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.

Monday, March 11, 7:05 PM

Veteran free-agent running back Austin Ekeler is signing with the Washington Commanders on Monday on a two-year deal worth up to $11.43 million, according to sources. Ekeler is headed to the East coast after seven seasons and 69 total touchdowns with the Los Angeles Chargers. The 28-year-old was extremely productive in his time with the Bolts, but he's coming off one of his worst statistical seasons in 2023 and is now heading to a Commanders backfield where he'll be expected to split the workload with Brian Robinson. On a side note, former Commanders RB Antonio Gibson agreed to join the New England Patriots. Gone are the days of Ekeler being a no-doubt RB1 for fantasy managers, although he still has the talent to be a highly productive RB3/flex option, especially in PPR leagues. In addition, the Commanders' signing of Ekeler is going to be bad news for B-Rob's fantasy ceiling.