Rex Burkhead

The Texans signed former New England Patriots RB Rex Burkhead to a contract on Tuesday.

Fantasy Impact

Burkhead signs with Houston and joins a crowded backfield that includes David Johnson, Mark Ingram, Phillip Lindsay, and Dontrell Hilliard. He underwent knee surgery on December 1st but is progressing well in his recovery. The 30-year-old RB rushed for 274 yards and three touchdowns on 67 attempts across 10 games for the Patriots in 2020. He also hauled in 25 receptions for 192 yards and three touchdowns. Burkhead’s signing with the Texans gives fantasy managers another reason to avoid Houston’s backfield altogether.

Zack Cox of NESN writes that it "remains to be seen" whether RB Rex Burkhead will be back with the Patriots.

Fantasy Impact

Burkhead underwent knee surgery in December but has already been cleared for agility drills. New England recently re-signed James White and they still have Damien Harris and Sony Michel on the roster, which makes it seem like a long shot that Burkhead returns as well.

Patriots' RB Rex Burkhead (knee) confirmed that his season is over, per source.

Fantasy Impact

Burkhead was an emerging weapon in the Patriots' backfield, seeing his role expand in both the ground game and aerial attack resulting in six total touchdowns for the veteran running back. RB Damien Harris and James White will now see an increase in carries, with White likely being the beneficiary of targets in the Patriots' passing game. RB Sony Michel also returns from IR in Week 12 and could earn some carries against the Cardinals' defense.

The Patriots fear RB Rex Burkhead tore his ACL in Sunday’s Week 11 loss to the Texans.

Fantasy Impact

Burkhead exited Sunday’s loss to the Texans early with a knee injury, and the Patriots fear he tore his ACL. The 30-year-old RB will undergo an MRI to confirm. Burkhead is most likely done for the year and he will rehab during the off-season to be ready for the 2021 campaign. Look for Damien Harris, Sony Michel and James White to lead the Patriots backfield while Burkhead is sidelined.

Patriots RB Rex Burkhead (knee) has been ruled out for the rest of Week 11 against the Texans.

Fantasy Impact

Burkhead injured his knee on a second half toss play. He totaled six touches for 12 yards before departing. Damien Harris and James White will handle all backfield touches from here on out.