Dylan Sampson vs Kenneth Walker: Who Should You Start?
Dylan Sampson and Kenneth Walker are both viable fantasy running backs heading into 2026, but their 2025 production tells two different stories. Dylan Sampson averaged 4.7 PPG across 15 games with the Cleveland Browns, while Kenneth Walker posted 10.4 PPG in 17 appearances for the Kansas City Chiefs.
A 5.7-PPG gap gives Kenneth Walker the edge on paper, but paper does not account for Thursday night matchups, weather games, or a star defender returning from injury. The real question is not who was better in 2025, but who is the better start this specific week.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Dylan Sampson ran for 175 yards and undefined touchdowns; Kenneth Walker posted 1027 and 5. Goal-line share, red zone touches, and which team is favored are usually the tiebreaker when neither back offers passing-game volume.
One scheduling note: Dylan Sampson is off Week 10 and Kenneth Walker Week 6. 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.
