Fantasy Football: 3 Things We Learned From Week 14

Derrick Henry Is Getting Phased Into the Titans' Running Game

Derrick Henry is another rookie running back that came into the league with acclaim, but most folks weren't as excited about the situation he landed in with the Tennessee Titans. After all, they had just traded for DeMarco Murray in the offseason.

But quietly, Henry's role in the offense has grown in the past two weeks. It's important to take stock of what this means for Murray's chances as the fantasy playoff season's window closes.

Henry has actually also been good when given chances. Among the 44 running backs with at least 70 carries headed into Week 14, his 48.57% Rushing Success Rate ranked third, and his 0.00 Rushing NEP per rush ranked 20th. It appears the Titans coaching staff is taking notice by integrating him more into the offense, giving him 8 carries in Week 12, followed by 12 more in Week 14.

This might make Murray owners skittish, but two things insulate him from any real threat. First, the Titans sport the third highest run-to-pass ratio in the league, meaning any extra work Henry gets doesn't mean Murray is getting cut out. Week 14 is a great case study, as Murray racked up 21 touches despite Henry's expanded role.

Second, Murray has been highly involved in the passing game, reeling in 45 passes and generating over four targets per game (56 targets total). While he only received two targets against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Marcus Mariota threw the ball a season-low 20 times, so his role in the receiving game is probably safe, too.

For those who might be prone make irrational playoff lineup decisions, keep Murray right where he is. He's still a stud despite Henry's increased workload.