Buddy

Howell Jr.

No surprises here. Howell has played six offensive snaps this season.

Howell was also elevated prior to Week 3 and logged 17 snaps on special teams, failing to play a single snap on offense even though Darrell Henderson was ruled out. It’s possible Howell is active in place of Jake Funk on Sunday if only for the former’s role on special teams.

The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue reports that this could be an indication of Darrell Henderson’s status for Sunday. Howell would provide the Rams with a third active running back if Henderson can’t play. Sony Michel would likely get the start with Jake Funk operating as the third down back if Henderson is rule out, which seems increasingly likely.

An impending restricted free agent, Howell is being brought back for less than the “low” tender of $2.13 million, though his new deal reportedly includes guaranteed money. It’s not a bad tradeoff for a fringe talent who heads into his age-25 campaign with only 21 career carries. With 45 appearances over the past three years, Howell’s special teams value will probably secure his 53-man roster spot.

There’s nothing to see here. Howell entered the game in pure garbage time in the Texans’ 29-point road defeat. Unless beat reports say otherwise, Duke Johnson will be the starting running back whenever David Johnson misses.

Howell didn’t see any touches after Duke Johnson (ankle) left in the third quarter. The Texans went with Howell over UDFA Scottie Phillips on their initial 53-man roster, but special teams likely played a role. Phillips is the higher upside hedge for Johnson.

An UDFA out of Florida Atlantic, Howell had a strong preseason for the Dolphins, rushing 14 times for 76 yards (5.42 YPC) and scoring a touchdown in the finale. Like most waiver claims, Howell probably isn’t long for the 53-man roster, but he has landed in one of the league’s weakest backfields. He’s a name to file away in the deepest of Dynasty leagues.