The 2026 fantasy football season is already sparking intense debate among analysts and enthusiasts, especially at the running back position where early draft decisions can set the tone for a championship run.
Kyren Williams, who has been a reliable RB7, RB7 and RB9 over the past three seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, now faces a shifting role as the team integrates rookie Blake Corum into the backfield.
Early indicators suggest a dip in his usage, with a lower snap share, reduced rush attempt share and fewer routes run, contributing to a drop in PPR points per game from 21.3 in 2023 to 15.5 in 2025.
The Value of Role Security
In contrast, Javonte Williams has latched onto a more stable situation in Dallas, where he has become the clear lead back after a productive stint that saw him finish as the PPR RB12 with 1,201 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns.
His workload appears secure, and his efficiency metrics reinforce the optimism: he ranked fifth in yards after contact per attempt and seventh in forced missed tackles among running backs in 2025, underscoring his ability to generate extra yards.
The combination of a firm role and strong underlying statistics makes Williams an attractive option, especially when compared to a Rams backfield that now shares carries with a promising rookie.
Draft strategists are therefore leaning toward selecting Williams over his counterpart, citing fewer red flags and a more predictable snap count as the season progresses.