Connor Heyward vs Jeremy McNichols
Two running backs fantasy managers weigh against each other for 2026. Here is the head-to-head on projections, expert consensus, ADP and usage, with our Clutch Score verdict on who to draft.
Who to draft
Slight lean · 62% confident
Jeremy McNichols- More points per game: 4.3 vs 1.6
- More opportunity: 33% snap share, 5 red-zone touches
- Better positional rank: RB56 vs RB78
Connor Heyward carries more upside if you need a ceiling (younger / higher projection).
Connor Heyward and Jeremy McNichols are a common 2026 draft-day decision at running back. The 2026 projections are nearly even: Connor Heyward at 15 PPR points (0.9 per game) versus Jeremy McNichols at 9.
Last season Jeremy McNichols carried the heavier workload (33% snap share, 75 touches to Connor Heyward's 19), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Connor Heyward is the younger option (age 27), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Jeremy McNichols is the narrow pick on the bigger workload. Connor Heyward carries more upside if you need a ceiling (younger / higher projection).
Head-to-head
| Stat | Heyward | McNichols |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 15 | 9 |
| Points / game | 1.6 | 4.3 |
| Games played | 17 | 17 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | - | #435 |
| ADP | 682 | - |
| Positional rank | RB78 | RB56 |
| Snap share | 8% | 33% |
| Red-zone touches | 7 | 5 |
| Age | 27 | 30 |
| Bye week | - | 7 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2025 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: Connor Heyward or Jeremy McNichols.
Frequently asked
Should I draft Connor Heyward or Jeremy McNichols in 2026?
Jeremy McNichols is a slight lean over Connor Heyward for 2026, on the bigger workload. Connor Heyward carries more upside if you need a ceiling (younger / higher projection).
Who is projected to score more, Connor Heyward or Jeremy McNichols?
Connor Heyward carries the higher 2026 projection at 15 PPR points (0.9 per game), compared with 9 for Jeremy McNichols.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.