Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. is likely headed for the No. 3 role in the backfield behind Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler after the team passed on selecting another RB in this year's NFL draft. Rodriguez is the clear early-down backup to Robinson, whether that means five to 10 touches from scrimmage per game or a lower figure. However, he could have a bigger role on special teams if the Commanders view him as part of what looks like a trend of teams seeking bigger-bodied kick returners given the new league rules on kickoffs. The 23-year-old doesn't have a path to any kind of real fantasy value in 2024 unless one of Robinson or Ekeler go down with an injury. In his rookie campaign in 2023, Rodriguez had 51 carries for 247 yards and two touchdowns while catching two passes for 12 yards in 13 regular-season games.

From RotoBaller

The Washington Commanders placed rookie running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (ankle) on Injured Reserve on Thursday, meaning he will miss the final two games of the 2023 season. Rodriguez injured his right ankle in the Week 16 loss to the New York Jets, but not before carrying the ball 10 times for a season-high 58 yards and his first two rushing touchdowns in the NFL. The 23-year-old rookie saw 20 rushing attempts the last two weeks with Brian Robinson Jr. (hamstring) out of action due to injury. Rodriguez finishes his first season in the NFL with 51 carries for 247 yards (4.84 yards per carry) and two TDs while adding two catches for 12 yards in 13 games played. Robinson returned to practice on Wednesday, meaning he could return to share the backfield with pass-catching specialist Antonio Gibson this Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers.

From RotoBaller