Fantasy Football Player Notes

Last week, Raheim Sanders took over the early down role for Cleveland, finishing with 12 touches and 46 total yards. Sanders didn't manage any explosive runs, but he had a 7% missed tackle rate and 2.86 yards after contact per attempt. If Dylan Sampson is active, he could operate as Cleveland's bellcow, or he could take over the passing-down work while also having a prominent early-down role. Sanders is a risky flex play if Sampson is active, but he could be an RB2/3 if Sampson is out. Since Week 12, Pittsburgh has allowed the 13th-most rushing yards per game, the seventh-highest explosive run rate, and the 13th-highest rushing success rate.

Dylan Sampson could be Cleveland's lead back this week. He has been listed as questionable (hand) after practicing on a limited basis all week. Among 66 qualifying backs, Sampson ranks 25th in explosive run rate, ninth in missed tackle rate, and 26th in yards after contact per attempt. Sampson is a solid volume-driven flex play this week that could easily push for 15-20 touches. Since Week 12, Pittsburgh has allowed the 13th-most rushing yards per game, the seventh-highest explosive run rate, and the 13th-highest rushing success rate.