Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Chuba Hubbard

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.

Thursday, September 4, 10:09 AM

The Carolina Panthers don't plan to "run Chuba Hubbard dry" early in the season, per ESPN's David Newton. This shouldn't come as a surprise, as Hubbard set career highs in carries and receptions last year, averaging nearly 20 attempts per game before missing the final two contests with a calf injury. Carolina added depth to the backfield this offseason, signing 2024 1,000-yard rusher Rico Dowdle and drafting Trevor Etienne in the fourth round, signaling more of a committee approach in 2025. Still, Hubbard enters the season as the clear lead back on what could be a breakout offense under Bryce Young. While his volume may dip slightly, his role as the top option keeps him firmly in the fantasy RB2 mix.