Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Bucky Irving

Tuesday, August 19, 10:23 AM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler is still viewed as a "key" piece of the offense, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic. Earlier this week, reports suggested that the Commanders were actively looking to find a trade partner for running back Brian Robinson Jr. During training camp and the opening weeks of the preseason, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt has flashed immense upside and appears to be in the running to take the starting job over Robinson. Last season, Ekeler served as the primary third-down running back in the offense. While he missed five games, he was rather productive when on the field. During his first 10 games in D.C., Ekeler averaged a solid 12.3 PPR points per game with solid 5.1 YPC. Even if Robinson were to stay on the Commanders, Ekeler would likely have a significant role on passing downs. He is worth a look as a late-round depth RB as he could even carve out a more substantial role if Robinson were to be traded.

Sunday, August 17, 9:19 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving played the first three offensive drives during Saturday's preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Irving was one of the few offensive skill-position players to actually take the field on Saturday. The 22-year-old didn't have a ton of success as he rushed eight times for 12 yards on the ground. However, Irving made up for it with a 15-yard touchdown grab from Teddy Bridgewater. Irving is penciled in as the primary back in Tampa Bay with Rachaad White mixing in for carries as well.