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

Thursday, October 23, 12:57 PM

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said last week that running back MarShawn Lloyd (hamstring), who has been on Injured Reserve for the first seven weeks, was getting closer to practicing. However, the team still has not designated Lloyd to return from IR, and he has not resumed practicing with the team as they prepare this week for a Sunday night battle with the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 8. Perhaps Lloyd will have his 21-day practice window opened next week, but even then, he wouldn't be a lock to make his 2025 debut in Week 9 against the Carolina Panthers. There have been rumors that the Packers are making calls ahead of the trade deadline on RBs, so maybe Lloyd isn't as close to a return as the Packers are leading on. The former third-rounder has been a major bust for the Packers so far due to injuries, playing in just one game since the start of last year.

Saturday, October 25, 8:23 PM

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. got back into the rotation in Week 7 against the Dallas Cowboys, handling three carries for 12 yards and scoring his first touchdown of the season. The touchdown came in garbage time, but it was an impressive play to reach across the goal line. Rodriguez played only one offensive snap in Week 6 against the Bears, but that could have been more related to his health, as he didn't practice at all during the week leading up to the game. He was cleared from the injury report ahead of Week 7 and should be all set for Monday night against the Chiefs. The 25-year-old has played almost exclusively on early downs this season for Washington and could mix in more with rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt going forward. Rodriguez is a better play in standard leagues because he doesn't add much as a receiver. He could find success if he gets enough opportunities against a Chiefs run defense that ranks 22nd in rush success rate (42.6%).