Samaje Perine vs Ty Chandler: The Full Breakdown
The gap between Samaje Perine and Ty Chandler is smaller than most fantasy managers think. Separated by just 0.6 PPG in 2025, this is one of those running back decisions that comes down to context, not name recognition. Samaje Perine averaged 6.5 PPG with the Kansas City Chiefs across 15 games, and Ty Chandler posted 5.9 with the Minnesota Vikings in 14.
When two running backs are separated by less than two points per game, the decision shifts to weekly context. Who has the softer defense? Who is trending up over the last month? Which team is projected for more total points? Those are the tiebreakers that actually matter.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Samaje Perine ran for 285 yards and 2 touchdowns; Ty Chandler posted 265 and 2. Goal-line share, red zone touches, and which team is favored are usually the tiebreaker when neither back offers passing-game volume.
One thing to note: both players share a Week 6 bye. That means you need a backup plan at running back for that week, especially if one of these two is your starter.
