Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or J.K. Dobbins

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.

Friday, September 5, 9:59 AM

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins is the starter on the team's first depth chart ahead of rookie second-rounder RJ Harvey heading into Sunday's Week 1 regular-season opener against the Tennessee Titans. While many expect Harvey to eventually take over lead-back duties in 2025, head coach Sean Payton has a soft spot for veterans, and Dobbins will play a key role in Denver's backfield. Dobbins played in only nine games from 2021-23 with Baltimore due to injuries, but he had a career-best 905 rushing yards and nine touchdowns with the Chargers last year. Facing a Titans team that was very vulnerable on the ground a year ago, Dobbins will have RB3/flex value in Week 1 for fantasy managers, although the presence of Harvey definitely will lower his ceiling. With Harvey struggling in pass protection in camp, Dobbins should be Denver's go-to back on third downs as well.