Who Should I Start? Samaje Perine or Kimani Vidal

Tuesday, December 30, 2:11 PM

Cincinnati Bengals running back Samaje Perine has finished as a low-end RB2 in each of the past two weeks without cracking a 40% snap share. If the Bengals opt to rest or limit their starters, including the surging Chase Brown, Perine could be in line for a solid workload in a Week 18 matchup against the Browns with nothing but divisional pride on the line. Even if Perine maintains only his usual change of pace and mop-up duties, he has enough of a floor to keep him in consideration for a flex role against a Cleveland defense that just allowed 131 yards on the ground to a Steelers offense with no threat of a passing attack. Readily available on most waiver wires, Perine should be a top priority in any league with a Week 18 title game.

Wednesday, February 11, 6:59 AM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal emerged as a viable NFL rusher in 2025, recording 643 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 155 carries across 13 games played (10 starts). Vidal was thrust into a feature role in the Chargers' backfield early in the season after Los Angeles backs Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris went on Injured Reserve with ankle and Achilles injuries, respectively. A first-round draft pick in 2025, Hampton looks like the long-term RB1 in Los Angeles as long as he can return to full health in 2026 and beyond. However, Vidal may have done enough in 2025 to prove he is worthy of maintaining a role alongside Hampton. Additionally, the Chargers have brought in former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel as their offensive coordinator heading into 2026. In his time in Miami, McDaniel's best offenses supported quality fantasy production from multiple running backs. Vidal's dynasty upside is limited by Hampton's presence, but he still may be worth rostering as a solid handcuff option with some level of standalone appeal.