Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Najee Harris

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, July 22, 4:28 PM

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh noted that he's unsure if running back Najee Harris (eye) will be back for training camp as he heals from a recent fireworks mishap. "He's healing and doing everything he can to get back on the field," Harbaugh said on Tuesday. Yikes. Since news broke of the fifth-year pro's injury, the reports have been conflicting. Nonetheless, this is troubling news for Harris, as his timeline to return seems unclear. The recent addition of veteran running back/kick returner Nyheim Hines doesn't quell any worries surrounding the former Pittsburgh Steeler either. Harris' initial diagnosis was deemed superficial, so he shouldn't miss too much time. However, this leaves the door open for rookie rusher Omarion Hampton to seize increased volume ahead of schedule. This situation warrants close monitoring.