Who Should I Start? Julius Chestnut or Will Shipley

Saturday, October 4, 12:57 AM

Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut could be headed for a reduced workload in Week 5 despite a favorable matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Chestnut has operated as a backup to Tony Pollard through the first four weeks of the season. While his usage has been relatively modest given that Pollard leads all NFL running backs in snap share, Chestnut has still been his backup and did see the field in every game, logging five total carries. That marginal usage could drop to no usage as soon as Tyjae Spears (ankle) returns to game action. Spears is currently on injured reserve but has been designated to return and is questionable for Week 5. Chestnut's already limited opportunity share would surely disappear entirely as soon as another reliable, proven player like Spears is added to the backfield. If Spears plays Sunday, Chestnut, 24, might not touch the ball. Even if he remains on IR, though, the Sacred Heart product is due for just a couple of touches and remains off the fantasy radar.

Monday, October 27, 10:53 PM

Philadelphia Eagles running back Will Shipley has seen very limited usage so far in the 2025 season. Across six games played, the 23-year-old has recorded 39 yards from scrimmage on nine total touches. However, there may be an opportunity for playing time in Philadelphia's backfield after star running back Saquon Barkley (groin) was forced to exit early from the team's Week 8 win over the New York Giants due to a groin injury. The Eagles have their bye in Week 9, and there's been no indication from the team that Barkley will not be ready to play in Week 10 against the Green Bay Packers. Further complicating matters, Shipley may be behind Eagles running back Tank Bigsby, even if Barkley misses time. Still, Shipley is worthy of waiver-wire consideration until there's more clarity around Barkley's health status. Shipley should be rostered in all fantasy leagues with 10 or more teams.