Who Should I Start? Joe Mixon or TreVeyon Henderson

Saturday, July 26, 1:50 PM

Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon (foot), who started training camp on the Non-Football Injury list, is expected to be out for an extended period of time due to a frustrating foot injury, sources tell NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Mixon will be re-evaluated closer to the regular season to determine his availability, but it sounds as though last year's 1,000-yard rusher isn't a lock to be ready for Week 1 in early September. Dameon Pierce (undisclosed) is also on the PUP list, so Houston's backfield is pretty thin early in training camp. As things currently stand, Nick Chubb, who suffered a gruesome leg injury in 2023, is atop the depth chart, with rookie Woody Marks also set for a substantial role if both Mixon and Pierce aren't ready for the season opener. Mixon can do it all when healthy, but his health has now become an issue, and the Texans' shaky offensive line isn't a good combination.

Saturday, August 9, 12:22 AM

New England Patriots rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson registered an 18-yard rush, caught all three of his targets for 12 yards through the air, and delivered a spark with a 100-yard touchdown return during Friday's preseason opener against the Washington Commanders. The Ohio State product wasted no time making a first impression, as his big touchdown return came on the very first play of the game. Although Henderson only played two offensive drives, he was productive both on the ground and through the air, showcasing a blend of volume and efficiency. As the incumbent starter, Rhamondre Stevenson has the early leg up on the competition to be New England's primary running back in Week 1. However, Henderson will continue to be a thorn in Stevenson's side, and nobody would be surprised to see the rookie jump to the top chart by the season opener. At the very least, we expect Henderson to be handling the bulk of the backfield snaps by midseason, especially after the Patriots spent the 38th overall draft pick on him. His rushing ability and blocking skills fit nicely in a Mike Vrabel and Josh McDaniels system, and if Friday's game is any indication, it looks like he'll carve out some targets in the passing game, too. Henderson has low-end RB2 appeal in fantasy drafts given his ceiling, and his dynasty stock is even higher.