Who Should I Start? Malik Davis or Cody Schrader

Friday, January 2, 4:57 PM

Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis (calf, eye) has been ruled out for the Week 18 regular-season finale on Sunday against the division-rival New York Giants, according to The Athletic's Jon Machota. Javonte Williams (neck, shoulder) has also been ruled out, so rookie Jaydon Blue will see by far the most playing time he's had all season long to close things out. The 27-year-old Davis will finish his 2025 campaign on a high note after carrying the ball 20 times for 103 yards in the Christmas Day win over the Washington Commanders in Week 17. He took over around midseason as the No. 2 back behind Williams and never let go. Davis could be in line for an even bigger role in 2026 if the Cowboys don't re-sign Williams. Davis finishes his third NFL season with 250 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 52 rushing attempts, adding two receptions for 16 yards in 10 games played.

Saturday, August 16, 11:48 PM

Los Angeles Rams running back Cody Schrader rushed for 48 yards on 13 carries during Saturday's preseason win over the Los Angeles Chargers. He also caught two of his three targets for an additional 24 receiving yards. Through two preseason games, Schrader has a total of 140 yards. The Missouri product entered this preseason on the outside looking in. He still faces an uphill battle to make the team, as Kyren Williams, Jarquez Hunter, and Blake Corum are essentially roster locks. However, if Los Angeles opts to carry four running backs, Schrader has made a case for himself over Ronnie Rivers. Regardless of Los Angeles' final roster decisions, Schrader will be several rungs away from an impactful role. He should be left on waivers in all fantasy leagues.