The running back position presents challenging decisions for fantasy football managers navigating backfields with unclear hierarchies and evolving roles.
New England Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson and Atlanta Falcons RB Tyler Allgeier represent two players whose early-season usage patterns have created questions about their weekly reliability and upside potential. Can either be trusted in Week 3 lineups?
TreVeyon Henderson Fantasy Outlook
Henderson’s role within New England’s backfield has declined from Week 1 to Week 2, creating concerns about his trajectory as the season progresses. His snap share dropped from 35% in the opener against Las Vegas to 32% against Miami, while his target count decreased from six to two across the same span.
The Ohio State product has been unable to earn volume with just eight carries for 37 rushing yards through two games, failing to establish himself as a consistent contributor. His explosiveness and big-play ability remain evident from preseason performances, but translating that success to regular-season action has proven challenging.
Henderson’s struggles in pass protection during Week 2 possibly contributed to coaches losing trust in his ability to handle more responsibilities. He received two holding penalties while attempting to pick up blitzes against Miami, raising questions about his readiness for increased involvement in passing situations.
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Meanwhile, Rhamondre Stevenson’s performance has solidified him as the RB1 for now in New England, particularly after his dominant showing against the Dolphins. Stevenson caught five passes for 88 yards, including a 55-yard gain that demonstrated his receiving ability and after-catch production, further cementing his role ahead of Henderson.
The rookie’s path to consistent touches appears narrower as Stevenson continues to handle the majority of snaps and high-value situations. Without improvement in pass protection and overall efficiency, Henderson risks falling further behind in New England’s backfield hierarchy.
Tyler Allgeier Fantasy Outlook
Allgeier remains firmly entrenched as Atlanta’s RB2 behind workhorse Bijan Robinson, though a positive game script could create enough volume for both backs to contribute meaningfully. He managed 16 carries for 76 yards and a touchdown in Week 2’s victory over Minnesota, demonstrating his ability to capitalize when opportunities arise.
The former BYU standout has totaled 26 carries for 100 yards and one touchdown through two games, averaging 3.8 yards per attempt while serving as Atlanta’s primary backup and short-yardage specialist. His touchdown production provides the scoring upside that fantasy managers seek from their flex options.
Atlanta’s commitment to running the ball has been evident through their early-season approach, particularly when controlling games with leads. The Falcons have utilized a 72% run rate when leading by seven or more points, creating scenarios where both Robinson and Allgeier can accumulate meaningful touches.
Allgeier’s five red zone rushing attempts through two games indicate his continued role in scoring situations, providing touchdown-dependent upside that could deliver weekly fantasy value. His ability to punch in short scores makes him a candidate for multiple touchdowns if Atlanta establishes early leads.
The veteran’s reliability and familiarity with the system keep him ahead of other backfield options, though his ceiling remains capped by Robinson’s dominant role. His 13.5 touches per game through two weeks suggest consistent involvement that could increase with more favorable game scripts.
Should You Start Henderson or Allgeier This Week?
The matchup presents contrasting opportunities for both running backs based on their respective team situations and defensive opponents. Pittsburgh’s defensive struggles create a potentially favorable environment for Henderson, while Atlanta’s approach against Carolina could benefit Allgeier’s touchdown upside.
The Steelers have allowed 149.5 rushing yards per game through two weeks, ranking 27th in the league while surrendering significant production to opposing backfields. They allowed Jets running back Breece Hall to rush for 107 yards on 19 carries in Week 1, followed by Kenneth Walker’s 105 yards on just 13 attempts against Seattle.
Pittsburgh’s defensive line has struggled at the point of contact on nearly every play. The unit has allowed over six yards per play through two games while failing to generate consistent pressure or limit explosive runs, creating opportunities for opposing ground games.
This represents a significant departure from expectations for a Steelers defense that entered the season with championship aspirations. Their struggles defending the run create an environment where Henderson could potentially break out despite his limited role, particularly if New England establishes early success on the ground.
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For Allgeier, the matchup against Carolina presents different advantages based on Atlanta’s offensive approach and game script expectations. The Panthers have allowed significant rushing production while ranking among the league’s worst defenses in multiple categories, potentially leading to a positive game script for the Falcons.
Atlanta’s tendency to lean heavily on its ground game when leading creates scenarios where Allgeier could see 15-plus carries if the Falcons build an early advantage. His red zone role becomes particularly valuable if Atlanta reaches scoring position multiple times throughout the contest.
Henderson faces the additional challenge of limited snaps and reduced trust from his coaching staff, while Allgeier benefits from a clearly defined role within Atlanta’s offensive system. This role security provides Allgeier with a higher floor despite his lower ceiling compared to Henderson’s explosive potential.
Neither player qualifies as a must-start option for Week 3, but both offer different risk-reward profiles for fantasy managers. Henderson provides higher upside potential if he can break through against Pittsburgh’s vulnerable defense, while Allgeier offers more reliable volume and touchdown opportunities within Atlanta’s run-heavy approach.
