In what may be an NFL first, the Commanders' backfield now includes a former sixth-round draft pick (Kaytron Allen), a former seventh-rounder (Jacory Croskey-Merritt), and a recently re-signed former UDFA (the legendary Austin Ekeler). What should fantasy managers expect heading into Sunday?
Among the 113 retired running backs drafted in the seventh round over the past 30 years, average career fantasy production was 85 points. Among the 98 retired sixth-rounders, it's 126 points. Among the 264 retired UDFAs, it's 131 points. Ekeler is currently #2 on the post-1995 UDFA career fantasy production list with 1,797.3 points. The advantage undrafted free agents have (on average) doesn't even include his remarkable achievements.
Some fantasy managers
might assume Rachaad White's injury opens the door for Croskey-Merritt to become a bell cow. Others might feel tempted to snag Ekeler and roll with one of the most prolific per-touch fantasy RBs of the past decade.
Keep in mind that Croskey-Merritt's efficiency has been near rock bottom through three games. He's averaging 3.0 yards per carry and hasn't broken a tackle. His lead-back role last year and early this season does not guarantee him a rest-of-season role. That's the nature of former seventh-round picks; they rarely sustain relevant fantasy numbers.
If you want to play it safe, keep rolling with Croskey-Merritt for now. If you have a soft spot for Ekeler, take a flyer on the almost-retired former fantasy star. If you want to take a shot on the team's highest-upside active RB, give the rookie Allen -- a former college bell cow -- a much closer look.
For a deeper dive into Ekeler, Croskey-Merritt, and Allen, check out this recent podcast episode.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Austin Ekeler fantasy impact on Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Kaytron Allen
