Who Should I Start? Jahmyr Gibbs or Kaleb Johnson


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
22.1 84.7 0.9 4.0 29.8 0.2

Jahmyr Gibbs News

Jahmyr Gibbs Should Continue to Excel on a Large Workload

Wednesday, August 26, 9:02 PM

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs has emerged as a superstar in the NFL, ranking as a top-three fantasy running back in each of the last two seasons. The Lions' backfield looks a little different this year now that Isiah Pacheco has replaced David Montgomery, but the vision for Gibbs should look pretty similar. He remains the undisputed lead back, offering a spectacular ability to run the ball, catch passes, score touchdowns, and even block a little. Pacheco should mix in on short-yardage opportunities, but it's worth noting that Montgomery did the same in Detroit, and Gibbs still scored 38 touchdowns over the last two years. In other words, we're not worried at all about Pacheco's presence. In fact, it could help Gibbs over the long run, as it keeps him fresh and healthy for the full 17-game span. He hasn't missed a single regular-season game since his rookie season in 2023. The University of Alabama product ranks as the RB1 in RotoBaller's latest fantasy football rankings for 2026, ahead of even Bijan Robinson and Christian McCaffrey.


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
0.8 5.1 0.0 0.1 0.8 0.0

Kaleb Johnson News

Kaleb Johnson Projected to be Released by Steelers

Thursday, August 27, 7:42 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson is projected to be released within the upcoming weeks, according to a 53-man roster prediction from Mike DeFabo of The Athletic. "Moving on from a third-round pick just one year after he was drafted would be a tough look for the Steelers," DeFabo wrote. "However, that possibility is looking increasingly likely." Johnson was essentially nonexistent on offense as a rookie last year, and he struggled this preseason to the tune of 57 rushing yards on 17 carries (3.1 YPC). Those are subpar numbers, especially for a once-highly-touted running back going up against reserve defenders. DeFabo notes that in addition to the offensive shortcomings, Johnson is replaceable on special teams. He projected that Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle will handle almost all of the offensive snaps, while Travis Homer makes the team as the No. 3 running back with plenty of experience and talent on special teams. If that is the case, Johnson will be the odd man out just one year after being a Day 3 pick. He's tough to trust in dynasty leagues, and he should be avoided in all redraft formats.


Jahmyr Gibbs vs. Kaleb Johnson

Still trying to decide between Gibbs and Johnson? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Jahmyr Gibbs is projected to score 22.1 points this week while Kaleb Johnson is projected to score 0.8 points.