Kenneth Gainwell vs Michael Carter: Who Should You Start?
Kenneth Gainwell and Michael Carter are both viable fantasy running backs heading into 2026, but their 2025 production tells two different stories. Kenneth Gainwell averaged 10.9 PPG across 17 games with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while Michael Carter posted 6.3 PPG in 13 appearances for the Tennessee Titans.
A 4.6-PPG gap gives Kenneth Gainwell 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.
Kenneth Gainwell is the receiving back in this matchup, turning 73 targets into 486 yards, while Michael Carter profiles as a more traditional rusher with 333 rushing yards and 1 touchdowns. In PPR and half-PPR formats Kenneth Gainwell carries the higher weekly floor. In standard leagues the gap tightens considerably.
Bye weeks matter for roster construction: Kenneth Gainwell sits Week 11 while Michael Carter is off Week 5. If you are deciding between the two as a season-long roster hold, the staggered byes actually work in your favor.
