Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or James Cook

Tuesday, December 3, 10:38 PM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler (concussion) said on Tuesday that he's still dealing with concussion symptoms from the team's Week 12 loss to the division-rival Dallas Cowboys. Ekeler does not remember walking off the field until getting into an ambulance to take a trip to the hospital. It's similar memory loss that he experienced after a Week 3 concussion he suffered against the Cincinnati Bengals. In addition to his concussion symptoms, he has neck pain, which led to the team putting him on Injured Reserve. Ekeler has yet to pass the concussion protocol but hopes to clear that hurdle soon and is staying positive through his recovery. With Ekeler not eligible to come off IR until the Week 18 regular-season finale, he effectively becomes useless to fantasy managers that have their championship matchups in Week 17.

Friday, December 20, 3:57 PM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is a must-start RB1 for this weekend's fantasy football playoffs. The 25-year-old bounced back against Detroit last week (133 yards, two touchdowns) after a disappointing affair two weeks ago in Los Angeles (29 yards). Cook takes his momentum into a home matchup against New England. The Patriots have fielded a below-average rush defense all season. The Bills are favored by 14 points, which could lead to more rushing attempts for Cook and his backfield mates, Ray Davis and Ty Johnson.