Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or Zach Charbonnet

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.

Friday, December 5, 11:02 AM

Seattle Seahawks running back Zach Charbonnet has been a touchdown machine this season. He has a great chance to score in Week 14 against an Atlanta Falcons defense that is No. 24 against opposing running backs in fantasy. The Seahawks should be able to move the ball on Sunday. When this team finds itself close to the end zone, there is a good chance that Charbonnet is going to receive the ball. Charbonnet's eight touchdowns in 2025 already match his career high from a season ago. When he scores, he delivers flex value for fantasy football. With the Falcons deploying a weaker defense against opposing running backs, Charbonnet may even find running room outside of the red zone. If Charbonnet can turn in a relatively efficient game and find the end zone, you will be happy in fantasy. As usual, Charbonnet is a risky play. However, his touchdown upside in Week 14 is high if you need a starter.