Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Kyren Williams

Sunday, January 26, 6:46 PM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler tallied just 32 all-purpose yards during their loss in the NFC Championship game to the Philadelphia Eagles. Ekeler also lost a fumble. The Commanders were playing from behind throughout most of the contest, putting their rushing attack out of the game plan. However, even when Ekeler was given the ball through the air, he could not perform. He caught five of his seven targets but tallied just 17 yards. His seven targets tied him the second-most on the team, only behind tight end Zach Ertz. Throughout the season, the 29-year-old operated primarily as a change-of-pace option in the Washington backfield. Entering Sunday, Ekeler posted a strong 10.3 yards per catch and a 4.8 yards per carry. Ekeler will likely remain in this role next season as he enters the final year of his contract.

Tuesday, June 17, 8:34 PM

Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times reports that Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay indicates progress has been made towards a possible extension with running back Kyren Williams. Klein also noted that there has been no update on the situation with defensive back Jalen Ramsey. Williams has been hopeful of a contract for some time now, as he looks for his pay to match his production. The Notre Dame product has new backfield competition with LA's selection of rookie Jarquez Hunter (whom they traded up for). However, it's unlikely he'll lose his stranglehold on the backfield's touches, or even that Hunter will surpass second-year teammate Blake Corum. It's still in the cards that Williams doesn't receive a long-term deal, but he'll be among the best fantasy backs again this season, and well worth an early draft pick.