Several running backs potentially missing time this week due to injuries and another six teams on a bye will again make setting fantasy lineups particularly challenging for Week 7. We already know that Browns RBs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt will be inactive due to injuries on Thursday night against the Broncos, but there are a few other RB injury situations that we’ll all have to monitor as Week 7 kickoffs approach.

Seahawks

There’s a chance that the Seahawks, who already have lead back Chris Carson on the IR, may be forced to play their Week 7 matchup against the Saints without his backup, Alex Collins, this week. Collins is dealing with glute and hip injuries, and his Week 7 game day status is unclear as this article is being written. Rashaad Penny is expected back from the IR this week and could play a significant role in the Seahawks’ backfield this week.

WFT

Washington Football Team primary back Antonio Gibson (shin/calf) underwent an MRI and could be sidelined for Week 7. J.D. McKissic would get an automatic boost should Gibson be inactive, but Jaret Patterson who posted a 6.1 college career YPC, could be a sneaky play this week as well.

Ravens

Ravens RB Latavius Murray is dealing with an ankle injury and his Week 7 status up in the air. With Murray, Le’Veon Bell and Devonta Freeman each rushing for a TD last week and Ty’Son Williams seemingly inactive every other week selecting the best Ravens RB to start on a weekly basis is a complete dart throw. Avoid this backfield if possible.

Bears

With Damien Williams (COVID-19) unofficially questionable for Week 7, Khalil Herbert may once again have the opportunity to be the team’s bell cow back on Sunday. Herbert, who as we’ve mentioned is a Bears head coach Matt Nagy favorite, is averaging just over 18 carries per game and 4.65 YPC over the past two weeks. Based on his recent performance he’ll still likely have a role in the Bears backfield even after David Montgomery is activated from the IR, but he’s really going to be tested against a tough Bucs run defense this week.

Chiefs

With Clyde Edwards-Helaire (knee) out for at least the next two games Darrel Williams, who played 72% of the Chiefs’ offensive snaps, should continue to be the Chiefs’ workhorse back for the short term. Williams’ 2.95 YPC was far from impressive, but he was able to move the ball when it counted. He rushed for two TDs on Sunday, scoring from two and three yards out. Edwards-Helaire has yet to score a rushing TD and has lost two fumbles so far this season. If Williams, who has fumbled the ball just once in his four-year career, continues to be able to get in the end zone, he might be able to carve out a role as the Chiefs’ goal line and short yardage specialist. With his power running style and sure hands Williams would be the thunder that comes after Edwards-Helaire’s lightning.