Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Travis Kelce

Tuesday, August 19, 10:23 AM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler is still viewed as a "key" piece of the offense, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic. Earlier this week, reports suggested that the Commanders were actively looking to find a trade partner for running back Brian Robinson Jr. During training camp and the opening weeks of the preseason, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt has flashed immense upside and appears to be in the running to take the starting job over Robinson. Last season, Ekeler served as the primary third-down running back in the offense. While he missed five games, he was rather productive when on the field. During his first 10 games in D.C., Ekeler averaged a solid 12.3 PPR points per game with solid 5.1 YPC. Even if Robinson were to stay on the Commanders, Ekeler would likely have a significant role on passing downs. He is worth a look as a late-round depth RB as he could even carve out a more substantial role if Robinson were to be traded.

Saturday, August 23, 4:35 AM

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce caught two passes for 32 yards in the 27-29 preseason loss to the Chicago Bears. Kelce only played the first three drives of the game with the starters, but finished with the second-most targets among Chiefs pass catchers. The 35-year-old caught both of his passes from Patrick Mahomes on that third drive, and his longest catch went for 20 yards to begin that possession. The Chiefs offense as a whole took a step back last season, with a clear shortage of explosive plays from Kelce in the passing game. The veteran tight end is now another year older, but he should still be heavily utilized in this Mahomes-led offense. The Kansas City offense was rolling with the starters playing, and this season is an opportunity for the team to bounce back from their down year. If the Chiefs increase their scoring output this year, Kelce could end up being a steal at his current ADP.