S Atari Bigby (ankle) and RB James Starks (hamstring) on the PUP list on Tuesday, and RB Quinn Porter (knee) on injured reserve to get to the 75-player limit. Harris, Bigby and Starks can't be activated before Week 6.
Analysis: Starks was considered a top NFL prospect heading into his senior season at Buffalo before a season-ending shoulder injury ended those hopes. Starks still got drafted in the sixth round, but another injury is now putting his NFL career on hold. Even if Starks hangs around Green Bay, he will be buried on the depth chart as long as Ryan Grant is healthy. It's safe to ignore him in Fantasy.
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| 8/27/2010 |
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Starks remains sidelined
News: Packers RB James Starks did not play in Thursday's preseason game against the Colts, as expected. He suffered a setback in his recovery from his hamstring injury this week and was considered doubtful going into the game. His status for the preseason finale at Kansas City has yet to be determined.
Analysis: A sixth-round pick out of Buffalo this past spring, Starks is currently buried on the Packers depth chart. Continue to ignore him in standard Fantasy play.
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| 8/24/2010 |
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Starks' hamstring flares up
News: Packers RB James Starks has suffered a setback in his recovery from his hamstring injury and is doubtful for Thursday's preseason game against the Colts. "Yesterday was not one of his better days in the rehab, so we’re still up and down there," head coach Mike McCarthy said. "I’m not counting on him this week."
Analysis: A sixth-round pick out of Buffalo this past spring, Starks is currently buried on the Packers depth chart. Continue to ignore him in standard Fantasy play.
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| 8/22/2010 |
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Starks comes off PUP
News: Packers RB James Starks, a rookie out of Buffalo, was removed from the PUP list Saturday and played in Green Bay's preseason win over the Seahawks. He did not have a carry, however.
Analysis: Starks isn't likely to get many carries, if any, in 2010, so remains just a rookie-only draft option or long-term Fantasy keeper.
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| 8/9/2010 |
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Starks back in fold soon?
News: Green Bay RB James Starks, a sixth-round pick who's on the PUP list, ran Monday for the first time on his bad hamstring and said it felt good. He's optimistic that he'll be able to take the conditioning test by the end of the week.
Analysis: Starks missed all of his senior season at Buffalo due to a shoulder injury, but rushed for over 1,000 yards both as a junior and sophomore. He will be competing for a spot behind starting RB Ryan Grant, and is worth a late-round pick in deeper rookie-only drafts.
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| 7/30/2010 |
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Hammy lands Starks on PUP
News: Packers rookie running back James Starks failed a physical examination on Friday and was placed on the PUP list. The sixth-round draft pick out of Buffalo is bothered by a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Starks missed all of his senior season at Buffalo due to a shoulder injury, but rushed for over a thousand yards both as a junior and sophomore. He will be competing for a spot behind starting RB Ryan Grant, and is worth a late-round pick in deeper rookie-only drafts.
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| 6/23/2010 |
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Packers ink rookie RB Starks
News: The Packers signed sixth-round pick James Starks, a running back from Buffalo, to a rookie contract. Starks will now make camp on-time and battle for a spot on the depth chart behind starter Ryan Grant.
Analysis: Starks missed all of 2009 with a shoulder injury but is considered an elusive North-South running back. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper rookie-only drafts.
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| 6/3/2010 |
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Starks still out with hamstring
News: Packers rookie RB James Starks remained out of practice Wednesday, which was the third straight practice he missed after tweaking his hamstring May 20.
Analysis: Starks will compete with Brandon Jackson to be a backup RB for Green Bay behind starter Ryan Grant. Keep an eye on how Starks does in training camp because he could be worth a late-round pick as a handcuff option for Grant.
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| 4/28/2010 |
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Starks, Quarless pad Packers' depth
News: The Packers added two skill-position players via the draft: Penn State TE Andrew Quarless (fifth round) and Buffalo RB James Starks (sixth round). Quarless is a character-risk TE with good size and only so-so versatility. Starks missed all of 2009 with a shoulder injury but is considered an elusive North-South running back.
Analysis: Both players will battle for roster spots in training camp this summer and neither is expected to post reliable stats on a consistent basis. Keep both off of Fantasy rosters; for those of you in long-term leagues, Starks is probably the safer bet with a late-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 12/31/1969 |
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News:
Analysis:
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