Who Should I Start? Isiah Pacheco or Ashton Jeanty

Sunday, June 1, 8:36 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco told the Kansas City Star's Jesse Newell that he focused on gaining weight this offseason to get closer to his shape at the NFL Combine. "Just going back to 216, 4.37 Isiah Pacheco-style," said Pacheco. The Rutgers product was excellent for Kansas City over his first two seasons, but a fibula fracture in Week 2 of 2024 would derail a fantastic start for him. Miraculously, he'd return in Week 13, but the 26-year-old was not his usual effective self. The missed time caused him to lean out, but head coach Andy Reid notes that Pacheco put on some "good weight" and is looking "tremendous" ahead of the 2025 season. There'll be more competition for him in the Chiefs' backfield this year. However, more time removed from an ugly injury should benefit him. It's unclear whether or not the added weight will be a boon to him. Still, he has an excellent chance at a bounce-back season.

Wednesday, June 25, 6:15 PM

Las Vegas Raiders rookie first-round running back Ashton Jeanty has made a strong impression within the organization, according to ESPN's Ryan McFadden. Head coach Pete Carroll said Jeanty was "every bit" of what the team hoped for during offseason workouts as he showcased his pass-catching abilities and understanding of the offense. The Boise State product received most of the first-team reps during OTAs and minicamp, an indication that he's already established himself as the team's RB1. "He's such a strong and dynamic back," left tackle Kolton Miller said. "Even if he gets hit, he's still balanced, and that's super unique." There's been talk that the Raiders could use a committee backfield in 2025, but they didn't draft Jeanty sixth overall for that. He's going to cost a pretty penny in fantasy drafts and is already considered a top-five fantasy back going into his rookie campaign.