Week 6 vs. Jacksonville
Jordan Howard is getting nearly every touch in Chicago's backfield, and he's been extremely productive. In consecutive starts, Howard has gone over 110 rushing yards. He's even been a factor in the passing game, including a touchdown reception last week.
This week he'll face a Jaguars defense that has allowed some big performances from backs this season. Jacksonville hasn't really shut anyone down so far, so we expect Howard will take full advantage.
Considering the number of touches he gets, and the stats he produces with those touches, Howard is a must-start RB1 option this week.
Week 5 vs. Indianapolis
Jordan Howard became the first Bears running back to rush for 100+ yards in his starting debut since Matt Forte in 2008. What does that mean exactly? It means Chicago might just have found its replacement for the veteran after losing him this offseason.
Howard totaled 132 yards last week while filling in for an injured Jeremy Langford. He didn't score a touchdown, but that will come in time.
We're big fans of Langford this week as he draws a favorable matchup against the Colts. Indianapolis has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing backs, and Howard will get plenty of touches to take advantage. He should be viewed as an RB1 play.
Week 4 vs. Detroit
In the preseason, it looked like Jordan Howard was buried on the depth chart, but now he's set to start for the Bears. Jeremy Langford will be missing some time due to injury, which means the rookie back will take over starting duties.
Howard looked good last week, finishing with 92 total yards. He's a threat in the passing game, as he caught four of his six targets, and he's a dangerous runner.
Howard will get a good matchup this week as the Lions have allowed over 100 yards to rushers in back-to-back weeks. The Lions are allowing 5.1 yards per carry, which is the highest in the league. Howard should be viewed as a strong RB2.
Fantasy Upside
Jordan Howard is a tough, physical runner who put up incredible numbers in college. The Bears selected Howard in the fifth round of the draft and many expect him to share the backfield with Jeremy Langford as a compliment.
Coach John Fox has a history with using multiple backs, and having a purpose for each rusher. Considering Howard's style, it's possible he could become a short-yardage or goal-line back.
Fantasy Downside
While Twitter analysts expect Howard to back up Langford, the Bears don't see it that way. In the team's first released depth chart, Howard backed up Ka'Deem Carey and Jacquizz Rodgers. He also didn't see field action in the team's first preseason game until after those two.
Bottom Line
Howard has a natural running style, and could be a productive back in the future, but it might take some time before the Bears put him on the field.
