The free agency class from last offseason will largely be remembered for the moves made at running back. Stars like Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Josh Jacobs were all on the move and have all found success in their new homes.
One back who may slip through the cracks for some fans is Tony Pollard. After a disappointing season with the Cowboys, Pollard moved on to Tennessee and has regained the explosive form that we saw in Dallas during the 2022 season. If the Titans as a team weren't struggling so mightily, we'd likely be discussing Pollard as one of the better pickups at running back this offseason.
Pollard has been playing well despite battling foot and ankle injuries for over a month. Let's check in to see if his most recent injury (ankle) will keep him sidelined in Week 15 against the Bengals.
WEEK 15 FANTASY FOOTBALL RANKINGS
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Will Tony Pollard play this week? Injury update on Titans' RB
Early in the week, things aren't looking great for Pollard this week. He has practiced sparingly throughout week, completely missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday while practicing as a limited participant on Friday. He didn't practice much during the week, but he's expected to suit up this weekend.
Titans RB Tony Pollard, listed as questionable for Sunday due to an ankle injury, is expected to play vs. the Bengals, per source. Pollard needs 63 more rushing yards for his third straight 1,000+-yard rushing season. pic.twitter.com/FBeTXuYPAx
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 15, 2024
Even though Pollard logged just one limited practice, it's not shocking to see that he's expected to play. Pollard has played following spotty practice participation throughout the year, including in Week 9 when he did not practice in any capacity but still played on Sunday.
Titans' RB Depth Chart: Who is Tony Pollard's Backup?
Coming into the year, the Tennessee coaching staff made it clear that they wanted to utilize two backs, Pollard and Tyjae Spears, this season. They have deviated from that plan, primarily utilizing Pollard in recent weeks. Pollard has pulled away from Spears, but the Titans will heavily lean on Spears if Pollard can't take the field.
Julius Chestnut has seen some snaps here and there and would likely be used to spell Spears at times. Ultimately, Chestnut won't be much of a contributor to the offense, regardless of whether Pollard is able to play.
Week 15 FANTASY FOOTBALL ROSTER MANAGEMENT
Lessons Learned | Stock Watch | Sleepers | Busts | Start 'Em, Sit 'Em | Usage Report
Tony Pollard fantasy outlook Week 15
As previously mentioned, Pollard has taken over a clear 1A role in this backfield in recent weeks. Even with Spears back in action, Pollard has played 67 percent of snaps and handled 78 percent of the backfield opportunities in the last two weeks. Based on volume alone, Pollard is a quality RB2 in fantasy.
This week offers a matchup where Pollard can thrive. The Bengals have struggled on defense in general and their run defense is no exception. Cincinnati has the No. 23 run defense overall and ranks 29th in EPA per rush. We've seen some explosive plays from Pollard this season and he should be able to rip off a couple of long ones against the Bengals. He's a high-end RB2 option in this matchup.
