Who Should I Start? Raheem Mostert or Rico Dowdle

Saturday, January 4, 3:58 PM

Miami Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert has had a disappointing 2024 campaign. The 2023 rushing touchdown leader has only scored two all year, and his carries have taken a drastic hit due to some fumble troubles in the middle of the season. Overall, the Miami offense has found running the football challenging this year, ranking 24th in rushing yards per game. Week 18 presents a matchup with the New York Jets, who have been solid at defending opposing running backs. They rank 12th in fantasy points allowed to running backs. That, combined with the run-blocking inconsistencies of the Miami offensive line, makes Mostert a sit for Week 18.

Sunday, January 5, 9:23 PM

Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle rushed 22 times for 72 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's Week 18 loss to the Washington Commanders. He also caught two of his three targets for an additional 12 yards through the air. Dowdle was quite impressive throughout the 2024 season, supplanting Ezekiel Elliott as the Cowboys' undisputed No. 1 running back. He finished the campaign with 1,079 rushing yards, 249 receiving yards, and five total touchdowns through 16 games, ranking as a low-end RB2 in fantasy football. There has been plenty of speculation that the Cowboys could take an aggressive approach with their pursuit of a running back this offseason, such as drafting Ashton Jeanty. However, there's also a real possibility they feel confident in Dowdle and don't take as big of a swing for a backfield addition within the upcoming months. The 26-year-old currently still has appeal as a mid-range RB3 option heading into the 2025 campaign, and until Dallas brings in competition, this backfield belongs to Dowdle.