Who Should I Start? Derrick Henry or Justin Jefferson

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.

Sunday, December 21, 6:12 PM

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson looked more like his old self on Sunday by catching six passes on eight targets for 85 yards despite losing his starting quarterback for the second half in a 16-13 victory against the New York Giants. The superstar receiver had multiple impressive catch-and-runs, made an excellent sideline catch, and was on pace for a big day, but settled for merely a good one after J.J. McCarthy (hand) was lost for the day right before halftime. Still, it was a welcome slump-buster for Jefferson, who caught more than five passes for the first time since Week 9 and surpassed 80 yards for the first time since Week 5. It was a welcome sight for managers who survived the worst three-game stretch of Jefferson's career, but the immediate future looks uncertain. If McCarthy cannot return in time for a Christmas Day showdown against Detroit, undrafted rookie Max Brosmer would be in line for another start.