Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Omarion Hampton

Monday, September 22, 12:34 PM

Although Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. wasn't all that efficient (3.5 yards per carry) in his 2025 debut in the team's 41-24 blowout win over the visiting Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, he did lead the team with 11 carries. Rodriguez was a healthy scratch the first two weeks, but he was elevated to the active roster for Week 3 after Austin Ekeler tore his Achilles in Week 2. The 24-year-old ran for 39 yards on his 11 carries and was not utilized in the passing game. Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt was second on the team with eight carries, and he, too, was inefficient with just 26 yards on the ground. Jeremy McNichols and quarterback Marcus Mariota combined for 10 rushing attempts and two touchdowns against the Raiders. Croskey-Merritt has the most upside in the Commanders' backfield moving forward with Ekeler done for the year, but Rodriguez is worth a waiver-wire pickup if you have JCM rostered or are looking for RB depth. Rodriguez is currently rostered in only 5% of Yahoo leagues.

Friday, September 26, 3:24 PM

Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Omarion Hampton is primed for a heavy workload following the season-ending injury to Najee Harris (Achilles). In the team's 23-20 win over the Denver Broncos, Hampton recorded 19 carries for 70 yards and a touchdown, along with six catches for 59 yards, demonstrating his value in both the running and passing game. The 0-3 New York Giants are an ideal matchup, ranking in the bottom third in every defensive category and allowing the second-most rushing yards in the league. Although the absence of guard Mekhi Becton (concussion) could create some vulnerability, Hampton's expected workhorse role and favorable opponent position him for a strong performance. RotoBaller projects Hampton as RB10 this week and considers him a must-start across all formats.