Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Tyrone Tracy 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.

Tuesday, October 7, 4:29 PM

New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll is optimistic that running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (shoulder) will be able to make his return in Week 6 on Thursday night against the division-rival Philadelphia Eagles, according to Paul Schwartz of the New York Post. Tracy suffered a dislocated right shoulder in the Week 3 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs and has missed the last two games as a result. However, the 25-year-old has made good progress and was listed as a limited practice participant for the second straight day this week on Tuesday. It's good news for the Giants' offense as they take on a tough divisional opponent on a short week, but even if Tracy makes his return, fantasy managers will probably want to stay away. Rookie Cam Skattebo has taken over lead-back duties in the Big Apple. Tracy will still be involved when he's back, but he's likely to take on more of a secondary role, especially in his return.