Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Trey Benson

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.

Sunday, August 10, 10:32 AM

Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson received the most carries out of the backfield in the team's 20-17 preseason win over the Kansas City Chiefs. The second-year back out of Florida State finished with nine carries for 29 yards and one catch for 20 yards on his lone target. The efficiency on the ground wasn't particularly shining through this game, but he did show some explosive moments and took a short pass from Kyler Murray for 20 yards near the end of the first quarter, which set them up for a field goal. Benson is likely to remain the backup to James Conner, but the Cardinals have a lot of backs getting touches so far this preseason.