Who Should I Start? Chris Rodriguez Jr. or Emari Demercado

Wednesday, December 3, 10:50 AM

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. has taken over the RB1 duties in Washington. Despite the preseason hype that surrounded seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rodriguez has been the RB1 as of late, totaling 201 rushing yards and three touchdowns in his last four games. Rodriguez played 44% of the snaps in their past two games, with receiving back Jeremy McNichols playing 35%, while Croskey-Merritt played just 20%. With the return of Jayden Daniels imminent, the Commanders' offense could be explosive down the stretch, which means good things are coming for the third-year back from Kentucky. In 2024, Daniels led the Commanders to the fifth-ranked scoring offense and an NFC Championship appearance. If Daniels returns, Rodriguez should have more scoring opportunities and can make an impact in the fantasy playoffs.

Friday, December 5, 6:18 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado (ankle) has been ruled out ahead of the Week 14 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. There was some hope that Demercado would return this weekend after getting in two limited practice sessions. Unfortunately, Demercado sat out of Friday's practice and will be held out for a third straight game due to an ankle sprain. His absence has opened up more playing time for both Bam Knight and Michael Carter, with Trey Benson (knee) still on Injured Reserve. Between the two, Knight is the better streaming choice for Sunday's slate in a tough matchup against L.A. Knight has found the end zone in three straight games. The 24-year-old should be considered a solid low-upside flex play against the Rams. Demerado has a limited path to fantasy relevance in PPR leagues the rest of the way, but only if Benson stays on IR.