Who Should I Start? Jaleel McLaughlin or DJ Giddens

Saturday, March 21, 8:06 AM

Indianapolis Colts running back DJ Giddens was a popular selection in rookie drafts last year because of his role behind Jonathan Taylor. Managers saw that Taylor had missed 16 games over the last three seasons and believed that Giddens could end up starting some games if the star running back missed time. The logic was sound, but Taylor ended up having one of the healthiest and most successful seasons of his career, logging 1,963 scrimmage yards and 20 touchdowns without missing any games. Giddens had 12 carries for 41 yards in Week 1, but he was limited to just six touches over the next six weeks as Taylor played the vast majority of the snaps. The rookie ended up being a healthy scratch for roughly half the season, as Indianapolis rotated him, Tyler Goodson, and Ameer Abdullah in depth roles. Giddens got back into action in Week 18, rushing for 30 carries on eight yards. In games where he played at least one-quarter of the snaps, Giddens averaged 10 touches and 3.55 yards per carry. He wasn't amazing by any means, but he flashed enough upside to suggest that the Colts could turn to him as Taylor's primary backup in 2026. Now, we're back in a familiar situation, with Giddens' fantasy value hinging on Taylor's availability. The Kansas State product should be viewed as an encouraging buy-low option in dynasty leagues this offseason, especially for managers who roster Taylor and want to also add his handcuff.