Bucky Irving vs Derrick Henry: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between Bucky Irving and Derrick Henry is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back put up 12.3 PPG in 2025 over 10 games; Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens averaged 16.0 in 17. A 3.7-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 3.7 points favors Derrick Henry, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one running back to the other.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Bucky Irving ran for 588 yards and 1 touchdowns; Derrick Henry posted 1595 and 16. Goal-line share, red zone touches, and which team is favored are usually the tiebreaker when neither back offers passing-game volume.
Bye weeks matter for roster construction: Bucky Irving sits Week 11 while Derrick Henry is off Week 14. If you are deciding between the two as a season-long roster hold, the staggered byes actually work in your favor.
