Who Should I Start? Josh Jacobs or Kaleb Johnson

Wednesday, May 14, 3:06 PM

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs enjoyed a productive first season with the organization in 2024, rushing 301 times for 1,329 yards and 15 touchdowns to go along with 36 receptions for 342 yards and one score through the air. The former first-round pick out of Alabama looked like he could be headed for a decline in his last of five seasons with the Raiders in 2023, but his improved offensive environment proved to be significant. Packers running back coach Ben Sirmans gave Jacobs praise in a media availability on Wednesday. "He looks even better this year than he did last year at this point," Sirmans said. "His quickness right now, cutting ability going through the drills, he looks better than he did last year at this time." Jacobs finished as the RB5 in half-PPR setups last year, so the positive report is promising heading into next season. He should be firmly in the RB1 mix again for fantasy football purposes.

Thursday, July 31, 9:18 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kaleb Johnson could have his potential fantasy upside capped by limited playing time since he has been struggling in pass protection. Johnson has had a few impressive practices for the Steelers since they drafted him in the third round, and the team even listed him as a co-starter alongside Jaylen Warren. However, he was regularly beaten badly in Mike Tomlin's "Backs on Backers" drills, and his fantasy upside could be reduced if he can't stay on the field in passing situations. He wasn't especially strong in pass protection at Iowa, and he still has a lot of room for improvement based on these early returns. Jaylen Samuels and Kenneth Gainwell are much more proven and trusted pass protectors, which could give them the advantage in playing time since the team will be very careful with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Johnson still has time to improve before Week 1, but it could definitely reduce his role in the timeshare if he continues to struggle in pass protection.