Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Jonathan Taylor

Monday, September 22, 12:34 PM

Although Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. wasn't all that efficient (3.5 yards per carry) in his 2025 debut in the team's 41-24 blowout win over the visiting Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, he did lead the team with 11 carries. Rodriguez was a healthy scratch the first two weeks, but he was elevated to the active roster for Week 3 after Austin Ekeler tore his Achilles in Week 2. The 24-year-old ran for 39 yards on his 11 carries and was not utilized in the passing game. Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt was second on the team with eight carries, and he, too, was inefficient with just 26 yards on the ground. Jeremy McNichols and quarterback Marcus Mariota combined for 10 rushing attempts and two touchdowns against the Raiders. Croskey-Merritt has the most upside in the Commanders' backfield moving forward with Ekeler done for the year, but Rodriguez is worth a waiver-wire pickup if you have JCM rostered or are looking for RB depth. Rodriguez is currently rostered in only 5% of Yahoo leagues.

Friday, December 12, 10:30 PM

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor has had a stellar season. The 26-year-old leads the league in several rushing categories, including yards (1,356) and touchdowns (16). He also ranks second in attempts (247), two behind James Cook III (249). At this point, Taylor appears to be well on his way to having the best season of his career. Unfortunately, the 2020 No. 41 overall pick has cooled since finding the end zone three times versus the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin back in Week 10, scoring only once in his last three appearances. With four regular-season games left on the schedule, Indianapolis is looking for a much-needed win over Seattle on Sunday in hopes of climbing back to the top of the AFC South. However, the Colts have to figure out a way to win without Daniel Jones (Achilles), who will miss the remainder of the 2025 campaign. That means Indy will turn to the recently un-retired Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee) to take over under center in Week 15. All things considered, both quarterbacks could have a tough time getting anything going against a formidable Seahawks defense, meaning Taylor may get his number called even more than usual. Granted, JT might not have the easiest day either, considering Seattle has allowed just four rushing touchdowns this season. Still, despite the challenging matchup on the horizon, Taylor remains a must-start in all season-long fantasy formats. On the other hand, DFS managers should consider alternative options.