Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Travis Etienne Jr.

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.

Sunday, November 16, 7:26 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. had 19 carries, 73 rushing yards, and two rushing touchdowns during Sunday's Week 11 win over the Los Angeles Chargers. He was unable to haul in either of his two targets in the passing game. Etienne ceded early-game touches to Bhayshul Tuten (ankle), but then the rookie left the game with an injury, clearing the way for Etienne to re-establish himself as the lead back. The 26-year-old took full advantage of the opportunity, helping fuel a 35-6 upset victory at home. If Tuten is healthy in Week 12, we could see somewhat of a 50/50 backfield split, as both running backs have proven that they are effective and can provide a spark. In a split backfield, Etienne is a low-end RB2. However, he would jump to the RB1 tier if he operates as the workhorse or if Tuten misses time.