Who Should I Start? James Cook or Quinshon Judkins

Wednesday, July 30, 8:35 AM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has been pushing for a larger role during the first week of training camp. Cook wants to play more on third downs this season after the team mostly turned to Ty Johnson on passing downs in 2024. Thus far in camp, the Bills haven't appeared interested in changing their offense after getting excellent production from their rushing attack last year. Cook will be a free agent after the season, so he likely wants to show that he can be a three-down back as he has an eye on securing a long-term deal for 2026 and beyond. Cook finished as a low-end RB1 in fantasy in 2024, although he benefited from 16 rushing touchdowns. Fantasy managers can continue to draft Cook as a high-end RB2 in upcoming drafts with the possibility for more if the Buffalo coaching staff decides to throw him the ball a bit more frequently.

Tuesday, July 29, 2:33 PM

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam said he is "cautiously optimistic" that rookie running back Quinshon Judkins will play for the Browns this season, according to Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN. Judkins was arrested on domestic violence charges earlier in July and remains unsigned as a result. The Browns drafted Judkins in the second round out of Ohio State, where he collected over 1,200 yards from scrimmage and 16 touchdowns in 2024. He had been expected to compete with veteran Jerome Ford and fellow rookie Dylan Sampson for backfield touches in Cleveland, but Judkins could be facing missed time due to suspension as a result of his off-field issues. Until there's more clarity around Judkins' legal situation, fantasy managers in re-draft leagues should proceed with caution.