Who Should I Start? Chris Rodriguez Jr. or Trevor Etienne

Thursday, September 11, 7:06 PM

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. is a healthy inactive for the second straight week to open the season in 2025 on Thursday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers. There were rumblings at the end of training camp that Rodriguez could have a significant early-down role alongside rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt after the team traded Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers, but that has not been the case. The 24-year-old RB has opened the year as the No. 4 behind Croskey-Merritt, veteran Austin Ekeler, and Jeremy McNichols. JCR has the most upside of any back in Washington's offense as the favorite for most of the early down work, while Ekeler has flex appeal in point-per-reception leagues. At least for another week, Rodriguez belongs on the waiver wire in 12-team fantasy formats.

Sunday, August 31, 9:28 AM

Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne did a nice job during the preseason. He showed he has breakaway speed to make a big play at any moment. Despite that, Etienne is unlikely to have a significant role to begin the season. Chuba Hubbard is going to be the lead back to begin the season. The Panthers brought in Rico Dowdle as a viable second option, so he'll likely be the second string. That means, Etienne probably isn't going to see much action right away. According to the team's official website, Etienne is penciled in as the third string back. However, the 21-year-old could wrestle away the second string job from Dowdle with more consistent play. For now, Etienne is a dynasty stash and someone that is unlikely to make an impact right away.