Who Should I Start? Justice Hill or Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Friday, September 5, 9:41 PM

Baltimore Ravens running back Justice Hill is set to reprise his role as the pass-catching back this season after one of his best years in 2024. Throughout the 2024 season, Hill saw 42% of the offensive snaps, and he received 47 carries compared to 51 targets during those opportunities. His average depth of target was -0.5, so most of his work through the air came on dump-offs and screen plays. He's likely to see a lot more of the same as long as Derrick Henry is healthy. He's currently ranked around RB68 in the RotoBaller Week 1 rankings with a projected 3.7 fantasy points against the Buffalo Bills in PPR leagues. So, those in standard-sized leagues can look to better options in Week 1.

Saturday, September 6, 1:00 AM

Washington Commanders rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt's role in the backfield is still unclear for Week 1 against the Giants. Croskey-Merritt, or who many now refer to as "Bill," was recently listed as RB4 on the team's unofficial depth chart. It becomes a question of whether the Washington coaching staff opts to keep four running backs active on gameday. Austin Ekeler will be in line to see most of the snaps, while Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jeremy McNichols could also be in the mix for touches and play special teams. He is the most explosive and shifty runner in Washington's running back room, which should lead to some touches even if he isn't the starter right away. Croskey-Merritt has been one of the more trendy names of draft season, and he is one of the better upside picks to take. However, the usage is tough to predict for Week 1 and should likely stay on benches.