Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Rhamondre Stevenson

Saturday, September 13, 11:55 AM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler suffered a torn Achilles during Thursday night's loss to the Green Bay Packers. Ekeler injured his ankle on the game's final drive while stepping back awkwardly. The lead back for Washington through the first two weeks, Ekeler totaled 14 carries for 43 yards and added five receptions for 38 yards. With 2024 starter Brian Robinson Jr. already traded, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt will now step into the starting role. Ekeler's contract expires after this season, making the injury an even bigger blow for the former star running back.

Saturday, September 13, 10:52 AM

New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson is merely a volume-based FLEX play in deeper fantasy leagues ahead of Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins. Stevenson handled just seven carries and three targets in Week 1, producing just 27 scrimmage yards. He is expected to have a decreased role this week as the Patriots continue to incorporate Tre'Veyon Henderson more. Stevenson's fantasy value is slightly boosted, however, by a matchup against the Dolphins, who were arguably the NFL's worst team in Week 1. Miami allowed 112 rushing yards (3.7 YPC) to running backs last weekend, as well as a pair of rushing touchdowns to Daniel Jones. Stevenson isn't going to see a whole lot of volume, but he could get some extra yardage if Miami's defense continues to get dismantled.