The fantasy football season hinges on making the right decisions, and picking your starting running back can be a real nail-biter. This season, two powerhouses are going head-to-head in the minds of fantasy owners: Derrick Henry and Rhamondre Stevenson. Who will dominate the gridiron and lead your fantasy team to victory? Let’s break down their strengths, weaknesses, and potential to help you make the smart choice.
Derrick Henry: The King of Consistency
Derrick Henry is a force of nature, a true workhorse back with a knack for racking up yards. His bruising running style is enough to strike fear into the hearts of defenders, and his consistency is music to the ears of fantasy owners.
Strengths:
- Volume King: Henry is known for his heavy workload, consistently seeing 20+ carries a game. More touches equal more opportunities for yards and touchdowns.
- Goal-Line Dominance: When the offense is knocking on the door of the endzone, you can bet Henry will get the call. He’s a touchdown machine, consistently finding pay dirt.
- Durability: Henry has been a model of consistency, rarely missing games due to injury. Having a reliable player you can pencil into your lineup week after week is invaluable.
Weaknesses:
- Limited Receiving Upside: While Henry can catch the ball, he’s not known for being a dynamic receiving back. In an era of pass-heavy offenses, this could limit his overall fantasy ceiling.
- Age and Mileage: While still a dominant force, Henry has logged a lot of carries in his career. Will father time catch up to him this season, potentially impacting his production?
Rhamondre Stevenson: The Versatile Playmaker
Rhamondre Stevenson is a rising star in the NFL, a versatile back who can hurt defenses both on the ground and through the air. His ability to contribute in all facets of the game makes him a valuable asset in PPR (Points Per Reception) leagues.
Strengths:
- Dual-Threat Ability: Stevenson is equally adept at running the ball and catching it out of the backfield. This versatility gives him a high floor in PPR leagues, as he can rack up points even if he’s not finding the endzone.
- Big Play Potential: Stevenson has the speed and elusiveness to break off big runs, making him a threat to score from anywhere on the field.
- Favorable Offensive System: Stevenson plays in an offensive system that is likely to feature him heavily, giving him ample opportunities to shine.
Weaknesses:
- Competition for Touches: The Patriots have other capable backs on the roster, which could lead to a timeshare and limit Stevenson’s overall touches.
- Injury History: Stevenson has dealt with some minor injuries in the past. His ability to stay healthy throughout the season will be crucial to his fantasy value.
Rhamondre Stevenson scores a touchdown reception
The Verdict: Who Should You Draft?
Choosing between Derrick Henry and Rhamondre Stevenson is a tough call, as both players possess immense talent and fantasy upside.
If you’re looking for a consistent, high-volume back who will get you touchdowns: Derrick Henry is your guy. His proven track record and workhorse role make him a safe bet for RB1 production.
If you’re in a PPR league and prioritize versatility and upside: Rhamondre Stevenson is the better choice. His ability to contribute as a runner and receiver gives him a high floor, while his big-play potential makes him a threat to win you your week.
Ultimately, the best choice for your fantasy team depends on your league settings, risk tolerance, and draft position.