NFL Player News

Redskins running back Matt Jones was limited in Wednesday practice, after which he said that he's taking his sprained toe "day by day," reports Tarik El-Bashir of CSN Mid-Atlantic.

Jones is dealing with some discomfort, as expected, but his ability to take part in drills indicates that he shouldn't miss any time. Of greater concern is his production of late, as he's followed up a 100-yard outing in Week 2 with a measly 69 yards at a clip of 2.4 yards per carry.

Gus Bradley said Wednesday that Jaguars running back Bernard Pierce is going through concussion protocol, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

The exact nature of the setback is not clear, but it leaves his status for Week 6 uncertain. It's not evident how much he will practice this week, but he will need to be cleared to take the field Sunday against the Texans.

Christine Michael could get the start at running back in Week 7 rather than Randle, ESPN Dallas reports.

The Cowboys are already switching quarterbacks during their bye week, and are apparently considering other major changes to the offense as well as they prepare to face the Giants next weekend. Randle has had a few big runs over the first five games but also plenty of negative yardage, and if he does give way to Michael his touches could dry up almost completely. The backfield picture should become clearer over the course of the week, but make sure you have Michael or another option stashed if you've been relying on Randle up to now.

Cowboys running back Christine Michael could get the start at running back in Week 7 rather than Joseph Randle, per ESPN Dallas.

The Cowboys are already switching quarterbacks during their bye week, and are apparently considering other major changes to the offense as well as they prepare to face the Giants next weekend. The backfield picture should become clearer over the coming days, but if you have a bench spot available, stashing Michael now could pay big dividends.

Michael had just two rushing attempts in two games this year, but owns a 4.8 yards-per-carry average over his career.

Buccaneers running back Charles Sims was in on 26 offensive plays in the Week 5 victory over the Jaguars, Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

The second-year pro saw his snaps drop notably below starting tailback Doug Martin for the first time in three weeks, but still managed to produce a key play with a dynamic 56-yard reception. The modest reduction in playing time notwithstanding, Sims is expected to continue to serve as an integral part of the Bucs offensive gameplans each week due to his versatile skill set.

Buccaneers running back Doug Martin received 41 snaps in Week 5 against the Jaguars, Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

The fourth-year tailback enjoyed a breakout, three-touchdown performance, and broke free of the recent playing time logjam between him and backfield mate Charles Sims. Martin was undeniably in a groove against the Jaguars, and the Bucs were obviously intent on riding the hot hand. Martin will look to continue his strong play in Week 7 against the Redskins after Tampa's Week 6 bye.

Cowboys running back Christine Michael carried the ball once for six yards in Sunday's loss to the Patriots.

Michael did not see an increased role in Dallas' offense following the injury to fellow back Lance Dunbar as the Cowboys seemed content with sticking to Joseph Randle and Darren McFadden. Dallas traded for Michael, who rushed for over five yards per carry in limited opportunities last season, to provide another option in a backfield without a sure thing. With Randle and McFadden, Week 3 aside, failing to set the world on fire, Michael may not be worth a pickup, but could be worth monitoring week to week.

Cardinals running back Andre Ellington is listed as the Cardinals' No. 2 running back in advance of Sunday's contest at Pittsburgh, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Ellington suffered a sprained PCL in Week 1 and subsequently logged three consecutive DNPs. His absence allowed Chris Johnson to take over the gig, as the veteran cruised to 405 rushing yards in the first five games. While Ellington returned Sunday in Detroit, he received just three carries, as opposed to 11 for Johnson and three for rookie David Johnson, including two goal-line reps.

Ellington is poised to take on a change-of-pace role behind workhorse Chris Johnson for now, but his weekly tallies will likely be dependent on taking efficient use of his mix of rushes and receptions.

Running back Chris Johnson is listed as the Cardinals' No. 1 running back in advance of Sunday's game at Pittsburgh, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

Since taking over for Andre Ellington in Week 1, Johnson has racked up 405 yards on the ground, which places him in a tie with Doug Martin and Devonta Freeman for second in the NFL. Ellington returned from his sprained PCL on Sunday, taking advantage of his three carries by ripping off a 63-yard touchdown run.

No matter, Johnson's performance has resulted in the top gig in the league's third-ranked rushing attack, a role that's afforded him more than 20 touches twice and more than 16 per contest this season.

Running back Raheem Mostert was released by the Dolphins on Tuesday, according to his agent.

Mostert will reportedly be signed to the practice squad, assuming he clears waivers. The undrafted rookie had an impressive preseason with the Eagles and might have a future as a return man and backup running back.