Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Rhamondre Stevenson

Sunday, September 15, 5:12 PM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler was quiet as a rusher Sunday afternoon but made his impact through the air. Ekeler caught all three of his targets for 47 yards. On the ground, he saw just eight attempts for 38 yards. The veteran running back was primarily deployed as a pass catcher in the season opener, and Week 2 was quite similar. Last week, he registered 52 receiving yards (which led the team) on four receptions. While Brian Robinson Jr. will continue to see the lion's share of rushing attempts, Ekeler will still hold fantasy value, especially in PPR formats as he is becoming a safety valve for rookie QB Jayden Daniels. Fantasy managers should continue to view Ekeler as an upside flex in PPR leagues, but in standard leagues where receptions are not scored, it is better to find production elsewhere.

Wednesday, September 18, 4:46 PM

New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson remains an intriguing fantasy football option for Week 3 versus the New York Jets given his usage and efficiency within the team's offense. He has one touchdown in each of his first two games this year, and he's also averaging a whopping 27 opportunities per contest. With 4.37 YPC to his name, the 26-year-old has the volume and efficiency needed to thrive in fantasy football. The biggest factors holding him back from the mid-range RB1 tier are receiving usage and ball security. He's been involved on passing downs in the past, but so far this season, he hasn't exceeded three catches in a single game. He also has a fumble in each of his contests. He's lucky both were recovered by the Patriots, but the fact of the matter is that he could lose some opportunities if he continues to have trouble holding on the football. Nevertheless, volume is key at the running back position. Stevenson's usage and touchdown upside make him a very appealing RB2 option heading into Week 3 against the New York Jets.