Who Should I Start? J.K. Dobbins or Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Wednesday, October 8, 11:15 AM

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins has "been fantastic," according to Broncos head coach Sean Payton. The 26-year-old is in his first year with the team and has gotten off to a fast start to the season, rushing for 402 yards and four touchdowns on 77 carries through five games. Dobbins does not offer much as a receiver (six total receptions), but he's been the clear lead rusher in a Broncos backfield that also features RJ Harvey and Tyler Badie. Health has always been a question mark for Dobbins, as he had played in just 22 games over his previous three seasons coming into 2025. However, if he stays healthy, it does not appear he's in any danger of losing his current role in Denver. Dobbins profiles as a must-start fantasy running back in Week 6 against the New York Jets.

Friday, October 10, 7:32 PM

Washington Commanders running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt broke out with his best game of the season in Week 5 against the Chargers, totaling 150 yards and two touchdowns on 16 touches. The Croskey-Merritt takeover finally happened in Week 5, posting a season-high 50.9% snap share, handling 50% of the team's rush attempts, and running 31.3% of the team's routes. All marks were the highest of any Washington back in Week 5, and he delivered with a remarkable performance. For the season, he's rushed 283 yards and four touchdowns on 43 carries, averaging a league-best 6.6 yards per carry. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury provided some reason to keep the optimism in check, saying that the rookie still has "ways to go" in terms of playing without the ball in his hands. His work in pass protection has improved, but that is still an area where veteran Jeremy McNichols is most trusted. Third-year back Chris Rodriguez Jr. saw his lowest snap count and fewest carries in a game since becoming active in Week 5, suggesting he may be slipping back into a depth role. Croskey-Merritt should be expected to handle the bulk of the touches again in Week 6 against a Bears defense that is allowing an absurd 6.1 yards per carry and the fourth-most PPR points per game to opposing running backs. He should be fired up as a high-upside RB2 on Monday night.