Duke Johnson Fantasy

Houston Texans running back Duke Johnson had just one carry on Sunday against the Broncos, a touch that gained five yards. He was targeted eight times in the passing game, catching six of those for 40 yards. Johnson's usage looked a lot more like most expected it would when he was traded to the Texans, and this is starting to look like a trend. That's good for Johnson owners in PPR leagues, who might finally be able to trust him in their lineups in 12-team or deeper leagues.

Dec. 8th • 5:00 PM

Houston Texans running back Duke Johnson saw his most targets and tied for his most carries of the season against the Patriots in Week 13 while playing a season-high 67 percent of offensive snaps, a sign that the pass-catching back might be moving towards a larger role in this offense. That gives him some intriguing upside in Week 14 against a Denver team that's done better against running backs on the ground than through the air. This could be a game that favors Johnson over teammate Carlos Hyde, though Johnson's still no more than a PPR RB3 because of the downside he presents, like the fact that in Weeks 11 and 12 he combined for just 12 receiving yards.

Dec. 7th • 11:50 AM

Houston Texans running back Duke Johnson had five catches for 54 yards and a score in Sunday's win over the New England Patriots. He also had nine carries for a team-high 36 rushing yards. Houston couldn't find room on the ground, but moved the ball at will through the air, which benefited Johnson. He's still a low-floor fantasy option who quarterback Deshaun Watson hasn't looked to enough in the pass game, but Sunday showed why Houston needs to get Johnson more involved. Maybe this game is a sign of his future usage.

Dec. 2nd • 11:06 AM