Who Should I Start? Jarquez Hunter or Jordan James

Saturday, August 30, 12:59 PM

Los Angeles Rams rookie running back Jarquez Hunter is likely to open the season behind both Kyren Williams and Blake Corum in the team's backfield pecking order. Given how heavily Los Angeles has utilized Williams over the past two seasons, Hunter's RB3 status could mean that he is unlikely to see the field much as a rookie. A fourth-round pick out of Auburn, Hunter led the SEC by averaging 6.4 yards per rush attempt in his final collegiate season. The 22-year-old brings an explosive speed element to the Rams' backfield that Williams and Corum do not. However, Williams and Corum are dependable three-down backs who can make plays inside the tackles, which is a skill set that Rams head coach Sean McVay has typically favored. An injury could change things, but for now, Hunter should be off the radar of fantasy managers in 2025.

Wednesday, August 27, 10:17 PM

San Francisco 49ers rookie running back Jordan James (finger) returned to practice on Wednesday, per David Lombardi of The San Francisco Standard. James has been sidelined since early August with a broken finger, but appears on track to be ready for Week 1. The 21-year-old was pushed down the team's depth chart when the 49ers acquired veteran running back Brian Robinson Jr. from the Washington Commanders. However, James could open the season as the RB3 in San Francisco if second-year back Isaac Guerendo (shoulder) misses time due to an ongoing shoulder issue. James would likely need multiple injuries to the backs ahead of him to be fantasy-relevant in 2025, but he's a name to be aware of in dynasty leagues.