Dylan Sampson vs Josh Jacobs: Who Should You Start?
There is a real production gap between these two running backs. Josh Jacobs (Green Bay Packers) averaged 14.6 PPG over 15 games in 2025, outscoring Dylan Sampson (Cleveland Browns, 4.7 PPG) by 9.9 points per week. That separation would need a significant matchup swing to overcome.
That 9.9-point weekly advantage for Josh Jacobs is meaningful but not automatic. Fantasy football is a week-to-week sport, and the answer to "who should I start" often changes based on opponent, recent form, and game environment. Season averages set the baseline; weekly context makes the call.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Dylan Sampson ran for 175 yards and undefined touchdowns; Josh Jacobs posted 929 and 13. Goal-line share, red zone touches, and which team is favored are usually the tiebreaker when neither back offers passing-game volume.
Both share a Week 10 bye, which matters for roster construction. If you are stacking running backs this deep on your bench, plan your replacement running back early.
