Who Should I Start? Kareem Hunt or Ty Johnson

Wednesday, December 24, 4:05 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt has been relegated to a reserve role in the offense since Isiah Pacheco has taken over RB1 duties. Hunt handled just three carries for two yards in last week's loss to the Tennessee Titans. Hunt was also not targeted at all in the passing game. The veteran back was most valuable for his role at the goal-line, but without Patrick Mahomes, Rashee Rice, and Tyquan Thornton helping to move the sticks, the goal-line opportunities could be scarce. Hunt will also have to contend with the Denver Broncos defense on Christmas in Week 17. The Broncos have allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs and the second-fewest rushing yards per game this season. Facing one of the toughest defenses in the league with limited opportunities is a recipe for failure. Hunt is ranked QB50 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings, making him nothing more than a desperation flex in the deepest of leagues.

Saturday, December 20, 10:31 AM

Buffalo Bills running back Ty Johnson carried the ball four times for 13 yards and added 15 receiving yards on three catches against the New England Patriots. Johnson entered the 2025 season as the expected RB3, behind James Cook and second-year back Ray Davis. However, Johnson's receiving ability has earned him more snaps than Davis, outsnapping him 29% to 12% on the season. He faces a Cleveland Browns defense that has ranked middle-of-the-pack against running backs this season but has struggled to slow down Tony Pollard and D'Andre Swift in back-to-back weeks. While Johnson carries a safe floor with his strong skill set in the receiving game, his upside is capped by Cook's dominance of touches. Johnson should be out of starting lineups in fantasy leagues this week.