Before we get to the biggest ailments at running back, wide receiver and tight end, a quick bit of self-promotion.

In today's News-Herald, we broke down the current NFL quarterback landscape from a fantasy perspective. Here is the link.

On to the updates, which don't include Tony Romo, but do feature two guys named Pierre.

-- Colts running back Joseph Addai is doubtful because of a neck injury, leaving Donald Brown and Mike Hart to share the carries. If Brown, who has been limited because of a hamstring injury, is active (and he is expected to be), he is the better play. Hart, however, is the safest play because of Brown's iffy status and the fact the former Michigan standout has 22 carries for 93 yards and a TD in his last two games.

The Colts don't play until Monday night, which complicates things. Their opponent, the Texans, have allowed six rushing touchdowns in as many games.

-- Rams running back Steven Jackson was limited at practice Friday because of a finger injury. He expects to play against the Panthers, maybe because he knows they are allowing 128.5 rushing yards per game. If Jackson is active (the Rams play at 1 p.m. Sunday, so time isn't an issue), he's a must-start.

-- The news isn't as positive regarding Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams, who is doubtful with a foot injury. Jonathan Stewart owners should hope Williams sits, since Stewart would finally get the majority of the carries. If Williams is out, Stewart should be a considered a No. 2 fantasy back.

-- Saints running back Pierre Thomas will sit again because of ankle injury, but impressive rookie Chris Ivory will have the unfortunate task of trying to pile up yards on the Steelers. Pittsburgh is the league's best run defense, allowing 63.7 rushing yards per game and 2.7 yards per carry. Ivory is better suited to be a flex play, but since six teams are off this weekend, you might be forced to play him as your No. 2 back. If you have two decent options at running back and three effective receivers who aren't on a bye, I'd sit Ivory.

-- Colts receiver Austin Collie is out, as expected, making Pierre Garcon a must-play against Houston, which is allowing a league-high 306 passing yards per game. If you're desperate for receiving help, consider Indy's Anthony Gonzalez, who is slated to play for the first time since Week 1 and should benefit from a Colts offense that will be without Collie and tight end Dallas Clark. Gonzalez is available in more than 96 percent of the leagues on ESPN.com.

-- With both Malcom Floyd and Legedu Naanee doubtful for the Chargers because of hamstring injuries, Patrick Crayton again is worth starting. The former Cowboy has 13 receptions for 199 yards the last two weeks.

-- Patriots receiver Deion Branch is questionable with a hamstring injury. Since the Pats play the Vikings at 4:15 Sunday, he's probably not worth the risk.

-- Cardinals receiver Steve Breaston (knee) is expected to play for the first time since Week 3. I'd wait a week to see how Breaston performs, but Larry Fitgerald owners should be encouraged.

-- Tight ends Antonio Gates (toe) of the Chargers, Zach Miller (foot) of the Raiders and Chris Cooley (foot) of the Redskins are all questionable, but are in line to start.