Jamaal Charles Fantasy Football Update: Chiefs Star Likely Won’t Start Opener Vs. Chargers

Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles still is getting up to full speed after suffering a torn ACL for the second time in his NFL career last season.

ESPN Chiefs reporter Adam Teicher recently provided an update on Charles’ status for KC’s Week 1 matchup with the San Diego Chargers, and it’s not an optimistic one.

.@adamteicher on Charles in week 1: "If he plays it won't be alot…he certainly won't be the starter." #Chiefs

— Fantasy Sports Radio (@SiriusXMFantasy) September 1, 2016

This isn’t good news for fantasy football owners of Charles, many of whom likely selected him in the first two rounds of their fantasy drafts.

Charles didn’t receive a single carry in four preseason games, so even if he does play in the regular-season opener, it might take him a while to get used to punishing contact and full game speed again.

The Chiefs don’t have to rush Charles back into the offense, either. Kansas City has plenty of depth at running back with Charcandrick West and Spencer Ware proving last season that they could be capable replacements with 10 combined rushing touchdowns. Knile Davis could get some carries, too.

Charles should be benched in most fantasy leagues for Week 1, especially ones using non-PPR scoring. He’s an OK flex option in 12- to 14-team leagues, but that’s about it.

The bottom line is Charles isn’t likely to have enough touches, both as a runner and receiver, to make a meaningful fantasy impact against the Chargers.

Thumbnail photo via Denny Medley/USA TODAY Sports Images