Week 17 of the 2025 NFL season will commence with a festive triple-header on Christmas Day, starting with a matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders at 1 p.m. ET, streamed on Netflix.
The Commanders are looking ahead to the end of the season after a challenging 29-18 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles last Saturday. Despite the team’s struggles, running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. has emerged as a bright spot, demonstrating his potential to carry the offensive load moving forward.
Rodriguez showcased his abilities in last week’s game, recording 15 carries for 63 rushing yards and scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter, which helped to narrow the gap on the scoreboard. This performance marked a significant shift, as it was the first time this season that he was on the field for over 50% of the offensive snaps since the team’s bye last month. As a result, fantasy football players should take note of his growing role.
With the current state of the Commanders, Rodriguez’s increased involvement in the game could make him a viable option in fantasy lineups for Week 17. Managers will need to weigh their options carefully but considering his recent performance, he may be worth starting as they look to finish the season on a high note.
Rodriguez’s upward trajectory highlights not only his potential but also offers a glimmer of hope for the Commanders as they navigate the rest of the season.