What to do with Leonard Fournette, Ronald Jones in the divisional round of the 2021 NFL playoffs

Sunday will see Tom Brady reacquaint himself with the divisional round of the playoffs as he takes his Tampa Bay Buccaneers there for the first time. While Brady appears fully ready for the game, some questions linger regarding the other members of the team’s backfield.

Fantasy Football analysis: Bucs RB Leonard Fournette ($4,900), Ronald Jones ($5,200)

Ronald Jones enters the weekend officially listed on the injury report with quad and finger injuries. Jones missed practice completely on Wednesday but returned in a limited capacity for Thursday and Friday. The third-year back’s progress bodes well for his availability Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, which would mark his career playoff debut.

Meanwhile, Leonard Fournette comes off a strong showing in his first postseason appearance with the Buccaneers, rushing 19 times for 93 yards and a score. Fournette’s workload would remain heavy should Jones sit out again but could quickly shrink otherwise. Head coach Bruce Arians said Fournette would start the game, but if Jones is good to go, Jones would “get his normal reps.”

The New Orleans Saints, the Bucs’ opponent this weekend, have defended the run very well this season, allowing an average of roughly 74 yards and half a touchdown to opposing tailbacks. However, the last time these two teams faced off, Tampa Bay had only four rushing attempts, a modern NFL record.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

Start Jones if healthy.

Sit Fournette if Jones is active for the game