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DraftKings NFL 2021: Best lineup for Week 1

By Nick Villano

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 03: Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans runs for yards during the first half against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 03: Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans runs for yards during the first half against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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Tennessee Titans
Running back Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Running Backs: Christian McCaffrey $9,500

Spending almost 20 percent of your budget on one player is a tough sell, but Christian McCaffrey is the highest priced fantasy player for a reason. When he is at his best, he is LaDainian Tomlinson in present day. He’s facing a Jets team that is still piecing together a lineup. Sam Darnold has every reason to play the game of his life this week, and the Jets are starting a rookie quarterback who will be prone to mistakes. That will give McCaffrey and the Panthers a short field.

McCaffrey can dominate any team, but coming off last season’s injury-riddled year, it’ll be nice to have a soft landing spot against the New York Jets. The Panthers are a curious team this season, and they need a lot to go right to compete, but McCaffrey is a sure thing, and those are hard to find in daily fantasy. He’s worth the price this week because there are places to easily save money.

Derrick Henry $8,800

Yup, we’re breaking the bank on running backs. Derrick Henry is the latest “Mr. 2,000” after one of the best statistical seasons at the position last year. He might be the first player ever to record back-to-back 2,000 yard seasons, or last year might eventually catch up to him. It’s highly doubtful he will feel the effects in Week 1 after an offseason of rest.

The AFC South is there for the taking, and the Titans know they can’t take a week off. So, when they welcome the Arizona Cardinals in Week 1, they will give them a hefty dose of Henry from the start. He had a relatively slow start last year being kept off the score sheet, but he still broke 100 yards in Week 1 and caught three passes. We expect more of the same this season, and he could add a touchdown in what should be a high-scoring game.

Other Options: Clyde Edwards-Helaire $6,600, James Robinson $6,400