Who Should I Start? Saquon Barkley or Juwan Johnson

Monday, March 11, 2:57 PM

Free-agent running back Saquon Barkley is signing with the Philadelphia Eagles on a three-year, $37.75 million deal. The deal includes $26 million in guaranteed money and has an additional $9 million available in incentives. After a 2018 rookie season that saw the former Penn State star go for over 2,000 yards from scrimmage and 15 touchdowns, he has struggled to stay healthy over a chunk of the next five years of his career. He missed 21 games from 2019 to 2021. He bounced back in 2022 with 1,312 rushing yards but regressed to 962 yards in 14 games in 2023. However, the Eagles believe in him as a game-changing running back, as his average salary ($12.58 million) ranks only below Christian McCaffrey, Alvin Kamara, and Jonathan Taylor. Although the Eagles' offensive line could take a hit after the retirement of Jason Kelce, Barkley should be playing behind the best offensive line of his career in 2024. He will have an immediate high-end RB1 upside in fantasy football.

Sunday, January 7, 11:36 AM

New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson (chest) is officially active for Week 18 against the Atlanta Falcons. He'll suit up for the regular-season finale despite being listed as questionable. The 27-year-old has looked great lately, catching 14 passes for 172 yards and three touchdowns over his last three games. He had one of the best games of his career last week, commanding 12 targets while amassing 90 yards. Although he hasn't been a consistent performer this season, his recent success makes him a worthwhile option in fantasy football. Managers should view him as a fringe TE1 option given his low floor and high ceiling.