Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Ty Chandler

Monday, March 11, 7:05 PM

Veteran free-agent running back Austin Ekeler is signing with the Washington Commanders on Monday on a two-year deal worth up to $11.43 million, according to sources. Ekeler is headed to the East coast after seven seasons and 69 total touchdowns with the Los Angeles Chargers. The 28-year-old was extremely productive in his time with the Bolts, but he's coming off one of his worst statistical seasons in 2023 and is now heading to a Commanders backfield where he'll be expected to split the workload with Brian Robinson. On a side note, former Commanders RB Antonio Gibson agreed to join the New England Patriots. Gone are the days of Ekeler being a no-doubt RB1 for fantasy managers, although he still has the talent to be a highly productive RB3/flex option, especially in PPR leagues. In addition, the Commanders' signing of Ekeler is going to be bad news for B-Rob's fantasy ceiling.

Friday, March 1, 12:15 AM

After the release of running back Alexander Mattison on Thursday, Minnesota Vikings running back Ty Chandler is the team's starter at the position. After the release of Dalvin Cook, Mattison operated as Minnesota's lead back in 2023, taking 180 carries for 700 yards and no rushing touchdowns. Chandler, a former fifth-round pick in 2022, served as a complementary back and saw 102 rushing attempts for 461 yards (4.5 yards per carry) and three rushing scores, adding 21 receptions for 159 additional yards in his second season. The 25-year-old was more efficient than Mattison and should have a bigger role in Minnesota's backfield in 2024, but the Vikings will likely look to add to their RB through the offseason, through either the draft or free agency, or both.