Eddie Lacy Injury: Timetable For Packers RB’s Return; Fantasy Impact

Fantasy football owners held their breath when Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy was carted off the field because of an ankle injury suffered in the first quarter of Sunday night’s game against the Seattle Seahawks.

X-rays on Lacy’s ankle didn’t show any break, but we still don’t know how many games, if any, he’ll miss with his injury.

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Lacy is a Tier 1 running back in every fantasy league, so his absence, however long it might be, would be a huge loss for fantasy owners. It’s still too early to trade him, though. If it’s a short-term issue, there won’t be any reason to make a major trade.

The Packers are expected to go with James Starks as the starting running back if Lacy isn’t able to play Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs on “Monday Night Football.” Green Bay’s third string running back Alonzo Harris is not worth a pickup.

Starks ran for 95 yards on 20 carries against the Seahawks in Lacy’s absence and will benefit from being in a well-balanced offense capable of scoring a ton of points regardless of the opponent. Kansas City ranks 10th in the league in rushing yards allowed, so Starks should only be started as a flex option in deep leagues. He also doesn’t add much to the passing game, so owners in PPR league should hesitate before playing him.

Fantasy owners of Lacy who don’t also own Starks will need to search the waiver wire for replacements. Click on the link below for the best options available.

UPDATE (Monday, 4 p.m. ET): NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Lacy’s injury is minor, and he could play Week 3 versus Kansas City.