Who Should I Start? Rico Dowdle or Jordan Whittington

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.

Sunday, January 5, 8:11 PM

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Jordan Whittington fell just short of 100 yards rushing plus receiving in the regular season finale of his rookie season. While Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp rested for the playoffs, he posted a team-high 86 yards by catching three of four targets from backup QB Jimmy Garoppolo. The former Longhorn also added 12 rushing yards on two carries. Whittington wasn't heavily targeted but made the most of his chances, highlighted by hauling in a 50-yard reception that helped give the Rams a late lead. While the team came up just short in the end against the Seahawks, Whittington continued to show the potential to contribute as a depth option and possibly figure into the Rams' future plans at the position.