Who Should I Start? A.J. Dillon or Damien Martinez

Wednesday, July 23, 9:39 PM

Philadelphia Eagles running back AJ Dillon was seen taking first team reps during the first day of training camp on Wednesday. It's only the beginning of camp, but it is interesting to see Dillon getting first team snaps over Will Shipley. Dillon was brought in on a one-year deal this offseason to replace Kenneth Gainwell who departed in free agency. Dillon did not play last season due to a neck injury, but appears to be at full health again. He posted three seasons with 600 rushing yards or more during his time with the Green Bay Packers. The 27-year-old is certainly capable of being a viable backup to Saquon Barkley. Neither Dillon nor Shipley figure to have weekly value with Barkley healthy, but both could be on the radar if Barkley ever misses time. Whoever wins the backup job could be a solid stash option.

Friday, August 8, 8:50 AM

Seattle Seahawks running back Damien Martinez made his preseason debut on Thursday against the Raiders, but he worked well behind George Holani, who seems to have the early lead in the competition for the third running back spot in Seattle. Martinez ran for just 10 yards on his six carries and caught both his targets for 15 more yards. He added 25 yards on two kickoff returns as well. The seventh-round pick out of Miami has stepped up in pass coverage and as a receiver, which was a question mark for him coming into the draft. However, Holani seems to be firmly ahead of him on the depth chart. Martinez will look to make more of an impact and earn a roster spot in the next two weeks as the Seahawks face the Chiefs and Packers in their other two preseason contests.