Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or D'Andre Swift


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
8.0 33.7 0.3 1.2 9.9 0.1

Austin Ekeler News

How Much is Left in the Tank for Austin Ekeler?

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.


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
11.5 46.3 0.5 2.0 15.4 0.1

D'Andre Swift News

D'Andre Swift Saves Job with Productive Season?

Tuesday, March 3, 5:16 AM

Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift faced strong competition from rookie Kyle Monangai during the 2025 NFL season, but he managed to hold onto his lead-back role thanks to a productive campaign of his own. Swift benefited from new head coach Ben Johnson's offense, ultimately finishing the year with 1,087 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns, both career highs. He also caught 34 passes for 299 yards and another touchdown through the air. Swift's snap share had dipped to just above 50% by the end of the season. Still, over the final six weeks, he had 13.5 carries per game, 1.7 receptions per game, and five total touchdowns. Monangai had a strong season of his own and should take on a bigger role next year, but Swift showed that he deserves to continue to lead this backfield, at least for the time being. He'll need to continue playing well to fend off Monangai in his second season. Swift is still an attractive RB2 option in redraft leagues, but the eventual threat of Monangai taking over -- even if not imminent -- makes the veteran running back a sell-high candidate in most dynasty formats.


Austin Ekeler vs. D'Andre Swift

Still trying to decide between Ekeler and Swift? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Austin Ekeler is projected to score 8.0 points this week while D'Andre Swift is projected to score 11.5 points.