Who Should I Start? James Cook or Jahmyr Gibbs


Week 1 Projections

Fant. Pts. Rush. Yds. Rush TD Rec. Rec. Yds. Rec TD
12.8 54.5 0.5 2.0 15.3 0.1

James Cook News

James Cook Wants to Play More on Third Downs

Wednesday, July 30, 8:35 AM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has been pushing for a larger role during the first week of training camp. Cook wants to play more on third downs this season after the team mostly turned to Ty Johnson on passing downs in 2024. Thus far in camp, the Bills haven't appeared interested in changing their offense after getting excellent production from their rushing attack last year. Cook will be a free agent after the season, so he likely wants to show that he can be a three-down back as he has an eye on securing a long-term deal for 2026 and beyond. Cook finished as a low-end RB1 in fantasy in 2024, although he benefited from 16 rushing touchdowns. Fantasy managers can continue to draft Cook as a high-end RB2 in upcoming drafts with the possibility for more if the Buffalo coaching staff decides to throw him the ball a bit more frequently.


Week 1 Projections

Fant. Pts. Rush. Yds. Rush TD Rec. Rec. Yds. Rec TD
14.8 58.3 0.6 2.6 19.2 0.1

Jahmyr Gibbs News

Jahmyr Gibbs Often the First Back on the Field With Starters

Tuesday, July 29, 6:30 PM

The Athletic's Colton Pouncy points out that "one thing that's been clear as these practices have unfolded is that Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is usually the first back on the field with the starters." In past years, David Montgomery would often get the bulk of the first carries of the game before we'd see Gibbs. Pouncy cautions that it could be nothing to read into, but there was a clear pecking order that often translated to games. With Montgomery injured last year, Gibbs couldn't be stopped, totaling 487 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns in the final three games of the regular season. It's now Year 3 for Gibbs, and the Lions have been open about using more two-back sets with both Gibbs and Monty. In addition to being used out of the backfield, Gibbs has also lined up at receiver with Montgomery on the field. It looks like the Lions want Gibbs on the field as much as possible in 2025.


James Cook vs. Jahmyr Gibbs

Still trying to decide between Cook and Gibbs? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that James Cook is projected to score 12.8 points this week while Jahmyr Gibbs is projected to score 14.8 points.