James Conner vs Samaje Perine
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
Samaje Perine- Higher projection: 70 vs 57 pts
- More opportunity: 34% snap share, 16 red-zone touches
- Better positional rank: RB55 vs RB73
James Conner and Samaje Perine are a common 2026 draft-day decision at running back. James Conner holds the edge in expert consensus (RB70 to RB72). The 2026 projections give a modest edge: Samaje Perine at 70 PPR points (4.1 per game) versus James Conner at 57.
Last season Samaje Perine carried the heavier workload (34% snap share, 105 touches to James Conner's 41), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. For a 2026 redraft, Samaje Perine is the clear pick on the higher projection and the bigger workload.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Conner | Perine |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 57 | 70 |
| Points / game | 11.1 | 5.2 |
| Games played | 3 | 15 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #243 | #249 |
| ADP | 231 | - |
| Positional rank | RB73 | RB55 |
| Snap share | 50% | 34% |
| Red-zone touches | 5 | 16 |
| Age | 31 | 30 |
| Bye week | 14 | 6 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2025 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: James Conner or Samaje Perine.
Frequently asked
Should I draft James Conner or Samaje Perine in 2026?
Samaje Perine is a clear call over James Conner for 2026, on the higher projection and the bigger workload.
Who is projected to score more, James Conner or Samaje Perine?
Samaje Perine carries the higher 2026 projection at 70 PPR points (4.1 per game), compared with 57 for James Conner.
Who is ranked higher, James Conner or Samaje Perine?
Expert consensus ranks James Conner (RB70) ahead of Samaje Perine (RB72) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.