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, November 28, 6:32 PM

Seattle Seahawks running back Zach Charbonnet is a risky play in Week 13 against the Minnesota Vikings. Minnesota is No. 11 against opposing running backs in fantasy. They are not world beaters, but they are allowing just 3.92 yards per carry to opposing running backs. Charbonnet has not been the most efficient running back this season, but he has been a great touchdown scorer. Charbonnet has scored seven touchdowns this season. In games in which Charbonnet scores a touchdown, he delivers RB2 or flex value. If Charbonnet does not score a touchdown, he is only able to score single-digit fantasy points. While the Vikings have a solid defense, Seattle should be able to move the ball against them. If they reach the five-yard line, Charbonnet will have a good chance to score. However, with no teams on bye this week and minimal running back injuries, Charbonnet is likely off the fantasy radar. If you are forced to start him, he is a very risky play.