Who Should I Start? MarShawn Lloyd or Chris Rodriguez Jr.

Friday, December 5, 5:12 PM

Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (calf) has been ruled out and will not come off Injured Reserve to play on Sunday at Lambeau Field against the division-rival Chicago Bears in Week 14, according to the team. Lloyd finally returned to practice for the first time earlier this week, but he's not ready to play in games just yet. The 24-year-old former third-round pick in 2024 out of USC hasn't played at all this season and managed to suit up in just one game in his rookie campaign last year due to injuries. He has reportedly put in plenty of time and effort to get his body right so that he can hopefully put his injuries in the rearview mirror for good. The Packers had high hopes for Lloyd when they drafted him, but he just hasn't been able to stay on the field. It's unclear how much more time he'll need, but when he is activated from IR, he'll merely be vying for a backup role alongside Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks behind starter Josh Jacobs.

Monday, December 8, 10:02 AM

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. rushed for 52 yards on 10 carries in the Commanders' 31-0 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. He was the only somewhat bright spot in what was a really tough afternoon for the Commanders team. Rodriguez has performed well of late, scoring nine or more fantasy points in three of his last five games, but has limited upside because he is not earning any of the running back receiving work, is touchdown dependent, and projects for 10-15 carries depending on game flow. In Week 14, the Commanders fell behind early to the Vikings, and he never really got much of a chance later in the game. Week 15 presents a good opportunity for Rodriguez, as the Commanders travel to New York to take on the Giants, who allow the second-most points to opposing running backs on the season. Due to his projected volume and limited receiving floor, Rodriguez will be an RB3 heading into Week 15, and should not be on the waiver wire in most 12 or more team formats.