Dylan Sampson vs Kenneth Gainwell: Who Should You Start?
There is a real production gap between these two running backs. Kenneth Gainwell (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) averaged 10.9 PPG over 17 games in 2025, outscoring Dylan Sampson (Cleveland Browns, 4.7 PPG) by 6.2 points per week. That separation would need a significant matchup swing to overcome.
The per-game difference of 6.2 points favors Kenneth Gainwell, 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.
Kenneth Gainwell is the receiving back in this matchup, turning 73 targets into 486 yards, while Dylan Sampson profiles as a more traditional rusher with 175 rushing yards and undefined touchdowns. In PPR and half-PPR formats Kenneth Gainwell carries the higher weekly floor. In standard leagues the gap tightens considerably.
One scheduling note: Dylan Sampson is off Week 10 and Kenneth Gainwell Week 11. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in running back for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
