Fantasy

11/28/23

2 min read

2023 Fantasy Football: How to Handle Zack Moss With Jonathan Taylor Injured

Zack Moss carries the ball vs. Carolina Panthers
Indianapolis Colts running back Zack Moss (21) runs through an opening defended by Carolina Panthers defensive tackle LaBryan Ray (93) during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

With Indianapolis Colts RB Jonathan Taylor needing thumb surgery, Zack Moss again becomes a big name in fantasy football. While Taylor was sidelined early in the season, Moss saw 66 carries and eight targets over a three-game span. 

Needless to say, Moss is a factor when Taylor is out. Through the first five weeks of the season, Moss was third in the league in rushing despite only seeing carries in four games. When Taylor returned, Moss ran for 165 yards with two scores on 23 carries against the Tennessee Titans; during this four-game stretch, Moss exceeded 100 yards on the ground twice. 

If Moss is on Waivers

If you are a fringe fantasy playoff team with any running back or flex needs, Moss warrants a max FAAB bid or first overall waiver priority this late in the season. You could reasonably approach a max bid on Moss — regardless of your situation — because difference-makers are hard to come by this late in the year.

Another reason to be aggressive on Moss is that if Taylor has any kind of setback, the Colts have an appealing schedule through the fantasy playoffs. In a worst-case scenario, Moss is a high-priority stash if Taylor returns on time.

If You Already Have Moss

For situations such as this one, we reserve several bench spots for running backs who are one injury away from becoming a factor in fantasy. If you already have Moss, you’re operating from a position of strength. 

If you can still trade in your league, you should target teams with Taylor or a void at running back. You can acquire a player to put you over the top in those scenarios.

If you can’t trade, you simply have another viable option at running back or flex. Our fantasy rankings will be updated throughout the week to help you figure out who you should play Moss over.


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