Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Boston Scott

Wednesday, September 3, 4:27 PM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler was once again deployed as the team's RB1 during practice on Wednesday. During a QB/RB drill, JP Finaly of NBC4 reported that Ekeler was given the first opportunity, while seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt followed him. Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez Jr. followed behind him as the third and fourth running backs. Earlier in the week, Ekeler was listed first on the team's depth chart, and his usage during Wednesday's practice seems to solidify his role as the lead option. During his debut season in Washington, Ekeler served as the primary pass-catching back, but was still very effective on the ground, posting a 4.8 YPC. Given his projected role, Ekeler carries RB2 upside in PPR leagues and strong flex value in standard formats facing the New York Giants in Week 1.

Tuesday, November 26, 6:08 PM

The Washington Commanders have brought in free agent running backs James Robinson and Boston Scott for workouts. The Commanders are thin at running back with Austin Ekeler (concussion) and Brian Robinson Jr. (ankle) both exiting the team's Week 12 loss to the Dallas Cowboys with injuries. Robinson and Scott have both enjoyed success in the past. Robinson most recently played in one game for the Green Bay Packers in 2023 while providing depth on their practice squad. He is known for rushing for 1,070 yards and seven touchdowns as an undrafted rookie running back in 2020. Scott spent the first six years of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. He spent time on the practice squads of both the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. Both players are quality backs that would provide a steady veteran presence in the locker room. Neither would move the needle much in fantasy. Instead, fantasy managers should turn to Jeremy McNichols as insurance in the Commanders' backfield.