Week 1 provided some valuable insights as we look ahead.
1. Derrick Henry is still looking impressive.
2. Travis Etienne is likely to remain a key player after his initial performance.
3. Kenneth Walker’s role may be impacted by Zack Charbonnet, who seems to be taking on more responsibility. These two are sharing touches, but it raises questions about how much better Charbonnet might be.
4. The Steelers’ backfield is quite the puzzle for fantasy players, with Kenny Gainwell and Jalen Warren splitting carries. Warren managed to score a touchdown while getting more touches, but Gainwell has played more snaps, which makes things murky, especially with Caleb Johnson also in the mix.
5. Christian McCaffrey’s calves likely aren’t a concern.
6. Rookie RJ Harvey made a strong impression, rushing six times for 70 yards and playing over half the snaps. Dobbins still looks solid, but Harvey’s role might increase in the near future.
7. The Lions’ backfield was primarily led by Yamir Gibbs, though touches were relatively even until the team fell behind and needed to catch up. David Montgomery had 15 touches compared to Gibbs’ 19 and 10, indicating that he’s not fading away, even when the Lions are ahead.
Shipley was sidelined due to a rib injury, which led the team to trade for Tank Bigsby from the Jaguars. It doesn’t scream confidence in Shipley’s recovery. Bigsby might end up competing for the second running back spot behind Saquon Barkley in Philadelphia, but we’ll have to wait and see.
Austin Ekeler, Commanders
Ekeler has been managing a shoulder issue leading up to Thursday’s game against the Packers and was limited during Monday’s practice. He was active in last Sunday’s win over the Giants, with six carries and three receptions for a total of 57 yards. However, he’s seeing less work than rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, which could be a concern.
Johnson missed the team’s narrow loss to the Vikings and might not be back for another matchup with the Lions this Sunday. D’Andre Swift was the only running back to carry the ball in the opener, so it’s unclear if the same pattern will hold.
Looking ahead, running backs need to be productive, especially if they’re favorites in high-scoring situations. Derrick Henry might be a key player fitting that bill this week.
Jaguar vs. Bengals (49.5)
Packers vs. Commanders (48.5)
Lions vs. Bears (47.5)
Raiders vs. Chargers (46.5)
Chiefs vs. Eagles (46.5)
Highest Projected Team Totals
Ravens (28.5)
Lions (26.5)
Bengals (26.5)
Bills (26.3)
Packers (26)
Steelers vs. Seahawks (39.5)
Texans vs. Buccaneers (42.5)
Colts vs. Broncos (42.5)
Saints vs. 49ers (42.5)
Titans vs. Rams (42.5)
Lowest Projected Team Totals
Browns (17)
Seahawks (18.5)
Titans (18.5)
Panthers (19)
Saints (19)
The Ravens against the Browns (-11.5)
Bills at Jets (-7.0)
Cardinals vs. Panthers (-6.5)
Lions vs. Bears (-5.5)
Cowboys vs. Giants (-5.5)
Titans vs. Rams (-5.5)
Dylan Sampson, Ravens vs. Browns
Sampson contributed significantly as a receiver in week one, catching all eight targets for 64 yards. If he maintains a strong role in the passing game, he could see plenty of opportunities in a matchup where the Ravens are heavy favorites.
Kenneth Gainwell, Steelers vs. Seahawks
Gainwell led the Steelers in snaps during week one, ending up with 10 touches compared to Jalen Warren’s 13. Hopefully, he’s not the only option to start; the waiver wire might be thin this week. But his usage was better than anticipated, making him worth a look if you need running back help.
