De'Von Achane vs James Cook III
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
Strong edge · 95% confident
James Cook III- Higher projection: 261 vs 257 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 16 vs 19
- More points per game: 18.9 vs 8.2
De'Von Achane and James Cook III are a common 2026 draft-day decision at running back. James Cook III holds the edge in expert consensus (RB6 to RB7). James Cook III typically comes off the board first, around pick 9 (round 1) to De'Von Achane's pick 13. The 2026 projections are nearly even: James Cook III at 261 PPR points (15.3 per game) versus De'Von Achane at 257.
Last season James Cook III carried the heavier workload (67% snap share, 131 touches to De'Von Achane's 46), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. For a 2026 redraft, James Cook III is the clear pick on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and an earlier ADP.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Achane | III |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 257 | 261 |
| Points / game | 8.2 | 18.9 |
| Games played | 3 | 6 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #19 | #16 |
| ADP | 13 | 9 |
| Scoring rank (season) | RB56 | RB11 |
| Snap share | 52% | 67% |
| Red-zone touches | 7 | 23 |
| Age | 25 | 27 |
| Bye week | 6 | 7 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2026 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: De'Von Achane or James Cook III.
Frequently asked
Should I draft De'Von Achane or James Cook III in 2026?
James Cook III is a clear call over De'Von Achane for 2026, on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and an earlier ADP.
Who is projected to score more, De'Von Achane or James Cook III?
James Cook III carries the higher 2026 projection at 261 PPR points (15.3 per game), compared with 257 for De'Von Achane.
Where are De'Von Achane and James Cook III being drafted?
James Cook III has an ADP around pick 9 (round 1), while De'Von Achane goes closer to pick 13 (round 2).
Who is ranked higher, De'Von Achane or James Cook III?
Expert consensus ranks James Cook III (RB6) ahead of De'Von Achane (RB7) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.