The future of Felix Jones (1 Viewer)

[twheeler]

Felix has a ton of potential, but hasn't yet realized it. After last week's stinker of a game, his value is probably at an all-time low. I have a hard time keeping track of the likely short- and long-term outcome of the 3-headed RBBC monster in Dallas, and would like to better understand it before deciding to swoop in on dejected owners. Any input from homers about what we can expect from the future?

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Felix has a ton of potential, but hasn't yet realized it. After last week's stinker of a game, his value is probably at an all-time low. I have a hard time keeping track of the likely short- and long-term outcome of the 3-headed RBBC monster in Dallas, and would like to better understand it before deciding to swoop in on dejected owners. Any input from homers about what we can expect from the future?

Talent always wins in the end.

 

[BigTex]

HOLD, his chance is coming soon.

 

[Max Power]

I'm a former Felix owner who is thinking about buying again...

I sold because I thought he was too fragile. He still might be, but thats another issue. Jones has put on some weight since being drafted. 200lbs at the combine, tipping the scale at 220 now. The weight gain should help his durability, but I think he has lost a step because of it. Now instead of being a guy who can take it to the house anytime he touches the ball, he looks more like a back who needs 12-18 touches a game for that homerun.

So until he is getting more touches on a weekly basis, or shows more big play ability at 220, he is a hard guy to start. Now the fact that he is only 23 and has shown he can play with the big boys make him an interesting pickup.

Hes a buy, but he is also a stash for now. Just have to hope the owners asking price isn't too high.

 

[hip80]

Well I'm not a homer, but I can say I just dropped him in two leagues. I've owned him in years past waiting for the light bulb to come on somewhere so he can do what we all know he can do. The one play I remember was when he broke a nice, long run down the sideline, got me really excited, got knocked out of bounds awkwardly, and came up gimpy. Didn't return to the game.

If Choice was not in the mix in Dallas, (and actually getting snaps), I'd hold. Unfortunately, I feel like the greatest potential Felix has is to tease us with his ability, only to get 7-8 snaps a game and/or get hurt, and end up rotting on my bench all year. It doesn't seem to matter much anymore that Jerry (and most of the fans) love him. And I think even if Barber and/or Choice gets hurt, clearing a path for more snaps for Felix, it's only a matter of time before he gets dinged up as well.

Just my , I'm sure now that I've given up on him and cut him, he'll have a career year!

 

[duaneok66]

I'm a former Felix owner who is thinking about buying again...I sold because I thought he was too fragile. He still might be, but thats another issue. Jones has put on some weight since being drafted. 200lbs at the combine, tipping the scale at 220 now. The weight gain should help his durability, but I think he has lost a step because of it. Now instead of being a guy who can take it to the house anytime he touches the ball, he looks more like a back who needs 12-18 touches a game for that homerun.So until he is getting more touches on a weekly basis, or shows more big play ability at 220, he is a hard guy to start. Now the fact that he is only 23 and has shown he can play with the big boys make him an interesting pickup. Hes a buy, but he is also a stash for now. Just have to hope the owners asking price isn't too high.

wow - 20 lbs??? No wonder he doesn't look the same . . .

 

[gary mexico]

I dropped him yesterday in my redraft league. We only can keep 3 or 4 RB's due to 14 man rosters and picked up lynch for him. I cant deal with his 7-8 carries a game. I dont see how that changes anytime soon....

 

[qimqam]

I'm a former Felix owner who is thinking about buying again...

I sold because I thought he was too fragile. He still might be, but thats another issue. Jones has put on some weight since being drafted. 200lbs at the combine, tipping the scale at 220 now. The weight gain should help his durability, but I think he has lost a step because of it. Now instead of being a guy who can take it to the house anytime he touches the ball, he looks more like a back who needs 12-18 touches a game for that homerun.

So until he is getting more touches on a weekly basis, or shows more big play ability at 220, he is a hard guy to start. Now the fact that he is only 23 and has shown he can play with the big boys make him an interesting pickup.

Hes a buy, but he is also a stash for now. Just have to hope the owners asking price isn't too high.

How would added weight help hamstring and knee injuries?

 

[ldizzle]

I dropped him yesterday in my redraft league. We only can keep 3 or 4 RB's due to 14 man rosters and picked up lynch for him. I cant deal with his 7-8 carries a game. I dont see how that changes anytime soon....

Did u pick up lynch in the slight hope he gets traded? Otherwise what upside does lynch have in that putrid offense plus what woudl make u think he's gonna get more carries than jones?Jones is a hold right now. Its only week 3 plus dallas just got back its 2 olineman...

 

[The_Underachiever]

Its not just a RBCC there but also terrible calling by Jason Garrett. Wade also seems completely lost and is a really sub-par coach. If Barber were to go down, Felix would definitely be better then he is now fantasy wise, but the running game would probably still suck.

 

[Max Power]

I'm a former Felix owner who is thinking about buying again...

I sold because I thought he was too fragile. He still might be, but thats another issue. Jones has put on some weight since being drafted. 200lbs at the combine, tipping the scale at 220 now. The weight gain should help his durability, but I think he has lost a step because of it. Now instead of being a guy who can take it to the house anytime he touches the ball, he looks more like a back who needs 12-18 touches a game for that homerun.

So until he is getting more touches on a weekly basis, or shows more big play ability at 220, he is a hard guy to start. Now the fact that he is only 23 and has shown he can play with the big boys make him an interesting pickup.

Hes a buy, but he is also a stash for now. Just have to hope the owners asking price isn't too high.

How would added weight help hamstring and knee injuries?

Just injuries in general, but thats why he put on the weight.

 

[gary mexico]

I dropped him yesterday in my redraft league. We only can keep 3 or 4 RB's due to 14 man rosters and picked up lynch for him. I cant deal with his 7-8 carries a game. I dont see how that changes anytime soon....

Did u pick up lynch in the slight hope he gets traded? Otherwise what upside does lynch have in that putrid offense plus what woudl make u think he's gonna get more carries than jones?

That and I have spiller. Felix is unstartable with only 7 carries a game and I dont see that changing anytime soon. Lynch atleast is getting carries....

 

[HurryUpSundays]

Its been 3 years since a Dallas back has made a true fantasy impact... Now is certainly the time to buy low on Felix or MB3, but I just don't see the upside coming anytime soon. Throw Choice into that mix?

I'll pass.

 

[CaptainHook]

when ive seen him this year he looks really slow

 

[simmonjm]

Felix is still fast as ever, but lately he has been getting hit in the backfield before accelerating. Once the offensive line gets thier act together and decides to block he will be a viable RB again. Even with as bad as the season has been, he still has been 1 block away from breaking 1-2 tds.

 

[basher]

Felix is still fast as ever, but lately he has been getting hit in the backfield before accelerating. Once the offensive line gets thier act together and decides to block he will be a viable RB again. Even with as bad as the season has been, he still has been 1 block away from breaking 1-2 tds.

If this is what you are waiting for ... you might have a long wait

 

[Judge Smails]

It's not just play calling. These guys get so many penalties that they are in 1st and 15, 2nd and 20, etc all the time. Not the best run situations. Yes, the O-line needs to block better, Garrett needs to be more creative with play calling - but bottom line these penalties have to be minimized before the run game has any chance..

 

[twheeler]

It's not just play calling. These guys get so many penalties that they are in 1st and 15, 2nd and 20, etc all the time. Not the best run situations. Yes, the O-line needs to block better, Garrett needs to be more creative with play calling - but bottom line these penalties have to be minimized before the run game has any chance..

Useful stuff. (a) is this hopeless, or just a matter of time before the team running game comes around?(b) is Felix's injury concern overblown? Will he ever be a workhorse? If so, why do you think that?

 

[Max Power]

It's not just play calling. These guys get so many penalties that they are in 1st and 15, 2nd and 20, etc all the time. Not the best run situations. Yes, the O-line needs to block better, Garrett needs to be more creative with play calling - but bottom line these penalties have to be minimized before the run game has any chance..

Useful stuff. (a) is this hopeless, or just a matter of time before the team running game comes around?(b) is Felix's injury concern overblown? Will he ever be a workhorse? If so, why do you think that?

He will be the Lee Evans of the runningback world. His end of year stats will be respectable thanks to 2-3 monster games, but its a game you dont really want to play if you can avoid it.

 

[Kowskull]

It's not just play calling. These guys get so many penalties that they are in 1st and 15, 2nd and 20, etc all the time. Not the best run situations. Yes, the O-line needs to block better, Garrett needs to be more creative with play calling - but bottom line these penalties have to be minimized before the run game has any chance..

This ^^^^ This and This again^^^^^^

 

[BigA]

pretty sure he's getting traded to denver

 

[Ridgelake]

There are a few things here, most of which have been touched on by others.

1) He looks materially slower than previous years. He's put on too much weight.

2) Dallas' o-line hasnt been run blocking well so far this year. Also, since they've been trailing a lot, they havent run the ball much late. Almost every RB is better in the 2nd half than first. Dallas hasnt had that opportunity this year.

3) This year, all 3 backs are getting reps. No one is fantasy viable except in deep leagues. Even with 2 guys healthy, its not likely to be a great situation fantasy wise.

4) The oline is the major weakness of this team. They have 4 starters over 30. They will turn over this position very soon. But this year, they are stuck with what they've got.

The combination of these factors means he's not likely to be fantasy viable in a re-draft this year. But for dynasty, there are a few more salient points:

5) Barber (and Roy Williams) will be gone next year. They both make way too much for their productivity. With Barber gone, Felix becomes the 1st and 2nd down back. Choice likely remains the 3rd down back next year.

6) I have every idea we'll be hearing in the offseason how Felix realizes he put on too much weight and is trimming down to regain his quickness and acceleration. He will regain his explosiveness.

6) Everyone has an opinion about his injuries. My take is that he's likely to be like Fred Taylor. It took Fred some time to figure out how to take care of his body. But he went on to be rather durable the last half of his career. Felix strikes me as a similar guy. He was healthy in college. His injuries have not been major. They've largely been flukey. He's the type of back that doesnt take a lot of contact relative to many. Like I said, everyone has their opinion on his health. I think he'll get it figured out and be healthy in future years.

8) It may take more than 1 year, but the oline will get remade.

Felix is still finding his way in this league. He's still learning his body. The coaches are still learning how to best employ him. He is still rather young. His situation this year makes him likely not much use for redraft.

But dynasty, watch out. We all know how talented the guy is. He and the team will get it all figured out. Just not this year.

 

[Hellfire Snail]

There are a few things here, most of which have been touched on by others.1) He looks materially slower than previous years. He's put on too much weight.2) Dallas' o-line hasnt been run blocking well so far this year. Also, since they've been trailing a lot, they havent run the ball much late. Almost every RB is better in the 2nd half than first. Dallas hasnt had that opportunity this year.3) This year, all 3 backs are getting reps. No one is fantasy viable except in deep leagues. Even with 2 guys healthy, its not likely to be a great situation fantasy wise.4) The oline is the major weakness of this team. They have 4 starters over 30. They will turn over this position very soon. But this year, they are stuck with what they've got.The combination of these factors means he's not likely to be fantasy viable in a re-draft this year. But for dynasty, there are a few more salient points:5) Barber (and Roy Williams) will be gone next year. They both make way too much for their productivity. With Barber gone, Felix becomes the 1st and 2nd down back. Choice likely remains the 3rd down back next year.6) I have every idea we'll be hearing in the offseason how Felix realizes he put on too much weight and is trimming down to regain his quickness and acceleration. He will regain his explosiveness.6) Everyone has an opinion about his injuries. My take is that he's likely to be like Fred Taylor. It took Fred some time to figure out how to take care of his body. But he went on to be rather durable the last half of his career. Felix strikes me as a similar guy. He was healthy in college. His injuries have not been major. They've largely been flukey. He's the type of back that doesnt take a lot of contact relative to many. Like I said, everyone has their opinion on his health. I think he'll get it figured out and be healthy in future years.8) It may take more than 1 year, but the oline will get remade.Felix is still finding his way in this league. He's still learning his body. The coaches are still learning how to best employ him. He is still rather young. His situation this year makes him likely not much use for redraft.But dynasty, watch out. We all know how talented the guy is. He and the team will get it all figured out. Just not this year.

:X Nice write-up.

 

[n20]

There are a few things here, most of which have been touched on by others.1) He looks materially slower than previous years. He's put on too much weight.2) Dallas' o-line hasnt been run blocking well so far this year. Also, since they've been trailing a lot, they havent run the ball much late. Almost every RB is better in the 2nd half than first. Dallas hasnt had that opportunity this year.3) This year, all 3 backs are getting reps. No one is fantasy viable except in deep leagues. Even with 2 guys healthy, its not likely to be a great situation fantasy wise.4) The oline is the major weakness of this team. They have 4 starters over 30. They will turn over this position very soon. But this year, they are stuck with what they've got.The combination of these factors means he's not likely to be fantasy viable in a re-draft this year. But for dynasty, there are a few more salient points:5) Barber (and Roy Williams) will be gone next year. They both make way too much for their productivity. With Barber gone, Felix becomes the 1st and 2nd down back. Choice likely remains the 3rd down back next year.6) I have every idea we'll be hearing in the offseason how Felix realizes he put on too much weight and is trimming down to regain his quickness and acceleration. He will regain his explosiveness.6) Everyone has an opinion about his injuries. My take is that he's likely to be like Fred Taylor. It took Fred some time to figure out how to take care of his body. But he went on to be rather durable the last half of his career. Felix strikes me as a similar guy. He was healthy in college. His injuries have not been major. They've largely been flukey. He's the type of back that doesnt take a lot of contact relative to many. Like I said, everyone has their opinion on his health. I think he'll get it figured out and be healthy in future years.8) It may take more than 1 year, but the oline will get remade.Felix is still finding his way in this league. He's still learning his body. The coaches are still learning how to best employ him. He is still rather young. His situation this year makes him likely not much use for redraft.But dynasty, watch out. We all know how talented the guy is. He and the team will get it all figured out. Just not this year.

Agreed... Very well put.

 

[NatronIsMean]

I'm a former Felix owner who is thinking about buying again...

I sold because I thought he was too fragile. He still might be, but thats another issue. Jones has put on some weight since being drafted. 200lbs at the combine, tipping the scale at 220 now. The weight gain should help his durability, but I think he has lost a step because of it. Now instead of being a guy who can take it to the house anytime he touches the ball, he looks more like a back who needs 12-18 touches a game for that homerun.

So until he is getting more touches on a weekly basis, or shows more big play ability at 220, he is a hard guy to start. Now the fact that he is only 23 and has shown he can play with the big boys make him an interesting pickup.

Hes a buy, but he is also a stash for now. Just have to hope the owners asking price isn't too high.

How would added weight help hamstring and knee injuries?

If it's 20 lbs of muscle it will certainly help the body put less pressure on ligaments. JFYI-

 

[BigDave]

As a fan I get frustrated to no end with the play calling by the red headed genious.

We seemed to have gone from a team that pounds the ball and opens up the play action plays to

a finnese team with gadget plays. Stop the F ing gadget plays.

Barber starts out strong last week. Keep Barber going and Felix will break long runs as defenses get softened up.

This week they'll be playing from behind, so don't expect much running from one back or the other.

Same old crap this week.

Can someone tell me why Wade looks like he's taking a crap on the sideline every time the camera is on him?

Oh that's right, he's crapping after every holding call/offsides/missed block....

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

I think you're seeing exactly who he is, he's a RBBC type of running back. I can remember the day he was drafted, the talk on that draft show that he was a RBBC type guy but can deliver the occasional home run. He's like a Reggie Bush type guy. If you remember, Reggie was drafted very high his first year or two in the league, especially in PPR leagues but owners started to realize he's a RBBC guy and that's just the way it is. He'll have an occasional blow up game but when that may be nobody really knows. I think F. Jones is that type of guy. In 2 or 3 years he'll still be this RBBC guy, a decent player to have on your real football team but hardly a RB you can draft and be able to count on as your weekly starter.

The coaches of all of these teams really aren't all stupid. If Jones was the guy that could just turn everything around by pounding the rock with him, they would give him the ball. He's not, he's a guy when given some blocking 12 to 15 times a game could be very good. He's also good at catching screen and things like that but he's no Barry Sanders, the guy needs some blocking and right now the Dallas line hasn't provided that.

 

[switz]

I think you're seeing exactly who he is, he's a RBBC type of running back. I can remember the day he was drafted, the talk on that draft show that he was a RBBC type guy but can deliver the occasional home run. He's like a Reggie Bush type guy. If you remember, Reggie was drafted very high his first year or two in the league, especially in PPR leagues but owners started to realize he's a RBBC guy and that's just the way it is. He'll have an occasional blow up game but when that may be nobody really knows. I think F. Jones is that type of guy. In 2 or 3 years he'll still be this RBBC guy, a decent player to have on your real football team but hardly a RB you can draft and be able to count on as your weekly starter.

The coaches of all of these teams really aren't all stupid. If Jones was the guy that could just turn everything around by pounding the rock with him, they would give him the ball. He's not, he's a guy when given some blocking 12 to 15 times a game could be very good. He's also good at catching screen and things like that but he's no Barry Sanders, the guy needs some blocking and right now the Dallas line hasn't provided that.

I was with you up to the bolded line. Nothing about the way Dallas uses their RBs indicates they are smart.I'd go into detail about why Jones isn't an RBBC back, but I believe that will just be evident as his career unfolds.

 

[Football Jones]

Felix Jones is going to be a FF stud...at some point. I have no idea when that'll be, but he's still very young (23).

If there's ever a player to be patient with while you're waiting on him to start producing, it's Felix.

BTW, the injury stuff is WAY overblown for various reasons.

Patience, Grasshopper.

 

[packersfan]

The Cowboys got back to Barber as the primary RB with Felix in a change-of-pace role and won their first game of the season in the process. I'm not sure that should be viewed as a coincidence. Felix had a nice YPC and would have had an even better day if it wasn't for an Austin penalty but if today's game is any indication of the way the Cowboys want to go with their running game going forward it's looking more and more like Barber as a RB3 with RB2 upside and Felix as a RB4/5. Barber got the touches today and he's the guy near the goal line. If the Cowboys aren't going to use Felix in the passing game (and so far this season they really haven't - 0 catches today), he's going to be next-to-impossible to start unless Barber gets hurt. I think Dallas re-discovered a winning formula today and I'd be surprised if they abandon it coming out of the Week 4 bye.

 

[Go deep]

The Cowboys got back to Barber as the primary RB with Felix in a change-of-pace role and won their first game of the season in the process. I'm not sure that should be viewed as a coincidence. Felix had a nice YPC and would have had an even better day if it wasn't for an Austin penalty but if today's game is any indication of the way the Cowboys want to go with their running game going forward it's looking more and more like Barber as a RB3 with RB2 upside and Felix as a RB4/5. Barber got the touches today and he's the guy near the goal line. If the Cowboys aren't going to use Felix in the passing game (and so far this season they really haven't - 0 catches today), he's going to be next-to-impossible to start unless Barber gets hurt. I think Dallas re-discovered a winning formula today and I'd be surprised if they abandon it coming out of the Week 4 bye.

What are you basing this on? You obviously didnt watch the game. Barber had 9 carries on the last 2 drives when was the game was essentially over. The Cowboys didnt use the backs any different than they have been, except this time they were protecting the lead in the 4th quarter.

 

[packersfan]

The Cowboys got back to Barber as the primary RB with Felix in a change-of-pace role and won their first game of the season in the process. I'm not sure that should be viewed as a coincidence. Felix had a nice YPC and would have had an even better day if it wasn't for an Austin penalty but if today's game is any indication of the way the Cowboys want to go with their running game going forward it's looking more and more like Barber as a RB3 with RB2 upside and Felix as a RB4/5. Barber got the touches today and he's the guy near the goal line. If the Cowboys aren't going to use Felix in the passing game (and so far this season they really haven't - 0 catches today), he's going to be next-to-impossible to start unless Barber gets hurt. I think Dallas re-discovered a winning formula today and I'd be surprised if they abandon it coming out of the Week 4 bye.

What are you basing this on? You obviously didnt watch the game.

I watched the game. You're right - Barber was the "closer." He also continues to get the goal-line looks. Jones was basically used as a change-of-pace option today and while he did well from a fantasy perspective I'm not sure how anyone can feel very good about him right now. He's not going to get carries the Cowboys are ahead, he's not starting and he's not involved in the passing game. Is there something about his role in the offense at the present time that lends one to having confidence in him?

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

I think you're seeing exactly who he is, he's a RBBC type of running back. I can remember the day he was drafted, the talk on that draft show that he was a RBBC type guy but can deliver the occasional home run. He's like a Reggie Bush type guy. If you remember, Reggie was drafted very high his first year or two in the league, especially in PPR leagues but owners started to realize he's a RBBC guy and that's just the way it is. He'll have an occasional blow up game but when that may be nobody really knows. I think F. Jones is that type of guy. In 2 or 3 years he'll still be this RBBC guy, a decent player to have on your real football team but hardly a RB you can draft and be able to count on as your weekly starter.

The coaches of all of these teams really aren't all stupid. If Jones was the guy that could just turn everything around by pounding the rock with him, they would give him the ball. He's not, he's a guy when given some blocking 12 to 15 times a game could be very good. He's also good at catching screen and things like that but he's no Barry Sanders, the guy needs some blocking and right now the Dallas line hasn't provided that.

I was with you up to the bolded line. Nothing about the way Dallas uses their RBs indicates they are smart.I'd go into detail about why Jones isn't an RBBC back, but I believe that will just be evident as his career unfolds.

He is a RBBC back though. Felix is dynamic, shifty, a very good talent but he's not a guy who can give a team 25 carries a game, 16 games a season for a career.Could he go 25 carries next week and look good....sure. Could he do it again, probably. But eventually he would break down, he needs a change of pace guy like a Barber. Felix Jones could be effective as a fantasy player if the Cowboys could block better but right now it's not pretty even though it was a little better today.

J. Best is the same way in Detroit. He's not a every down back either but Detroit has used him as one and he will get dinged. He will be best used 10 to 12 times a game on the ground with a few passes with a different guy who can poiund the 3rd and 2's. I think the Cowboys use Felix well, they're just not blocking very well too see his true potential.

 

[EBF]

The Cowboys made a big mistake when they gave MB3 that big contract a few years ago. They never should have paid him like a franchise RB. Now they have to justify their investment by keeping him involved in the offense even though he really doesn't bring any dynamic skills to the table.

Felix Jones has done well with the opportunities that he's been given. He's about 220 pounds, so I don't think it's a foregone conclusion that he's incapable of handling a bigger workload. Whether or not the Cowboys ever give him that chance remains to be seen.

 

[Go deep]

I think you're seeing exactly who he is, he's a RBBC type of running back. I can remember the day he was drafted, the talk on that draft show that he was a RBBC type guy but can deliver the occasional home run. He's like a Reggie Bush type guy. If you remember, Reggie was drafted very high his first year or two in the league, especially in PPR leagues but owners started to realize he's a RBBC guy and that's just the way it is. He'll have an occasional blow up game but when that may be nobody really knows. I think F. Jones is that type of guy. In 2 or 3 years he'll still be this RBBC guy, a decent player to have on your real football team but hardly a RB you can draft and be able to count on as your weekly starter.

The coaches of all of these teams really aren't all stupid. If Jones was the guy that could just turn everything around by pounding the rock with him, they would give him the ball. He's not, he's a guy when given some blocking 12 to 15 times a game could be very good. He's also good at catching screen and things like that but he's no Barry Sanders, the guy needs some blocking and right now the Dallas line hasn't provided that.

I was with you up to the bolded line. Nothing about the way Dallas uses their RBs indicates they are smart.I'd go into detail about why Jones isn't an RBBC back, but I believe that will just be evident as his career unfolds.

He is a RBBC back though. Felix is dynamic, shifty, a very good talent but he's not a guy who can give a team 25 carries a game, 16 games a season for a career.Could he go 25 carries next week and look good....sure. Could he do it again, probably. But eventually he would break down, he needs a change of pace guy like a Barber. Felix Jones could be effective as a fantasy player if the Cowboys could block better but right now it's not pretty even though it was a little better today.

J. Best is the same way in Detroit. He's not a every down back either but Detroit has used him as one and he will get dinged. He will be best used 10 to 12 times a game on the ground with a few passes with a different guy who can poiund the 3rd and 2's. I think the Cowboys use Felix well, they're just not blocking very well too see his true potential.

What makes him different than any other RB in the league? Any RB that gets 20+ touches a game will get dinged up. Thats doesnt mean you should limit his touches to 12-15.

 

[switz]

The Cowboys got back to Barber as the primary RB with Felix in a change-of-pace role and won their first game of the season in the process. I'm not sure that should be viewed as a coincidence. Felix had a nice YPC and would have had an even better day if it wasn't for an Austin penalty but if today's game is any indication of the way the Cowboys want to go with their running game going forward it's looking more and more like Barber as a RB3 with RB2 upside and Felix as a RB4/5. Barber got the touches today and he's the guy near the goal line. If the Cowboys aren't going to use Felix in the passing game (and so far this season they really haven't - 0 catches today), he's going to be next-to-impossible to start unless Barber gets hurt. I think Dallas re-discovered a winning formula today and I'd be surprised if they abandon it coming out of the Week 4 bye.

What are you basing this on? You obviously didnt watch the game.

I watched the game. You're right - Barber was the "closer." He also continues to get the goal-line looks. Jones was basically used as a change-of-pace option today and while he did well from a fantasy perspective I'm not sure how anyone can feel very good about him right now. He's not going to get carries the Cowboys are ahead, he's not starting and he's not involved in the passing game. Is there something about his role in the offense at the present time that lends one to having confidence in him?

They rotated series, they didn't go back to anything. I think you are jumping to conclusions based on very little "evidence" from one game. For instance, they didn't use ANY RBs much in the passing game, so maybe it's not about one player they don't "trust." Nine of Barbers carries came in the closer role, so unless you think the Cowboys will routinely be blowing people out, it's unreasonable to suggest today's carry differential will be consistent moving forward. Barber also had a pretty awful YPC before he played closer role today, so it's unlikely he's going to take back the lions share of carries while it's a contest moving forward.Basically today's game said nothing about the future of Felix Jones. All we learned was that Barber is the closer, which we mostly had assumed already.

Wait until after the BYE ... Hopefully the OL will be healthy, and we'll bd better able to gauge what the Boys will plan for the RBs.

ETA - they haven't yet this year, as far as I can recall, pulled Felix from a series when they got near the GL. So even stating that Barber is the GL RB is supposition this year. Just like we assumed he'd be the closer if that situation wax needed, we can assume he's the GLl RB, there's just no evidence yet this year.

 

[packersfan]

I expect the Cowboys to be playing from the front or in a lot of close games in the fourth quarter. Should that happen, that means Barber's potential is higher to get more carries. Combine that with his role near the goal line and in my opinion he's the Dallas RB to own and start now as a RB3. In my opinion, Felix can't be started in any league and is droppable in shallow leagues or ones with tight roster limits if there are productive players available on the WW. Holding him and hoping for a Barber injury (which is the only way I see Jones having value) is a luxury many teams may not be able to afford.

 

[switz]

I expect the Cowboys to be playing from the front or in a lot of close games in the fourth quarter. Should that happen, that means Barber's potential is higher to get more carries. Combine that with his role near the goal line and in my opinion he's the Dallas RB to own and start now as a RB3. In my opinion, Felix can't be started in any league and is droppable in shallow leagues or ones with tight roster limits if there are productive players available on the WW. Holding him and hoping for a Barber injury (which is the only way I see Jones having value) is a luxury many teams may not be able to afford.

Wow... Just wow. Well, we'll see over the course of the season how good your advice is. But I'll bet you'll be eating your words in the not too distant future. I think you're really overreacting.

 

[packersfan]

I expect the Cowboys to be playing from the front or in a lot of close games in the fourth quarter. Should that happen, that means Barber's potential is higher to get more carries. Combine that with his role near the goal line and in my opinion he's the Dallas RB to own and start now as a RB3. In my opinion, Felix can't be started in any league and is droppable in shallow leagues or ones with tight roster limits if there are productive players available on the WW. Holding him and hoping for a Barber injury (which is the only way I see Jones having value) is a luxury many teams may not be able to afford.

Wow... Just wow. Well, we'll see over the course of the season how good your advice is. But I'll bet you'll be eating your words in the not too distant future. I think you're really overreacting.

Could be. I like him as a talent but fantasy football is about production and Felix isn't producing. Like I said, it comes down to each particular team. If you have Felix in a shallow league or one with tight roster limits, holding him and hoping for a Barber injury may not be a move you can make.

 

[Go deep]

I expect the Cowboys to be playing from the front or in a lot of close games in the fourth quarter. Should that happen, that means Barber's potential is higher to get more carries. Combine that with his role near the goal line and in my opinion he's the Dallas RB to own and start now as a RB3. In my opinion, Felix can't be started in any league and is droppable in shallow leagues or ones with tight roster limits if there are productive players available on the WW. Holding him and hoping for a Barber injury (which is the only way I see Jones having value) is a luxury many teams may not be able to afford.

I would still rather have Jones than Barber.

 

[Chaka]

The Cowboys got back to Barber as the primary RB with Felix in a change-of-pace role and won their first game of the season in the process. I'm not sure that should be viewed as a coincidence. Felix had a nice YPC and would have had an even better day if it wasn't for an Austin penalty but if today's game is any indication of the way the Cowboys want to go with their running game going forward it's looking more and more like Barber as a RB3 with RB2 upside and Felix as a RB4/5. Barber got the touches today and he's the guy near the goal line. If the Cowboys aren't going to use Felix in the passing game (and so far this season they really haven't - 0 catches today), he's going to be next-to-impossible to start unless Barber gets hurt. I think Dallas re-discovered a winning formula today and I'd be surprised if they abandon it coming out of the Week 4 bye.

What are you basing this on? You obviously didnt watch the game.

I watched the game. You're right - Barber was the "closer." He also continues to get the goal-line looks. Jones was basically used as a change-of-pace option today and while he did well from a fantasy perspective I'm not sure how anyone can feel very good about him right now. He's not going to get carries the Cowboys are ahead, he's not starting and he's not involved in the passing game. Is there something about his role in the offense at the present time that lends one to having confidence in him?

They rotated series, they didn't go back to anything. I think you are jumping to conclusions based on very little "evidence" from one game. For instance, they didn't use ANY RBs much in the passing game, so maybe it's not about one player they don't "trust." Nine of Barbers carries came in the closer role, so unless you think the Cowboys will routinely be blowing people out, it's unreasonable to suggest today's carry differential will be consistent moving forward. Barber also had a pretty awful YPC before he played closer role today, so it's unlikely he's going to take back the lions share of carries while it's a contest moving forward.Basically today's game said nothing about the future of Felix Jones. All we learned was that Barber is the closer, which we mostly had assumed already.

Wait until after the BYE ... Hopefully the OL will be healthy, and we'll bd better able to gauge what the Boys will plan for the RBs.

ETA - they haven't yet this year, as far as I can recall, pulled Felix from a series when they got near the GL. So even stating that Barber is the GL RB is supposition this year. Just like we assumed he'd be the closer if that situation wax needed, we can assume he's the GLl RB, there's just no evidence yet this year.

What we know is that MB has a defined role when the Cowboys have a lead and no one else really has anything defined in any other situation.Advantage Barber.

 

[switz]

What we know is that MB has a defined role when the Cowboys have a lead and no one else really has anything defined in any other situation.Advantage Barber.

How much of an advantage that is depends on how frequently the Cowboys are blowing someone out in the 4th. Given the first two games, I'm not too sure that's a big advantage.

 

[Ariakis]

I think even if MB3 goes away somehow (injury, trade, cut in the offseason, etc) we'll still never see Felix as a 20+ touch starter. I'd rather have Choice next year in a standard league who I think should be given his chance eventually. Felix may be more explosive but Choice can be a sustainer. MB3 looked decent today but I just don't see the explosiveness. To be honest I'm not sure any of the 3 will ever be a RB1 so as much as I'd love to see one work out I'd probably sell at this point.

As for this season Felix will be a change of pace guy ... MB3 will be the starter and finisher (keep the lead guy). Choice may actually be the catch up guy killing the value of the other two.

 

[packersfan]

What we know is that MB has a defined role when the Cowboys have a lead and no one else really has anything defined in any other situation.Advantage Barber.

It looks like Barber and Jones both have defined roles. Barber is the starter, the goal-line RB and the guy they want to give the ball to when they have a lead in the fourth quarter. That means he is the RB with the best potential to get 10-15 carries a game. Jones is the No. 2 RB who they want to give 7-8 carries a game too and maybe a catch or two every few games. Seems pretty cut and dried so far and barring an injury to Barber I'm not sure the Cowboys will deviate from that plan and give Jones more touches.

 

[Chaka]

What we know is that MB has a defined role when the Cowboys have a lead and no one else really has anything defined in any other situation.Advantage Barber.

How much of an advantage that is depends on how frequently the Cowboys are blowing someone out in the 4th. Given the first two games, I'm not too sure that's a big advantage.

Why do they have to be blowing them out for them to try and run out the clock in the 4th? All they need is a lead and that's how they'll play it.

 

[Go deep]

What we know is that MB has a defined role when the Cowboys have a lead and no one else really has anything defined in any other situation.Advantage Barber.

How much of an advantage that is depends on how frequently the Cowboys are blowing someone out in the 4th. Given the first two games, I'm not too sure that's a big advantage.

Why do they have to be blowing them out for them to try and run out the clock in the 4th? All they need is a lead and that's how they'll play it.

Teams that are winning by 6 points with 9 minutes left in the 4th quarter are not trying to run the clock, they are trying to score.

 

[davearm]

As a fan I get frustrated to no end with the play calling by the red headed genious.

You gotta spell it right if you're going to use it, genius.

 

[davearm]

I expect the Cowboys to be playing from the front or in a lot of close games in the fourth quarter. Should that happen, that means Barber's potential is higher to get more carries. Combine that with his role near the goal line and in my opinion he's the Dallas RB to own and start now as a RB3. In my opinion, Felix can't be started in any league and is droppable in shallow leagues or ones with tight roster limits if there are productive players available on the WW. Holding him and hoping for a Barber injury (which is the only way I see Jones having value) is a luxury many teams may not be able to afford.

Wow... Just wow. Well, we'll see over the course of the season how good your advice is. But I'll bet you'll be eating your words in the not too distant future. I think you're really overreacting.

It seems awfully clear that Jones is coming up short in the opportunity half of the fantasy football value equation. And I'm not sure why anyone would predict a radical change in that situation anytime soon. We've got a few years' worth of empirical evidence now: 23 games, 168 rush, 25 rec = 8.4 touches per game.

 

[Go deep]

Hid value is certainly at an all time low. In one of my dynasty leagues, i tried desperately to get Jones from a guy during the summer. He wouldnt even discuss it, telling me he valued him almost as much as Chris Johnson.

He traded him for Lagarette Blount yesterday.

 

[Football Jones]

Do not give up on Felix if you own him. Sometimes we don't understand why teams do things, but one thing is for certain, Felix Jones has immense potential.

Hang tough. Felix is just 23 & will get his shot to be a feature back. And he can excel in that role. Felix is one of the best dynasty buys in FF if his owner is willing to move him (at a reasonable price).