James White Status as Out Today Gives Rise to Rex Burkhead Fantasy Outlook Against Jets in Week 3

In Week 3, the New England Patriots face off against their division rival New York Jets. Despite the drama surrounding the team, the Patriots are still favored by 21 points, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, which parallels a few popular fantasy options from New England this week as well.

James White Status for Playing Today

However, the Patriots made the surprising announcement Sunday morning that their most talented pass-catching running back in James White would be inactive and not playing today, giving a big boost in fantasy value to Rex Burkhead.

Luckily, the announcement of White's status had nothing to do with injury or troubling allegations, which is something that can't be said about former Patriots' WR Antonio Brown. Rather, White's wife is reportedly expected to give birth today, so he will not be with the team.

The Patriots' other primary pass-catching running back, Burkhead, is expected to see a big boost in snaps and value with the absence of White. Through two games this season, Burkhead has seen 13 carries for 65 yards and no scores, and he has caught 7-of-10 targets for 88 yards, averaging 8.8 yards per target.

His role has been more of a hybrid, playing 35 snaps in the backfield and 14 split out as a WR. With White out and New England cutting another pass-catcher in Antonio Brown on Friday, Burkhead may play a big role in the passing game today against the Jets.

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