Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Bhayshul Tuten

Sunday, January 26, 6:46 PM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler tallied just 32 all-purpose yards during their loss in the NFC Championship game to the Philadelphia Eagles. Ekeler also lost a fumble. The Commanders were playing from behind throughout most of the contest, putting their rushing attack out of the game plan. However, even when Ekeler was given the ball through the air, he could not perform. He caught five of his seven targets but tallied just 17 yards. His seven targets tied him the second-most on the team, only behind tight end Zach Ertz. Throughout the season, the 29-year-old operated primarily as a change-of-pace option in the Washington backfield. Entering Sunday, Ekeler posted a strong 10.3 yards per catch and a 4.8 yards per carry. Ekeler will likely remain in this role next season as he enters the final year of his contract.

Tuesday, June 24, 7:28 PM

NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports that the Jacksonville Jaguars have agreed to terms with rookie fourth-round running back Bhayshul Tuten on a four-year contract. The financial terms were not divulged. The Virginia Tech product is a bit undersized (5-foot-9), but exhibits tantalizing athletic ability and could push for a significant role in Jacksonville's offense this season. It won't be easy, with returning backfield mates Tank Bigsby and Travis Etienne in the fold. Still, neither really separated himself from the other over a disappointing 2024 for the organization. Furthermore, Tuten is far and away the most explosive back of the trio and offers a three-down skill set. Playing time could be sparse early on, but if the rookie adjusts to the league quickly, he could hold some sleeper appeal in what projects to be an exciting offense.