Who Should I Start? Raheem Mostert or Chris Rodriguez Jr.

Friday, October 10, 7:33 PM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Raheem Mostert struggled to make an impact in his change-of-pace role during Week 5, totaling just 22 yards on a season-high seven touches. While the 33-year-old veteran still flashes big-play ability--highlighted by a 37-yard run against the Bears earlier this year--his current workload leaves him well outside fantasy relevance. Mostert should be viewed strictly as a handcuff to rookie standout Ashton Jeanty, who has firmly established himself as the lead back. Still, with Dylan Laube and Zamir White buried on the depth chart, Mostert remains the clear next man up if Jeanty were to miss time. For now, he's best left on the waiver wire outside of deeper leagues or as insurance for Jeanty managers looking to protect one of fantasy's rising assets.

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%).