Who Should I Start? Derrick Henry or Bucky Irving

Friday, February 27, 8:51 AM

Even entering his age-32 season, Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry remains one of the most dominant players at his position in the NFL. Across 17 games in 2025, Henry recorded 1,595 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns on 307 carries. As Henry continues to age, his ability to handle a large workload while remaining productive is uncertain. However, any signs of significant age-related decline are difficult to spot in his statistical profile. Henry has now played 17 games and recorded over 300 touches in three straight seasons, and has logged over 3,500 rushing yards and 32 rushing touchdowns since joining the Ravens in 2024. Henry's lack of receiving work limits his PPR fantasy upside, as he recorded just 15 receptions on 21 targets in 2025. Still, he appears to be a lock for 1,000-plus rushing yards and double-digit touchdowns in Baltimore as long as he remains healthy. Henry's long-term dynasty value fades with each passing season, but it's hard to bet against him in 2026.

Monday, February 16, 2:21 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (shoulder) had offseason surgery on his shoulder, according to JoeBucsFan.com. Irving missed seven straight games last year from Weeks 5 through 12 with ankle and shoulder injuries. His ankle healed before his shoulder. The good news is that Irving's recovery and rehab are not expected to significantly impact his offseason preparation. Irving had 1,122 rushing yards and 5.4 yards per carry as a rookie in 2024, but his production dropped in Year 2 due to his injuries, as he finished with 588 rushing yards (3.4 yards per carry). The 23-year-old could have a bigger role in Tampa's backfield next season with Rachaad White not expected to return in free agency, although the Bucs will probably prioritize adding RB depth after Irving's injury issues in 2025. Irving will have bounce-back potential for fantasy managers this year, but he'll also carry injury risk as an RB2 target.