The last thing fantasy football owners need ahead of their fantasy football championships is for their first-round pick to be “questionable,” but that’s likely the situation with Derrick Henry. The Titans’ star RB is dealing with a hip injury and in real danger of missing Thursday Night Football against the Cowboys. His status will have a big effect on Week 17 start ’em, sit ’em decisions, so knowing the latest updates is crucial before locking in your lineup.
We’ll continue to update this article with news on Henry until the official active/inactive report comes out on Thursday around 6:50 p.m. ET.
MORE TNF: FD lineup
Is Derrick Henry playing Thursday night Week 17?
Henry (hip) was an estimated “DNP” on Monday, and when asked on Tuesday if he wanted to play against the Cowboys, he said, “Whatever I gotta do…I’m ready to do.” The Titans don’t want to drop a sixth-straight game even though this week’s game doesn’t really affect their chances at making the playoffs, and with Malik Willis under center, they need Henry more than ever. Of course, they won’t take any unnecessary chances with their franchise RB, so his status is truly up in the air. The fact that Week 18’s matchup against Jacksonville is far more important for Tennessee might be a clue that Henry will be held out this week.
WEEK 17 PPR RANKINGS:
QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/STs | Kickers
If Henry is active, he’s a must-start against Dallas’ 22nd-ranked run defense. However, there’s always a risk of him being limited or exiting early if he aggravates the injury. That’s a risk you have to take with fantasy championships on the line, though, as Henry can still post 15-plus points even if he’s less-than-100 percent.
WEEK 17 STANDARD RANKINGS:
QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/STs | Kickers
If Henry is ruled out, Hassan Haskins would start and handle the bulk of the RB snaps for Tennessee. He’s only posted 11 carries for 50 yards all season, so it’s tough to recommend starting him with your season on the line, but it’s not a terrible matchup and we know the Titans will employ a run-heavy game plan. Julius Chestnut would also be involved, but he’s of little concern to fantasy owners. Consider Haskins a boom-or-bust flex in 12-team leagues if Henry is out.