Who Should I Start? Javonte Williams or Brian Robinson Jr.

Friday, December 20, 12:27 AM

Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams certainly had a bigger role in the offense with Jaleel McLaughlin (quadriceps) out in the Thursday night loss to the division-rival Los Angeles Chargers, but not in the way that many would have predicted. Williams took a back seat to rookie Audric Estime on the ground in the 34-27 loss with only four carries for 24 yards (6.0 yards per tote), but he surprisingly led the team in targets (11), securing a team-high and season-high seven catches for 29 yards through the air. Rookie QB Bo Nix was content to check it down most of the night, with Williams benefitting. The 24-year-old came into Thursday's game with a disappointing 3.5 yard-per-carry average on the ground, although he was much more efficient on limited touches against LA. It's unlikely he'll be this involved in the passing game again, but if McLaughlin misses another game, Williams will have RB3/flex appeal in a plus matchup against Cincinnati in Week 17.

Friday, December 20, 7:13 PM

Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. should be set for another workhorse opportunity to share this weekend, facing the Philadelphia Eagles with Austin Ekeler (concussion) on the injured reserve. Last weekend, Robinson had a modest showing, tallying only 65 rushing yards and 22 receiving yards against the Saints. However, during Week 14, Robinson tallied 103 yards and a score. Even though he will face a tough Philadelphia rushing defense that has allowed the third-fewest PPR points to the position this season, fantasy managers should feel confident viewing him as a solid RB2, given his projected opportunity share. The Alabama product has shown a nose for the end zone all season, tallying eight scores across 11 contests. The last time he faced the Eagles, Robinson tallied 63 yards and a score on the ground.