Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Rachaad White

Wednesday, September 3, 4:27 PM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler was once again deployed as the team's RB1 during practice on Wednesday. During a QB/RB drill, JP Finaly of NBC4 reported that Ekeler was given the first opportunity, while seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt followed him. Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez Jr. followed behind him as the third and fourth running backs. Earlier in the week, Ekeler was listed first on the team's depth chart, and his usage during Wednesday's practice seems to solidify his role as the lead option. During his debut season in Washington, Ekeler served as the primary pass-catching back, but was still very effective on the ground, posting a 4.8 YPC. Given his projected role, Ekeler carries RB2 upside in PPR leagues and strong flex value in standard formats facing the New York Giants in Week 1.

Friday, August 29, 8:31 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White (groin) returned to practice last week and is expected to be ready for the team's Sept. 7 season opener against the New Orleans Saints, according to Matt Matera of Pewter Report. White dealt with a groin injury earlier this month and missed the Buccaneers' final two preseason games. Thanks to the emergence of Bucky Irving last year, White is heading into this season in a backup role. With Irving as the starter and Sean Tucker expected to receive an increase in touches, White could see diminished opportunities this year. However, having hauled in 50-plus catches in all three seasons of his career, he should still have a role in the Bucs' passing game.