David Johnson, Duke Johnson Jr.’s fantasy football outlook Week 6 vs. Titans

Sunday AM update: The Texans will be without tight end Jordan Akins, which could provide greater passing game work for both running backs. Titans defensive lineman Daquon Jones is questionable with a foot injury, which could benefit the ground game. At the same time, the Titans secondary is dealing with a variety of injuries — all but Kevin Byard made an appearance at one point or another on this week’s in-week injury report — and Houston might look to challenge the pass defense further down the field.

After a tough start to the season, the Texans got their first win in Week 5 and will look to build on that heading into a Week 6 match-up with the Titans. The Texans backfield combo of David Johnson and Duke Johnson have only managed a combined two touchdowns on the year thus far. Can we expect that total to increase in Week 6 and are either of these backs worth a spot in your starting lineup? We break down the fantasy analysis below.

Fantasy Football analysis: Texans RBs David Johnson, Duke Johnson Jr.

David Johnson has received the bulk of the workload in the Texans backfield, as he averages 13. 6 carries per game. His share of the workload has even seemed to increase slightly in recent weeks and he racked up an impressive 96 yards on 17 carries (5.6 yards per carry) in his Week 5 performance against Jacksonville. Johnson may be hitting his stride just in time, as the Titans secondary is one to be avoided, and the team may need to look towards beating Houston on the ground.

Dalvin Cook demolished the Titans rush defense for 181 yards on 22 carries in Tennessee’s last game, demonstrating their susceptibility on the ground. The touchdowns are bound to come for Johnson and he deserves a spot in all lineups, as he looks to improve upon his current average of 12.6 points per game. Start Johnson as an RB2 this week.

Duke Johnson Jr. remains the third down back that we are used to seeing year in and year out, but his volume has led to only minimal production thus far this year. He only has four receptions and 13 carries in three games of action. While his pass catching ability helps his value in PPR leagues, his low volume does not provide enough upside to be comfortable inserting him in starting lineups at this point in time. Duke Johnson Jr. is best left on the bench for now.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

Start David Johnson as an RB2

Sit Duke Johnson Jr.