The Baltimore Ravens find themselves in a terrible position entering Week 17. Their playoff hopes are somehow still alive, but at just 6% odds, their season is as close to over as it can get. Simply put, they need a miracle.
Not only will the Ravens be relying on the Cleveland Browns to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, but they will have their own issues to deal with on Saturday. Against the Green Bay Packers, they are expected to be without star quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson did not practice at all this week with a back injury, and on Friday, he was listed as doubtful for Baltimore’s Week 17 contest.
This puts quarterback Tyler Huntley in a position to make his second start of the 2025 campaign. While Huntley is a capable backup, the offense will not run through him. It will run through running back Derrick Henry.
For fantasy managers looking to win their championship this week, Henry could put on a long-awaited masterclass performance.
Derrick Henry poised to play pivotal role in fantasy championships
In full point per reception (PPR) leagues, Henry ranks just 14th among running backs and 37th overall in fantasy this year. For a player who was commonly selected in the late first-round this fantasy season, he has been underwhelming.
Throw in the fact that he was consistently putting up 20 to 30-point performances last year, and fantasy managers were expecting more from Henry in 2025. That could change in Week 17.
While Green Bay’s defense is top-10 against running backs in terms of fantasy scoring, Henry may see a season-high in touches on Saturday. With Huntley under center, there should be significantly less focus on the passing game and increased focus on Henry and the rushing attack.
Packers’ safety Evan Williams is also questionable with a knee injury. Reports have been optimistic about him playing, but he only practiced in a limited capacity this week. According to Pro Football Focus, Williams has an 83.2 run defense grade. He plays all around the field, including a ton in the box. If he cannot suit up, Green Bay’s run defense could take a hit.
In the Ravens’ Week 16 loss, Henry was having one of the best games of his 2025 campaign. He finished with 18 carries for 128 yards and two touchdowns, which also included 22.8 fantasy points. However, he did not see a single touch in the team’s final two drives.
Head Coach John Harbaugh and Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken were ruthlessly questioned about that decision following the game, and with that fresh in their minds, they likely will not make the same mistake twice. If they keep Henry rolling for all four quarters, he could not only deliver a season-saving performance for the Ravens but also a championship-winning performance for fantasy managers.