Having trouble finding a running back during these lean times? Tell me about it. Giants RB Brandon Jacobs is going to start on one of my teams.

Finding a running back this late in the season is akin to finding a Raiders fan who does not wear spiked shoulder pads. Sure, they exist, you just need to know where to look.

There is a fantasy sleeper out there I am willing to tell you about, but you have to promise not to tell anybody else. Are you ready? Oh, yes, the name is in the headline. Well, since the surprise is ruined, the sleeper name to watch out for is Packers RB James Starks.

Do not feel bad if you have not heard of him.

Starks has not played a game since January 2008, but the Packers have huge hopes for the rookie out of Buffalo. In fact, many believe that the Packers did not chase after Marshawn Lynch because they are so enthralled with Starks. Although that seems a bit optimistic, considering that the Packers have not even seen Starks in pads yet.

Starks is currently on the PUP list, but he is expected to come off next week when TE Jermichael Finley is likely to be added to the IR.

But somehow when you read Starks’ story you cannot help but think back to Ryan Torain‘s rookie season in 2008, when there was an unmeasured hype around his debut. And then he went out, had one great half against Cleveland and then was not heard from again until this season.

So you have to curb your enthusiasm about Starks just a touch. But what the heck, if you have roster space, why not take a gamble?

– Adam Rank

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