Who Should I Start? Jerick McKinnon or Austin Ekeler

Wednesday, January 10, 12:32 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon (hernia, pelvis) was on crutches on Tuesday in his first day back at the team's facility following sports-hernia surgery on Jan. 2, which was performed by Dr. Williams Meyers. In addition to a sports hernia, McKinnon fractured his pelvis. It all means that McKinnon is doubtful to return for the postseason, even if the Chiefs make another run to the Super Bowl this year. The 31-year-old is eligible for free agency in March but has expressed interest in returning to Kansas City. McKinnon missed the final three games of the regular season and finished 2023 with just 21 carries for 60 yards and one touchdown while adding 25 receptions for 192 yards and four touchdowns through the air in 12 games played. Clyde Edwards-Helaire will have a bigger role as the No. 2 in KC's backfield behind Isiah Pacheco now that McKinnon is out.

Sunday, October 20, 7:27 PM

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler had a quiet showing in their Week 7 dismantling of the Carolina Panthers. Ekeler ran the ball just four times for a mere 17 yards. In the passing game, he brought in both of his targets just three yards. This was his lowest output of the season, both on the ground and through the air. However, the game script for the pass-catching back was not too positive, as the Commanders were up by multiple scores all evening. Fantasy managers in PPR leagues should continue to view Ekeler as a low-end flex option heading into their Week 8 tilt against the Chicago Bears.