Who Should I Start? Rhamondre Stevenson or Quinshon Judkins

Tuesday, September 16, 10:59 AM

New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson continues to operate as the lead back in New England. Stevenson delivered a strong Week 2 performance against the Miami Dolphins, rushing 11 times for 54 yards while adding five receptions for 88 yards. With rookie TreVeyon Henderson struggling in pass protection, Stevenson has reclaimed a significant role, logging 66% of the snaps and running a route on 43% of dropbacks through two weeks. The Patriots now face the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3, a defense that has already allowed 100-yard rushing games to both Breece Hall and Kenneth Walker, despite neither reaching 20 carries. Stevenson projects as a mid-range RB3 and a solid FLEX play against a vulnerable Steelers run defense.

Tuesday, September 16, 7:32 PM

Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins has been listed as the team's starting back on this week's depth chart. The rookie played just 26% of the snaps in Week 2 but was effective with his touches, rushing 10 times for 66 yards in his NFL debut. Judkins signed his rookie deal shortly before Week 1 and eased into action against the Baltimore Ravens, but being elevated to the top of the depth chart is an encouraging sign for his role going forward. That said, Week 3 sets up as a tough spot. The Browns face the Green Bay Packers, who have been one of the league's stingiest defenses to start the season. With a negative game script possible, Judkins should be viewed as a low-end FLEX option in deeper leagues this week, though his long-term outlook is trending up.