Kyren Williams vs. Josh Jacobs: Which RB Is the Better Fantasy Football Pick?
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It has been anything but a quiet offseason for the Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Rams.
Both teams have quickly found themselves buried in controversy this offseason, with Puka Nacua and Josh Jacobs at the center of headlines for all the wrong reasons. While the drama is expected to continue as the preseason roars on, fantasy managers have a different decision to make. Two members of each offense could be battling for a spot on managers’ draft boards, as Jacobs and Kyren Williams enter 2026 with significant fantasy implications.
With that being said, who is the safer pick for managers in 2026?
Josh Jacobs, Green Bay Packers
It’s been a difficult few months for Josh Jacobs (#15 ADP, #7 among RBs), to say the least.
Jacobs was arrested at the end of May in Brown County, Wisconsin, after authorities accused him of domestic abuse and disorderly conduct. While Jacobs himself has denied the allegations, the situation currently remains unsolved, and the possibility of further legal action or even a potential NFL suspension still hangs over his head. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, his case is still being reviewed by league personnel.
Potential discipline looms over a group of NFL players, including Rams WR Puka Nacua and Packers RB Josh Jacobs.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 11, 2026
Cc: @tyschmit
🎧 https://t.co/mTwS98lcWO pic.twitter.com/e5fW2ZoQwV
Outside of his legal situation, however, Jacobs remains one of the better RB1 options in fantasy football. The Packers’ star back finished as RB13 in PPR leagues last season, tallying 234 carries for 929 yards and 14 total touchdowns. It’s also important to note that this finish came with him missing two games. A large chunk of his production comes from his hefty touchdown volume, as he holds the franchise record for most consecutive games with a score.
If Jacobs can stay on the field for a full season, there is a clear path toward another strong fantasy finish. He is still the Packers’ best weapon, and that does not appear to change anytime soon. And, in terms of opponents, Green Bay holds the tenth-easiest schedule for running backs. However, it goes without saying that his legal situation could make him an extremely risky investment at his current ADP. Any suspension would immediately tank his fantasy value, and even the possibility of missed games has already caused him to slip down draft boards. And, unfortunately, this does not begin to mention his slow decline in production.
However, when on the field, Jacobs still is one of the better fantasy running backs in football.
Kyren Williams, Los Angeles Rams
Kyren Williams (#22 ADP, #13 among RBs), on the other hand, has stayed out of the papers this offseason.
Williams finished 2025 as PPR’s RB9, totaling 259 carries for 1,252 yards and 13 total touchdowns. Furthermore, he also drew in 36 catches on 50 targets. That workload makes Williams an intriguing fantasy option heading into 2026, especially considering he finished ahead of Jacobs despite carrying a later ADP.
The ultimate question, however, is whether Williams can maintain that level of volume for another season. He’s done well in LA in his last three seasons, totaling over 1,100 rushing yards in each, while consistently being one of the Rams’ most reliable options in goal-line scenarios. He was used in 66.2% of Los Angeles’s red-zone scenarios last season and gave the team ten touchdowns in return. Thus, there’s a clear path even when the yardage isn’t there.
The biggest concern is the growth of fellow back Blake Corum. After jumping from 58 attempts to 145 in year two, there’s a real possibility that he could continue eating into Williams’ workload this season. This is especially true for early downs. And, as a result, the development would make it extremely difficult for Williams to hold his previous numbers. So, as training camp and preseason action continue, this is a situation to continue to monitor.
However, if the split doesn’t grow, there’s no reason to think that Williams can’t have another stellar fantasy outing this season.
Josh Jacobs vs. Kyren Williams Fantasy Verdict
If Jacobs’ suspension rumors end up turning true, then Williams should be the clear favorite. But honestly? Considering his past production, fantasy finishes, and current ADP, Williams may be the favorable choice regardless.
Josh Jacobs, while an incredible talent, has been steadily declining in production across his tenure in Green Bay. His first season saw him log over 1,300 yards and a whopping 15 touchdowns, whereas last year he had a modest 929 yards and 13 touchdowns. And considering his age, injury history, and potential looming suspension, all signs are pointing towards that trend remaining true come 2026.
Williams, despite the workload threat from Corum, has proven he can remain a productive fantasy option even when his volume takes a hit. He consistently produces in the red-zone, can fair well in the passing game, and is overall simply better built for his workload.
Williams wins this one.
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Zach is a Temple University graduate with a degree in journalism and sports media, bringing a lifelong passion for storytelling and athletics to his work. With years of experience covering a myriad of sports at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels, he seeks to bring a polished and informed approach to every story he tells.
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