Who Should I Start? A.J. Dillon or DJ Giddens

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.

Tuesday, July 29, 12:53 AM

Indianapolis Colts running back DJ Giddens has had a strong start to training camp and looks like the RB2 behind workhorse Jonathan Taylor. Giddens has ripped off a few highlights on cutback runs as the pads have come on in practice. Head coach Shane Steichen has provided glowing reviews of the team's 2025 fifth-round pick, saying, "he's kind of a glider." He continues gushing about his burst and vision, as well as his ability to thrive on outside zone runs. The Kansas State product is seen as a potential third-down back who has the ability to be dynamic as a runner and as a receiver out of the backfield, with Steichen noting his "natural" hands. As part of a really strong 2025 running back class, Giddens has a strong collegiate profile with a career 6.0 yards per carry at Kansas State. He is one of the more valuable handcuffs in fantasy this year behind Jonathan Taylor.