Who Should I Start? Dylan Sampson or Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Friday, September 5, 8:21 PM

Cleveland Browns running back Dylan Sampson will make his NFL debut at home against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1. Sampson, a fourth-round pick in this year's NFL draft, is expected to open the season as the team's change-of-pace back behind starter Jerome Ford. The exact extent of Sampson's role is yet to be seen, but he could see plenty of work in the passing game in a contest where the Browns may have to pass frequently to keep up with a high-powered Cincinnati. Sampson checks in as a dart-throw flex option who is worth a look in deep leagues as a potential sleeper.

Saturday, September 6, 1:00 AM

Washington Commanders rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt's role in the backfield is still unclear for Week 1 against the Giants. Croskey-Merritt, or who many now refer to as "Bill," was recently listed as RB4 on the team's unofficial depth chart. It becomes a question of whether the Washington coaching staff opts to keep four running backs active on gameday. Austin Ekeler will be in line to see most of the snaps, while Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jeremy McNichols could also be in the mix for touches and play special teams. He is the most explosive and shifty runner in Washington's running back room, which should lead to some touches even if he isn't the starter right away. Croskey-Merritt has been one of the more trendy names of draft season, and he is one of the better upside picks to take. However, the usage is tough to predict for Week 1 and should likely stay on benches.