James Conner vs Kaleb Johnson
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 Conner- Higher projection: 57 vs 32 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 243 vs 244
James Conner and Kaleb Johnson are a common 2026 draft-day decision at running back. James Conner holds the edge in expert consensus (RB70 to RB71). Kaleb Johnson typically comes off the board first, around pick 215 (round 18) to James Conner's pick 231. The 2026 projections clearly separate them: James Conner at 57 PPR points (3.4 per game) versus Kaleb Johnson at 32.
Kaleb Johnson is the younger option (age 23), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, James Conner is the clear pick on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Conner | Johnson |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 57 | 32 |
| Games played | - | 1 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #243 | #244 |
| ADP | 231 | 215 |
| Age | 31 | 23 |
| Bye week | 14 | 11 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2026 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: James Conner or Kaleb Johnson.
Frequently asked
Should I draft James Conner or Kaleb Johnson in 2026?
James Conner is a clear call over Kaleb Johnson for 2026, on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Who is projected to score more, James Conner or Kaleb Johnson?
James Conner carries the higher 2026 projection at 57 PPR points (3.4 per game), compared with 32 for Kaleb Johnson.
Where are James Conner and Kaleb Johnson being drafted?
Kaleb Johnson has an ADP around pick 215 (round 18), while James Conner goes closer to pick 231 (round 20).
Who is ranked higher, James Conner or Kaleb Johnson?
Expert consensus ranks James Conner (RB70) ahead of Kaleb Johnson (RB71) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.