Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Nick Chubb

Tuesday, August 19, 10:23 AM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler is still viewed as a "key" piece of the offense, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic. Earlier this week, reports suggested that the Commanders were actively looking to find a trade partner for running back Brian Robinson Jr. During training camp and the opening weeks of the preseason, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt has flashed immense upside and appears to be in the running to take the starting job over Robinson. Last season, Ekeler served as the primary third-down running back in the offense. While he missed five games, he was rather productive when on the field. During his first 10 games in D.C., Ekeler averaged a solid 12.3 PPR points per game with solid 5.1 YPC. Even if Robinson were to stay on the Commanders, Ekeler would likely have a significant role on passing downs. He is worth a look as a late-round depth RB as he could even carve out a more substantial role if Robinson were to be traded.

Monday, August 18, 8:27 AM

Houston Texans running back Nick Chubb made his Texans' preseason debut on Saturday against the Panthers, taking five carries for 25 yards while working with the starting unit and quarterback C.J. Stroud. Chubb recently cleared the concussion protocol and could be lined up to start the year with the top unit of the offense, depending on the status of Joe Mixon (ankle, foot) for Week 1. Mixon is dealing with a lingering ankle/foot injury and remains on the Non-Football Injury list. Chubb was brought to Houston this offseason after he struggled in his return from his devastating knee injury in 2023. When he's fully healthy, Chubb has a superstar ceiling, but Dameon Pierce and rookie Woody Marks will also potentially be in the mix. Houston's backfield remains a key situation to watch for the rest of the preseason.