Who Should I Start? Alexander Mattison or A.J. Dillon

Thursday, March 13, 9:35 PM

Former Las Vegas Raiders running back Alexander Mattison is signing an undisclosed deal on Thursday with the Miami Dolphins, sources told FOX Sports' Jordan Schultz. Earlier in the day, former Dolphins RB Raheem Mostert signed with the Raiders in free agency. The 26-year-old Mattison joined the Raiders in 2024 after spending his first five years in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings. He eventually took over the lead-back role from a disappointing Zamir White and carried the ball 132 times for 420 yards and four touchdowns (a career-low 3.2 yards per tote) in 14 games (seven starts), adding a career-high 36 catches for 294 yards and another score. Mattison's move to Miami is a big downgrade, as he'll merely be competing for a change-of-pace role with Jaylen Wright behind unquestioned starter De'Von Achane. He'll be avoidable in most fantasy drafts this fall.

Sunday, July 13, 8:38 PM

According to Geoff Mosher of the Philly Voice, Philadelphia Eagles running back AJ Dillon (neck) isn't a lock to make the team's 53-man roster. Saquon Barkley had an MVP-caliber year in 2024, and he is expected to continue handling the bulk of the snaps out of the backfield. With Kenneth Gainwell signing with the Steelers during the offseason, the Eagles had a void to fill behind Barkley. Most assumed that Dillon, who inked an agreement with Philly in March, would automatically occupy the No. 2 spot this season. However, that may not be the case, with Mosher mentioning the ascension of Will Shipley after strong showings during OTAs. There are still some things Shipley needs to improve, specifically, his size and strength. All things considered, Barkley should leave little room for anyone else to get involved from a fantasy standpoint, so Dillon and Shipley should only draw draft consideration for insurance purposes. Still, as of now, it appears it is Dillon's job to lose, although he may need to step it up throughout training camp. The 27-year-old appeared in 60 regular-season contests for the Packers, amassing 2,428 yards and 16 touchdowns on the ground. He also had 86 catches for 763 yards and two touchdowns. Unfortunately, Dillon missed all of last season due to a neck injury, which will be another thing to monitor this summer.