Jaylen Warren vs Jayden Daniels

“Warren has been the one constant in Pittsburgh’s backfield over the last several years. He’s answered the bell when called on to do whatever has been needed of him. Through the years, he’s become a solid, well-rounded back who can really do it all.”

“Warren profiles more as the pass catcher and security blanket for Rodgers, but his inefficiency around the goal line may have him giving up those valuable touches to Dowdle, who, despite a small sample size, was extremely effective.”

“Jaylen Warren is a favorite draft target in the seventh round based on ADP.”

“Jaylen Warren should be a target magnet for Aaron Rodgers and is more of an elite playmaker than the newly acquired Rico Dowdle.”

“They swapped in Rico Dowdle for Kenneth Gainwell, and the incoming running back is a better stylistic complement to incumbent Jaylen Warren.”

“Pat Fitzmaurice argued that Warren's pass-catching ability, pass protection skills, and overall versatility make him a strong fit for Pittsburgh's offense. If that role expands further, his current draft cost could become one of the better values at running back.”

“Warren is coming off a career year, but Dowdle handled 236 carries last season and was similarly effective, making this backfield harder to predict. Part of Warren's fantasy appeal is his receiving skill, but Dowdle is no slouch in that department. He caught 39 passes in back-to-back seasons while also rushing for 1,000 yards, something Warren hasn't done.”

“You can take your pick of this backfield between Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, who both finished as fantasy studs last season. My money is on Warren turning into a dud. Dowdle brings more competition for early-down work than Kenneth Gainwell did.”

“Warren has the type of pass-catching profile that ages a bit more gracefully than his "grinder" running back brethren. Since 2023, Warren has been in the top 10 among all running backs in yards per route run (YPRR). In addition to being the presumed early-down back, he is set up to also be the primary passing option out of the backfield this year for an aging Aaron Rodgers.”

“Warren is just flat out the better blocker and receiver, and Warren likely would have the better shot at RB1 upside in PPR.”

“Warren's pass-catching abilities (40 receptions, 333 yards, two TDs) make him uniquely suited to take the Gainwell role in Pittsburgh's scheme.”

“Warren also finished as the overall RB17 in full-PPR leagues last season despite sharing touches with Kenneth Gainwell, who has since signed with Tampa Bay.”

“Going from Cam Ward to Jayden Daniels this year is an upgrade at the quarterback position, which only strengthens his chances at cracking the top 12”

“Lamar Jackson , Jayden Daniels , Joe Burrow , Baker Mayfield , and Kyler Murray all were selected as top-12 players at the position and finished double-digit slots behind expectations in terms of points per game.”

“The rushing upside of Jayden Daniels tempted me, but the Bengals’ schedule should be excellent for Burrow and the passing attack.”

“After a sublime 2024 rookie season in which he threw for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns, ran for 891 yards and six touchdowns, and was named Offensive Rookie of the Year, Daniels played only seven games in 2025 due to elbow, knee and ankle injuries. When he was healthy, Daniels was a far less efficient passer than he had been in 2024, averaging only 6.7 yards per pass attempt and completing 60.6% of his throws in 2025 (down from 7.4 YPA and a 69.0% completion rate as a rookie).”

“Von Miller spoke about choosing the Commanders, saying "with the Washington Commanders, I just felt like Jayden Daniels was poised for another great season. His rookie season went all the way to the NFC Championship, and last year, he got hit with injuries, not just at the quarterback position, but all over the place."”

“With Terry McLaurin limited to 10 games last season, Deebo Samuel and Zach Ertz were the top two target options in the offense. Neither has been re-signed, and both remain free agents. After last year's injuries and less proven talent around him, the risk far outweighs the reward of selecting Daniels at his current ADP.”

“When Daniels did play a complete game, he was still productive for fantasy. In those weeks, he posted 19.6 fantasy points per game, which would have been QB7 for the season. He scored at least 15 fantasy points in six of his seven appearances, showing he still has a high floor.”

“Assuming he can see time on the field in that same role with Jayden Daniels at quarterback, he will generate significant fantasy points with his efficiency.”

“Washington's fortunes revolve around the health of Jayden Daniels. The positive is that before injuries derailed his 2025 season, he still flashed franchise-quarterback traits, and the team was competitive.”

“Daniels struggled with knee, hamstring and elbow injuries last season, and his durability is going to be in question until he can stay healthy for 17 games across multiple seasons. However, as long as he's healthy, Daniels brings the kind of rushing upside that only a handful of quarterbacks can match.”

“Jayden Daniels was a disappointment even before he got hurt. His passing numbers were down, and he only averaged 39.7 rushing yards per game prior to his injury.”

“Jayden Daniels started only seven games. A healthier season at quarterback should allow them to close the turnover margin this season.”