Who Should I Start? Jaret Patterson or Malik Davis

Monday, December 1, 6:41 PM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Jaret Patterson carried the ball 11 times for 54 yards and a touchdown in the team's 31-14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. After being signed to the active roster early last week, Patterson served as the primary back behind Kimani Vidal as the Chargers totaled 192 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Patterson looked decisive and scored his first rushing touchdown of the season as the offense relied heavily on the ground game following Justin Herbert's hand injury. Looking ahead, rookie Omarion Hampton's return from IR is imminent after his 21-day practice window opened last week, which would move Patterson behind Hampton and Vidal. Next Monday night, the Bolts face a Philadelphia Eagles defense that has recently been vulnerable against the run. However, Patterson's fantasy value depends entirely on Hampton's availability in Week 14. If Hampton returns, Patterson might not even see the field. If he doesn't, Patterson will remain a depth piece with a few change-of-pace carries.

Friday, January 2, 4:57 PM

Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis (calf, eye) has been ruled out for the Week 18 regular-season finale on Sunday against the division-rival New York Giants, according to The Athletic's Jon Machota. Javonte Williams (neck, shoulder) has also been ruled out, so rookie Jaydon Blue will see by far the most playing time he's had all season long to close things out. The 27-year-old Davis will finish his 2025 campaign on a high note after carrying the ball 20 times for 103 yards in the Christmas Day win over the Washington Commanders in Week 17. He took over around midseason as the No. 2 back behind Williams and never let go. Davis could be in line for an even bigger role in 2026 if the Cowboys don't re-sign Williams. Davis finishes his third NFL season with 250 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 52 rushing attempts, adding two receptions for 16 yards in 10 games played.