Who Should I Start? Derrick Henry or Jahmyr Gibbs

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.

Friday, December 19, 11:19 PM

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs had a disappointing game in Week 15 against the Los Angeles Rams, totaling just 58 scrimmage yards and failing to reach the end zone on 17 touches. On the bright side, the 23-year-old continues to feature heavily in the Detroit passing game. Gibbs earned seven targets in Week 15 and has seen 38 targets across five games since Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (back) was placed on Injured Reserve with a back injury. In Week 16, Gibbs and the Lions will host the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh's defense profiles as a mid-pack unit against the run, ranking 19th in the NFL in total rushing yards allowed (1,692). Gibbs should continue to see a heavy volume of touches as both a rusher and a receiver, and his big-play ability allows for explosive upside. Fantasy managers can view Gibbs as a must-start running back in Week 16.