With S-Jax hobbled, is it time to pick up Jacquizz Rodgers? The experts weight in…

In case you missed it, news broke today from NFL.com that Steven Jackson could be out of action for 2-4 weeks with a thigh injury. Of course, “could be” isn’t exactly definitive but given Jackson’s injury history, it’s probably a good time to look at alternatives if you’re a S-Jax owner. Obviously, there could also be an opportunity here if you’re an owner of *any* team in need of some RB help. Given that waivers are running tonight in most leagues, we thought we’d ask a few featured experts to give us their take on the situation under the assumption that Jackson misses some time. Check it out:

Q: Should owners try to grab Jacquizz Rodgers, Jason Snelling or neither off waivers? Is either a better option than James Stark as an add?

Mike Clay | @MikeClayNFL | Pro Football Focus

If I’m looking to replace Steven Jackson in my lineup over the next couple of weeks, I’m targeting – but not overspending on – Jacquizz Rodgers. Following Jackson’s exit from Sunday’s game, Rodgers filled in with 38 snaps, while Jason Snelling worked 28. Rodgers handled a majority of the carries, but Snelling was able to equal him in targets (and has quietly seen nine percent of Matt Ryan’s targets through two weeks). Rodgers and Snelling were actually on the field together 12 times, but it was Rodgers playing tailback on a majority of those snaps. Snelling will be heavily involved and steal targets and goal line work, but Rodgers figures to be looking at 12-plus carries and upwards of a half dozen targets. Between the two, he’s the add, but know that he’s barely a top-25 fantasy back. Of course, if James Starks is also available, he should be your top waiver claim. With John Kuhn dealing with a hamstring injury and Johnathan Franklin not yet ready play a meaningful role, Starks will be a workhorse for Green Bay over the coming weeks. A candidate for 18-22 touches in an elite scoring offense, Starks is in the RB2 conversation. – Verdict: Jacquizz Rodgers (Atlanta Target), James Starks (Better Target)

Kevin Roberts | @NFLSoupKevin | NFL Soup

With Jackson out, Jacquizz Rodgers stands to hold the most value at RB in Atlanta, but he’s not necessarily a guy you have to go snatch up. Jason Snelling will likely steal short-yardage and possibly goal-line carries, while Rodgers simply hasn’t been an impressive runner in the NFL, having never averaged more than 3.9 yards per carry in his two seasons (now three). You’re much better off chasing down James Starks for week three, as Atlanta figures to simply be more pass-happy with S-Jax out. – Verdict: Jacquizz Rodgers (Atlanta Target), James Starks (Better Target)

Chet Gresham | @Chet_G | The Fake Football

All three have limited upside, but I’d rank them James Starks, Jason Snelling, then Jacquizz Rodgers. Much depends on your league and needs, but there have been many running backs plagued with injuries early in the season, so I could see grabbing all three. Snelling showed on Sunday that he has ability, but Rodgers came in before him, so I’d say we’ll be looking at a time share there. Snelling should see all goal line looks, which is a big plus in that offense. Rodgers has shown time and again that he’s not the guy. He would be the desperation add for me. Starks is still ahead of Snelling because there is always a chance that a brain injury can linger for many weeks and that offense is around the goal line often and it doesn’t look like Johnathan Franklin will be cutting into his time much. Of course Lacy could be back next week, so it’s a gamble and why I’d steer clear of using a #1 waiver priority or a big chunk of FAAB on him. – Verdict: Jason Snelling (Atlanta Target), James Starks (Better Target)

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Thanks to Mike, Kevin and Chet for giving us their rapid reaction on the Steven Jackson injury update. If you’re looking for additional insight into setting your rosters, be sure to check out our Rest-of Season rankings and Week 3 rankings. We also have additional Waiver Wire advice available.