Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Kimani Vidal

Saturday, September 13, 11:55 AM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler suffered a torn Achilles during Thursday night's loss to the Green Bay Packers. Ekeler injured his ankle on the game's final drive while stepping back awkwardly. The lead back for Washington through the first two weeks, Ekeler totaled 14 carries for 43 yards and added five receptions for 38 yards. With 2024 starter Brian Robinson Jr. already traded, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt will now step into the starting role. Ekeler's contract expires after this season, making the injury an even bigger blow for the former star running back.

Wednesday, August 27, 10:45 PM

The Los Angeles Chargers waived running back Kimani Vidal on Tuesday, but Vidal is expected to return to the team via its practice squad, according to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. With Najee Harris (eye) able to avoid a trip to the NFI list, Vidal lost the battle with Hassan Haskins for the third and final running back slot on the Chargers' active roster. Los Angeles drafted Vidal in the sixth round in 2024, and he recorded 217 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown on 48 total touches as a rookie. The soon-to-be 24-year-old could get a second chance to make an impact with the team if a backfield injury leads to his activation from the practice squad, but he should remain off the radar of fantasy managers for the time being.