The age-old fantasy football dilemma: choosing between two powerhouse running backs, Derrick Henry and Joe Mixon. Both have consistently ranked among the league’s best, offering a tantalizing blend of power and finesse. But when it comes to drafting for your fantasy team, who reigns supreme?
Derrick Henry, the “King” of Tennessee, is a physical marvel. His combination of size and speed makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. When Henry gets going, it’s like a runaway train, leaving defenders grasping at air. He’s a true workhorse back, capable of carrying the load and delivering consistent yardage.
On the other hand, Joe Mixon is a more versatile back, excelling in both rushing and receiving. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds an extra dimension to his game, making him a valuable asset in PPR (Point Per Reception) leagues. Mixon is known for his agility and vision, finding holes and making defenders miss in tight spaces.
So, who should you draft?
Analyzing the Stats: Yards, Touchdowns, and Fantasy Points
Examining their recent seasons reveals some telling insights:
- Derrick Henry: Over the past few seasons, Henry has been a touchdown machine. His ability to find the endzone, coupled with his high volume of carries, has made him a consistent top-five fantasy running back.
- Joe Mixon: While not reaching the same touchdown peaks as Henry, Mixon offers more consistency in yardage and receptions. His involvement in the passing game provides a higher floor in fantasy points, even in games where touchdowns are scarce.
Injury Concerns and Durability
- Derrick Henry: One concern with Henry is his heavy workload, which has led to some injury concerns in the past. Fantasy managers must weigh the risk of potential injury against his undeniable upside.
- Joe Mixon: Mixon has also faced his share of injuries, leading to some missed games. However, his workload is generally considered more manageable than Henry’s, potentially mitigating the risk of injury.
Supporting Cast and Offensive Schemes
- Derrick Henry: The Titans’ offense is built around Henry’s powerful running style. They rely on a strong offensive line and play-action passing to open up running lanes for their star back.
- Joe Mixon: Mixon benefits from playing in a more pass-happy offense in Cincinnati. While this may lead to fewer carries, it also creates opportunities for receptions and touchdowns in the red zone.
The Verdict: Weighing the Options
Ultimately, the decision between Derrick Henry and Joe Mixon depends on your fantasy football draft strategy and risk tolerance:
- High-Risk, High-Reward: If you’re willing to gamble on Henry staying healthy, his touchdown potential makes him a league-winning draft pick.
- Balanced Approach: If you prefer a more balanced approach, Mixon’s consistency and involvement in the passing game offer a safer floor for your fantasy team.
Fantasy Football Draft Board highlighting running back selections
No matter who you choose, both Derrick Henry and Joe Mixon are exceptional running backs capable of leading your fantasy team to victory.