Who Should I Start? Chase Brown or Emari Demercado

Saturday, October 25, 11:48 AM

Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown hasn't had the year most had anticipated heading into the 2025 campaign. He scored a touchdown in the Week 1 win over the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old hasn't visited the end zone since. However, Brown at least displayed signs of life in the Thursday night win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 7, finishing with 11 carries for 108 yards, marking his first game in nearly a year with over 100 yards on the ground. Rightfully so, fantasy participants remain skeptical. Still, Brown was selected early in fantasy drafts leading up to the season, so will managers feel comfortable keeping him on the bench? Some will continue to take that approach, and that's understandable. On the other hand, injuries have been a common issue for teams around the National Football League, meaning others may not have anywhere else to turn. All things considered, Brown has one of the highest ceilings at the running back position. Despite some imposing run-stoppers for the Jets, specifically Quinnen Williams and Brandon Stephens, Brown's pass-catching acumen gives him more than enough upside to warrant starting consideration in all fantasy setups.

Friday, October 17, 1:11 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado (ankle) has been ruled out for Week 7 this Sunday against the visiting Green Bay Packers, according to head coach Jonathan Gannon. Demercado suffered an ankle injury in last week's loss to the Indianapolis Colts and was unable to practice all week. The 26-year-old will now have next week's bye to heal up before potentially returning for a Week 9 contest versus the Dallas Cowboys. Demercado was a popular waiver-wire addition when Trey Benson (knee) suffered a knee injury in Week 4, but it was Michael Carter, not Demercado, who took over the majority of backfield work for the Cardinals. Arizona then went to Bam Knight as their primary backfield option in Week 6, with Carter taking on most of the pass-catching duties. Expect that to continue against Green Bay, with D'Ernest Johnson or Jermar Jefferson serving in the RB3 role with Demercado out.