Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Chris Rodriguez Jr.

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, January 2, 10:50 AM

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. has been a productive player across 12 games this season, recording 435 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 96 carries. However, the 25-year-old has been in-and-out of his team's lineup in recent weeks, missing Week 15 with a groin injury and Week 17 with an illness. In his absence, Rodriguez Jr. may have had his role in the Washington backfield usurped by rookie back Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Over the last three weeks, Croskey-Merritt has racked up 224 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 37 carries. Rodriguez Jr. is expected to return for Washington's Week 18 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, and he'll likely still see some touches. However, the Commanders may opt to split touches between Rodriguez Jr. and Croskey-Merritt evenly, or ride the hot hand with the rookie.