Who Should I Start? Hunter Luepke or Kyle Monangai

Wednesday, September 3, 9:47 AM

The Dallas Cowboys and fullback Hunter Luepke have agreed to a two-year contract extension worth up to $7.5 million, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo. The deal makes Luepke the second-highest paid fullback in the NFL, joining San Francisco's Kyle Juszczyk, behind Miami Dolphins' Alec Ingold. The third-year pro out of North Dakota State is coming off the best season of his career in 2024, when he tallied 149 yards and a touchdown on 24 touches. Beyond his production, Luepke proved his value as a versatile contributor, excelling as a runner, receiver, and blocker in the Cowboys' offense. With the extension secured, Luepke is expected to remain Dallas's starting fullback as the team prepares for a critical Week 1 divisional matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Saturday, October 11, 12:16 PM

Chicago Bears rookie running back Kyle Monangai will look to build on his growing role coming out of the team's bye week. Through four games, the seventh-round pick has logged 17 carries for 62 yards and added three receptions for 23 yards. While his production has been limited, head coach Ben Johnson has praised Monangai for making the most of his opportunities. With D'Andre Swift off to a slow start, Monangai could begin to push for a larger share of the backfield touches in the coming weeks. However, the matchup against the Washington Commanders isn't favorable, as they've allowed the 10th-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season. Monangai isn't a fantasy option just yet, but managers should keep an eye on his usage Monday night, as the rookie could quietly carve out a bigger role in Week 6 and beyond.