Who Should I Start? Julius Chestnut or DJ Giddens

Wednesday, September 3, 9:43 AM

Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut has been listed as the team's RB2 to start the season. With Tyjae Spears opening the year on injured reserve, the fourth-year back holds the backup role ahead of 2025 sixth-round pick Kalel Mullings. Through his first three seasons, Chestnut has appeared in 26 games, recording just 31 carries for 114 yards, but now steps into an expanded opportunity. Chestnut will serve as the primary backup behind veteran Tony Pollard until Spears returns. While he remains a non-factor for fantasy purposes, especially in a tough Week 1 matchup against the Denver Broncos' defense, this promotion reflects Chestnut's growth within the organization and solidifies his place on the Titans' depth chart.

Sunday, August 31, 3:25 PM

Indianapolis Colts rookie running back DJ Giddens remains third on the depth chart despite a strong training camp and decent preseason. The 22-year-old rookie, drafted in the fifth round out of Kansas State, is currently listed behind starter Jonathan Taylor and Tyler Goodson (elbow). Last year in college, Giddens rushed for 1,343 yards on 205 carries, averaging an impressive 6.6 yards per attempt, and also caught 21 passes for 258 yards and a touchdown. His preseason stats of 18 carries for 67 yards (3.7 YPC) and one nine-yard reception are less impressive. RotoBaller ranks Giddens as RB61, making him a potential late-round stash with upside. Taylor has a history of injuries, missing 16 games over the past three seasons. Goodson is also dealing with an elbow injury, and Giddens could see a significant workload increase if either misses time. The fifth-round pick is a must-add handcuff for Taylor managers and a strong late-round target in deeper leagues, with the potential to step into a starting role if injuries happen.