Who Should I Start? Tyler Goodson or Israel Abanikanda


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
1.0 4.0 0.1 0.2 1.4 0.0

Tyler Goodson News

Tyler Goodson Impresses Against Former Team

Saturday, August 22, 7:21 PM

Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Goodson had six carries for 59 yards and a touchdown in the 34-6 preseason victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Goodson scored a 49-yard touchdown on the team's second drive, and the former Colts running back had his "return game" as teammates were penalized for storming the field after the long touchdown run. Goodson served as the team's lead back while star Bijan Robinson and backup Brian Robinson Jr. sat out. Goodson played eight of 11 offensive snaps, while 2025 third-string back Nathan Carter played just three snaps. Though it's a long shot that Goodson will have a role in the 2026 season, any injuries to the two starting backs could elevate him to a starting role this year.


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
1.3 8.6 0.1 0.1 0.8 0.0

Israel Abanikanda News

Israel Abanikanda Exceeding Expectations in Cowboys Camp

Friday, August 21, 12:12 PM

Dallas Cowboys running back Israel Abanikanda has exceeded expectations in training camp so far, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. Abanikanda has not appeared in an NFL game since his rookie season in 2023, when he recorded 113 scrimmage yards on 29 touches across six games with the New York Jets. He spent the final portion of the 2025 season on the Cowboys' practice squad and is now competing for a spot on the team's 53-man roster this summer. Dallas has a clear leader in the backfield in running back Javonte Williams. However, the team's RB2 job appears to be an open competition between Jaydon Blue (shoulder), Malik Davis, and Phil Mafah. With all three of those players largely unproven as NFL contributors, Abanikanda may have a chance to work his way into the mix for the Cowboys. In deeper league formats, Abanikanda may be a name for fantasy managers to keep an eye on throughout the remainder of the preseason.


Tyler Goodson vs. Israel Abanikanda

Still trying to decide between Goodson and Abanikanda? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Tyler Goodson is projected to score 1.0 points this week while Israel Abanikanda is projected to score 1.3 points.