Who Should I Start? TreVeyon Henderson or Kaleb Johnson

Wednesday, June 18, 12:16 PM

The Athletic's Chad Graff offers skepticism as to whether New England Patriots rookie second-round running back TreVeyon Henderson can be a true bell-cow back in the future, mainly given his injury history. Henderson suffered a broken foot as a sophomore at Ohio State, which required surgery, and then missed more time as a junior with an undisclosed injury. He's also a bit undersized for a RB at 5-foot-10, 202 pounds. But the 22-year-old was a second-rounder because he has blazing speed and big-play ability, which the Patriots have been lacking at the position. Henderson is a true home run threat who can make plays as a receiver and as a runner. His development between the tackles will be something to watch, although most of that work will go to Rhamondre Stevenson in 2025. Henderson will have more value as a high-end RB3 in PPR leagues in his first year in the NFL.

Monday, May 12, 12:07 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie third-round running back Kaleb Johnson knows he must improve his pass-blocking skills if he wants to earn the coaching staff's trust with the hope of becoming an "every-down back" sooner than later. At 6-foot-1, 225 pounds, Johnson led the Big Ten in rushing yards (1,537), rushing touchdowns (21) and all-purpose yards (1,725) at Iowa in 2024. He's a scheme fit for Pittsburgh's zone-centric offense given his efficient production, writes The Athletic's Mike DeFabo. Even if the 21-year-old doesn't catch a ton of passes, he could stand out in fantasy with his big-play ability. There's opportunity in the Steel City, too, with Najee Harris no longer in town. Johnson is likely going to share touches with Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell, but he probably has the highest fantasy upside of the trio already.