Who Should I Start? James Conner or Ashton Jeanty

Saturday, September 6, 10:06 AM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner has quietly built a solid career as he enters year number nine in the NFL. The former Pitt Panther is only 30 yards away from 6,000 and one touchdown shy of 60, which he could reach in the first week of the season, making him the 55th running back in NFL history to reach those marks (fifth on the active RB list). To open up the 2025 season, the Cardinals take on the New Orleans Saints, who finished as the D/ST22 last season and come into this year projected as the D/ST23. Conner should be able to find some running room and will likely continue to receive red zone touches despite Trey Benson being projected to get some more work. RotoBaller's rankers have him projected as the RB19 this year with a very enticing 17 fantasy point prediction in Week 1.

Monday, September 8, 3:52 AM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty's NFL career started with a victory, though his efforts had little to do with the outcome. The Boise State product had 38 rushing yards on 19 carries and two receiving yards on two catches in the Raiders' 20-13 win over the Patriots in their 2025 season opener. Despite the disappointing stat line, fantasy managers should be encouraged by Jeanty's usage. The highly-touted rookie dominated the backfield opportunities, not only taking the lion's share of rushing attempts but finishing with an 86% snap share. Fantasy managers who took a chance on the sixth-overall pick from the NFL Draft might have to wait a bit longer before their investment pays off. Jeanty has a challenging matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 2.