Gus Edwards or J.K. Dobbins: Whom should I draft in Fantasy Football Week 1?

Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins, who were teammates at the Baltimore Ravens, are now with the LA Chargers. The Chargers signed them this season, and the Ravens acquired Derrick Henry.

Some fantasy managers invested in both RBs to ensure they have a starting player throughout the campaign. However, it's unclear which of the two will be the starter each week, as both are jockeying for the RB1 role.

Here's a look at both options:

Gus Edwards at Chargers Training Camp - Source: Getty

Is Gus Edwards a good fantasy pick in Week 1?

There is some risk with both Edwards and Dobbins since it's unclear how Jim Harbaugh will use them. However, on the ESPN LA depth chart, Edwards is listed as the starting running back, which makes him a decent option, even as a flex player.

The LA Chargers might need to pass more if they fall behind, but since they are facing the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday at home, the matchup should be even, making the running game a solid factor. Edwards earned 13 touchdowns last season, so he has a good chance of finding the end zone again this week.

Is J.K. Dobbins a good fantasy pick in Week 1?

J.K. Dobbins' best argument is his yards per carry, averaging 5.7 in 2022 and 6.0 in 2020. However, he had a down year in 2023 with just 2.8. This could put him behind Edwards in Week 1, who averaged 4.1 yards per carry last season.

The team might use a committee, at least early in the season, so getting either player could be a decent option. That said, with a fresh roster, most managers should lean on other running backs rather than Dobbins until more statistics are available.

Gus Edwards vs. J.K. Dobbins: Who should I draft in Fantasy Football?

Gus Edwards has a greater history, has been a starter and has stayed healthier in the past few years. As such, for Week 1, Edwards is the better choice.