As the NFL season settles into its second week on September 20, 2026, the league has already delivered a rollercoaster of emotions—from thrilling comebacks to shocking upsets. Yet, for fantasy football enthusiasts, Week 2 was a stark reminder that running back production can be as unpredictable as the weather. While some games were marred by inclement conditions, the action on the field provided a fresh batch of data to dissect. At Vulius, we’re breaking down the most impactful backfield committees and what they mean for your fantasy roster moving forward.
New England Patriots: Henderson Takes the Lead
The Patriots’ backfield was expected to be Rhamondre Stevenson’s domain after he logged 23 touches in Week 1 while TreVeyon Henderson nursed an ankle injury. But Henderson had other plans. The second-year speedster returned with a vengeance, racking up 16 touches for 76 yards and a highlight-reel 39-yard touchdown run. His 4.8 yards per carry outpaced Stevenson, who fumbled early and finished with just 7 touches for 46 yards and a score. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Henderson’s explosiveness may force the coaching staff to reconsider their distribution—talent often trumps experience. Stevenson remains a factor, especially on passing downs, but Henderson has vaulted back into the RB2/3 conversation, making this a frustrating committee for fantasy managers.
New Orleans Saints: Kamara’s Role Clouds Etienne’s Value
In New Orleans, the Saints’ ground game sputtered again, even with Alvin Kamara back from injury. Travis Etienne Jr. saw 10 touches for 31 yards, while Kamara managed 14 touches for 22 yards but was heavily involved in the passing game with 5 receptions. The big-money investment in Etienne looks questionable, though tough matchups against the Lions and Ravens provide some context. As highlighted on Vulius, Kamara’s prominent pass-catching role—despite minimal yardage—could offer a full-PPR floor as a desperation flex. Meanwhile, Etienne’s usage is concerning; he’s trending toward fringe RB3/flex territory until the offense finds its groove near the goal line.
Carolina Panthers: Hubbard Shines, Brooks Injured
Chuba Hubbard continues to reward fantasy managers who took a chance on him. In a blowout win over the Falcons, Hubbard amassed 14 touches for 64 yards and a touchdown—his third score of the season—while Jonathon Brooks managed just 6 touches for 11 yards before leaving with a groin injury. If Brooks misses time, Hubbard’s value skyrockets to RB1 status, but even with Brooks active, he’s a safe RB2. The Panthers’ offense is clicking, and Hubbard is emerging as a Zero RB hero for savvy drafters.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Dowdle’s Injury Compounds Woes
The Steelers’ backfield is a mess. Rico Dowdle started but exited with a toe injury after 9 touches for 44 yards, while Jaylen Warren led the way with 13 touches for 77 yards. Pittsburgh’s offense, led by a struggling Aaron Rodgers, failed to generate red-zone opportunities or positive game scripts. With Michael Pittman Jr. out, the passing game was non-existent, and Rodgers was sacked four times. Warren remains a fringe RB2/3 if Dowdle sits, but his ceiling is capped. Dowdle, meanwhile, is rapidly losing value and could be a drop candidate in shallow leagues. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, this situation is one to monitor closely.
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