Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Najee Harris

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.

Thursday, December 19, 11:54 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris had his worst showing of the campaign in Week 15 and unfortunately draws another tough challenge against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. Baltimore has given up just 3.41 yards per carry to opposing backs, the fewest in the NFL. It is worth noting, however, that Harris played well against the Ravens just a few weeks ago. In a Week 11 meeting with his division rival, Harris totaled 93 yards from scrimmage and finished as the RB17 in half-PPR scoring. With George Pickens (hamstring) set to miss a third straight contest, Pittsburgh could try to dictate the tempo at home by establishing the run with Harris and Jaylen Warren. Fantasy managers should keep their expectations in check given the difficulty of the matchup, but Harris can be started as a low-end RB2 or flex option this week.