Who Should I Start? Derrick Henry or Ashton Jeanty

Saturday, December 20, 8:06 PM

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry faces a tough challenge in the form of the New England Patriots' defense during Sunday Night Football in Week 16. The Patriots have allowed the fewest fantasy points to running backs in 2025, as well as the second-fewest rushing yards. The run-stopping unit has been relentless this year, but this matchup is coming at a convenient time for Henry. New England's defense is short-staffed with linebacker Robert Spillane (ankle) ruled out. Meanwhile, linebacker Harold Landry III (knee) and defensive tackle Christian Barmore (knee) are both questionable. Henry is coming off an impressive two-game stretch, during which he tallied 202 scrimmage yards. However, he hasn't found the end zone since Week 13. The 31-year-old ranks as the overall RB15 in RotoBaller's fantasy football rankings for Week 16. He has top-12 upside, especially if New England's defense is forced to play without Landry, Barmore, or both.

Saturday, December 13, 12:27 AM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty could handle increased volume in Week 15 against the Philadelphia Eagles, and he should benefit from this favorable matchup against a below-average run defense. The Raiders will be starting quarterback Kenny Pickett over Geno Smith (back, shoulder) this week, and this quarterback downgrade could prompt Las Vegas to throw the ball less and run the ball more. It could also lead to more checkdowns and fewer passes deep downfield. All of this bodes well for Jeanty, who is averaging 14.7 carries and 3.5 catches per game while ranking as the overall RB14 in PPR leagues. Not only do we think he could handle more than 20 touches in an offensive game plan centered around rushing attempts and short passes, but Jeanty should also benefit from a favorable matchup. Philadelphia has allowed the eighth-most fantasy points, fifth-most receiving yards, and second-most receiving touchdowns to opposing running backs in 2025. This promising opportunity gives Jeanty top-12 running back upside for Week 15.