Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Bhayshul Tuten

Tuesday, February 10, 9:31 AM

Pending free agent running back Austin Ekeler signed a two-year deal with the Washington Commanders before the 2024 season, but has struggled with injuries since. The 30-year-old back managed fewer than 70 offensive snaps in 2025 before a devastating Achilles injury ended his season in Week 2. While his touchdown numbers have dropped precipitously from his fantasy glory days with the Chargers, he continued to prove himself a valuable part of the Commanders' passing game. With almost a full year of recovery before the start of the 2026 season and a work ethic second to none, it should come as no surprise if he signs a minimal short-term deal when free agency opens in March, potentially carving out a dedicated third-down role. While his RB1 days are clearly behind him, he could represent a next-to-nothing dynasty buy with the occasional spike week still in his future.

Friday, February 6, 10:51 AM

A fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Jacksonville Jaguars running back Bhayshul Tuten flashed high-end upside at points throughout his rookie season. The 22-year-old's overall stat line does not jump off the page, as he finished the year with 386 scrimmage yards and seven touchdowns on 93 touches across 15 games played. However, Tuten spent the year behind Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. on the depth chart. While Jacksonville may choose to re-sign him, Etienne Jr. is now set to hit unrestricted free agency and might command a pricy contract on the open market after producing nearly 1,400 scrimmage yards and 13 touchdowns in 2025. If the Jaguars let Etienne Jr. walk, Tuten may be in line to take on the team's RB1 role in 2026. Between Etienne Jr. 2025 and Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving in 2024, Jacksonville head coach and play-caller Liam Coen has proven the ability to manufacture high-value seasons for his running backs. Given the potential opportunity for him in Jacksonville, Tuten should be a player whose value is on the rise in dynasty fantasy formats.