The 2024 fantasy football season is rapidly approaching, and for managers looking to dominate their leagues, identifying top-tier running backs is crucial. These players, the engines of many offenses, can provide consistent scoring and high ceilings, making them premium assets in drafts. This article breaks down the top running backs for the upcoming season, offering detailed analysis, rankings, and insights to help you make informed decisions on draft day.
The Elite Tier of Running Backs in 2024
At the top of the running back landscape, a few names stand out as potential league-winners. These players combine high volume, explosive playmaking ability, and favorable offensive situations, making them the cornerstones of any fantasy roster. Identifying this elite tier early in your draft strategy can provide a significant advantage over your competition.
Christian McCaffrey: The Consistent Fantasy Star
Christian McCaffrey remains the gold standard for fantasy running backs in 2024. His dual-threat ability as a runner and receiver makes him a weekly must-start, and his consistent volume in the San Francisco 49ers' offense provides a high floor. McCaffrey's receiving prowess, in particular, sets him apart, offering a significant edge in PPR (points per reception) formats. His knack for finding the end zone further solidifies his status as the RB1 overall. The versatile running back's consistent performance and usage in a high-powered offense make him a fantasy football cornerstone.
McCaffrey's impact extends beyond just yardage and touchdowns. His presence on the field opens up opportunities for other offensive players, creating a synergistic effect that benefits the entire 49ers' attack. The coaching staff's commitment to utilizing him in various ways—runs between the tackles, receptions out of the backfield, and even lined up as a receiver—maximizes his fantasy potential. However, his injury history is a slight concern, but his production when healthy is undeniable.
Bijan Robinson: The Rising Star in Atlanta
Bijan Robinson enters his second NFL season with immense hype and sky-high expectations. After a promising rookie campaign, Robinson is poised to take on an even larger role in the Atlanta Falcons' offense. His blend of size, speed, and agility makes him a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and the Falcons' commitment to the run suggests a heavy workload. Bijan’s potential to become a true workhorse back, handling both early-down carries and passing-down duties, makes him one of the most coveted fantasy assets. The dynamic running back should be a focal point in the Falcons' offense, providing significant fantasy value.
Robinson's skillset is tailor-made for fantasy success. He possesses the vision and burst to excel as a runner, the soft hands to be a reliable receiver, and the physicality to break tackles and gain extra yards. The Falcons' coaching staff has expressed their excitement about utilizing him in various roles, hinting at an expanded role in the passing game. This versatility gives him a high ceiling in PPR formats, where receptions are rewarded. However, the presence of other talented offensive players in Atlanta means he'll need to consistently produce to maintain his elite status. — Appleton WI Weather Radar: Live Updates & Forecasts
Breece Hall: The Explosive Playmaker in New York
Breece Hall showcased his explosive potential as a rookie before an unfortunate knee injury cut his season short. Now fully recovered, Hall is ready to reclaim his place as the lead back for the New York Jets. His combination of speed, power, and elusiveness makes him a threat to score from anywhere on the field, and his role in the Jets' offense is secure. The Jets' bolstered offense, with the addition of Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, should provide more scoring opportunities for Hall. The talented running back's ability to make big plays should translate to substantial fantasy points.
Hall's recovery from his knee injury is a significant factor in his fantasy outlook. If he returns to his pre-injury form, he has the potential to be a top-five running back. His ability to break long runs and contribute in the passing game gives him a high ceiling. The Jets' offense, now led by a veteran quarterback, should be more efficient, leading to more scoring opportunities for Hall. However, the presence of other running backs on the roster means he'll need to earn his touches and prove his durability.
The Second Tier: High-Upside RBs with Some Risk
Beyond the elite tier, a group of running backs offers significant upside but comes with some level of risk. These players may have questions about their workload, offensive environment, or injury history, but their potential to produce at a high level makes them valuable targets in the middle rounds of fantasy drafts.
Jonathan Taylor: The Colts' Workhorse with Questions
Jonathan Taylor's 2023 season was marred by injury and contract disputes, leaving his fantasy stock in a state of uncertainty. When healthy and engaged, Taylor is a proven workhorse capable of carrying an offense. However, his long-term future with the Indianapolis Colts remains unclear, and his health is a significant concern. Taylor's talent is undeniable, but his situation makes him a risky pick. The powerful running back can be a league-winner if healthy and productive.
Taylor's situation is one of the most complex in fantasy football. His contract situation and injury history make him a high-risk, high-reward pick. If he returns to his 2021 form, when he led the league in rushing, he could be a steal. However, there's also a chance he could miss significant time or be traded to a less favorable situation. Fantasy managers will need to carefully weigh the risks and rewards before investing in Taylor.
Saquon Barkley: The Giants' Electric Playmaker
Saquon Barkley has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career, but consistency has been an issue. His talent is undeniable, and he has the potential to be a top-five running back in any given week. However, the Giants' offensive struggles and Barkley's own injury history make him a volatile fantasy asset. The dynamic running back can deliver huge performances but comes with week-to-week uncertainty.
Barkley's fantasy value is closely tied to the Giants' offensive success. If the team can improve its passing game, it will open up more running lanes for Barkley. He's also a valuable receiver out of the backfield, which gives him a solid floor in PPR formats. However, if the Giants' offense continues to struggle, Barkley's opportunities will be limited. His injury history also makes him a risky pick, as he's missed significant time in the past.
Tony Pollard: The Cowboys' Lead Back with Something to Prove
Tony Pollard takes over the lead role in the Dallas Cowboys' backfield after the departure of Ezekiel Elliott. Pollard has shown explosiveness and big-play ability in the past, but he has yet to prove he can handle a full workload. His receiving skills give him a boost in PPR leagues, but his durability over a full season is a question mark. The explosive running back gets a chance to shine as the Cowboys' primary ball carrier.
Pollard's opportunity is significant, but he faces pressure to perform. The Cowboys have invested heavily in their offensive line, which should create running lanes for him. He's also a valuable weapon in the passing game, which gives him a high floor in PPR formats. However, he'll need to prove he can handle the physical demands of being a lead back. The Cowboys could also bring in another running back to share the workload, which would limit Pollard's upside.
Sleepers and Risky Plays: Late-Round Running Back Targets
The later rounds of fantasy drafts are where you can find potential sleepers and high-risk, high-reward plays. These running backs may not be household names, but they have the potential to outperform their draft position and provide valuable depth to your roster.
Alexander Mattison: The Vikings' Potential Workhorse
Alexander Mattison steps into the lead role for the Minnesota Vikings following the departure of Dalvin Cook. Mattison has been a reliable backup in the past, and he has the size and skill set to handle a significant workload. His pass-catching ability makes him a valuable asset in PPR leagues, and the Vikings' offense should provide him with plenty of scoring opportunities. The underrated running back could be a late-round steal for fantasy managers.
Mattison's success hinges on his ability to stay healthy and handle a full workload. He's shown flashes of brilliance in the past when given opportunities, but he has yet to prove he can be a consistent performer over a full season. The Vikings' offense should be productive, which will give Mattison opportunities to score. However, he'll need to fend off competition from other running backs on the roster.
Dameon Pierce: The Texans' Physical Runner
Dameon Pierce showed promise as a rookie for the Houston Texans, displaying a physical running style and the ability to break tackles. The Texans' offense is undergoing a rebuild, but Pierce could be a focal point of their running game. His ability to gain tough yards makes him valuable in standard scoring formats, but his limited receiving role caps his upside in PPR leagues. The tough running back looks to build on a promising rookie season.
Pierce's fantasy value is tied to the Texans' offensive improvement. If the team can develop its passing game, it will open up more running lanes for Pierce. He's a powerful runner who can gain yards after contact, but he needs more opportunities to score. The Texans could also bring in another running back to share the workload, which would limit Pierce's upside. Fantasy managers should monitor the Texans' offensive strategy during training camp.
Rachaad White: The Buccaneers' Pass-Catching Back
Rachaad White is in line to be the lead back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. White's biggest strength is his pass-catching ability, which makes him valuable in PPR formats. The Buccaneers' offense is in transition, but White could see a significant number of targets out of the backfield. His ability to contribute as a receiver gives him a higher floor than many other late-round running backs. The versatile running back could become a valuable fantasy asset in PPR leagues.
White's fantasy value hinges on his role in the passing game. If he can establish himself as a reliable target for the Buccaneers' quarterback, he'll have a solid floor in PPR formats. He'll also need to prove he can handle a significant workload as a runner. The Buccaneers could bring in another running back to compete for carries, which would limit White's upside. Fantasy managers should monitor White's usage during training camp and the preseason.
2024 Fantasy Football Running Back Rankings: Top 50
(Needs Verification)
- Christian McCaffrey
- Bijan Robinson
- Breece Hall
- Jonathan Taylor
- Saquon Barkley
- Tony Pollard
- Nick Chubb
- Derrick Henry
- Josh Jacobs
- Travis Etienne
- Najee Harris
- Kenneth Walker III
- Aaron Jones
- Joe Mixon
- Miles Sanders
- Rhamondre Stevenson
- Alexander Mattison
- Dameon Pierce
- Rachaad White
- J.K. Dobbins
- Cam Akers
- Khalil Herbert
- Javonte Williams
- A.J. Dillon
- Antonio Gibson
- James Conner
- David Montgomery
- Dalvin Cook
- Devin Singletary
- Samaje Perine
- Ezekiel Elliott
- Damien Harris
- Jerick McKinnon
- Cordarrelle Patterson
- Tyler Allgeier
- Chuba Hubbard
- Jamaal Williams
- Isiah Pacheco
- Kenneth Gainwell
- Raheem Mostert
- Gus Edwards
- D'Andre Swift
- Jeff Wilson Jr.
- Zach Charbonnet
- Jaylen Warren
- Tank Bigsby
- Deuce Vaughn
- Tyjae Spears
- Roschon Johnson
- Rico Dowdle
Conclusion: Drafting a Winning Running Back Strategy
The running back position remains critical in fantasy football, and identifying the right players can be the difference between winning and losing your league. By understanding the different tiers of running backs, their strengths and weaknesses, and their potential risks and rewards, you can develop a draft strategy that sets you up for success. Whether you prioritize elite workhorses or target high-upside sleepers, a well-rounded approach to the running back position is essential for fantasy dominance in 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Fantasy Football Running Backs
How important is it to draft a top running back early in fantasy football?
Drafting a top running back early, particularly in the first round, can provide a significant advantage. These players often offer a combination of high volume, consistent production, and scoring potential. Securing one of the elite running backs can anchor your team and provide a reliable foundation for your weekly lineup. However, it's essential to balance this strategy with addressing other positions and considering the overall value available at each pick.
What factors should I consider when evaluating running backs for fantasy football?
When evaluating running backs, consider factors such as their role in the offense, their history of production, their injury history, and the overall strength of their team's offense. Look for running backs who are likely to receive a high volume of carries and targets in the passing game. A strong offensive line and a favorable game script (i.e., the team is often playing with a lead) can also boost a running back's fantasy value. — Penn State Football: History, Key Players, Schedule, And More
In PPR leagues, how much does a running back's receiving ability affect their value?
In PPR (points per reception) leagues, a running back's receiving ability significantly enhances their fantasy value. Receptions add to a player's point total, making running backs who are heavily involved in the passing game highly valuable. Players who consistently catch passes out of the backfield offer a higher floor and a greater chance of exceeding expectations each week.
How can I identify potential sleeper running backs in the later rounds of my fantasy draft?
Identifying sleeper running backs involves looking for players who may be undervalued due to factors such as their current role, their team's situation, or injury concerns. Target players who have the potential to step into a larger role due to injury or performance issues ahead of them on the depth chart. Also, consider rookies with promising talent and favorable opportunities.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when drafting running backs in fantasy football?
Common mistakes include overvaluing past performance without considering current circumstances, ignoring injury risk, and failing to consider the overall composition of your roster. Avoid drafting multiple running backs with similar risk profiles (e.g., all injury-prone players). Diversify your running back corps with a mix of high-floor and high-upside options. — Deebo Samuel Net Worth: Career Earnings And Financial Success
How does a running back’s bye week impact their overall fantasy value, and how should I plan for it?
A running back’s bye week significantly impacts their overall fantasy value as they will score zero points for your team during that week. Planning for bye weeks is crucial; you should ensure you have adequate depth at the running back position to cover for your starters during their bye weeks. This might involve drafting an extra running back or utilizing the waiver wire to pick up a temporary replacement.
How should I adjust my running back draft strategy based on my league’s scoring format (PPR, standard, half-PPR)?
Your running back draft strategy should be significantly influenced by your league’s scoring format. In PPR (points per reception) leagues, prioritize running backs who are heavily involved in the passing game, as receptions add to their point total. In standard leagues, focus more on running backs who get a high volume of carries and score touchdowns. Half-PPR leagues strike a balance, valuing both rushing and receiving contributions.
What strategies can I employ during the fantasy football season to improve my running back roster through trades or the waiver wire?
During the season, continuously monitor your league’s waiver wire for potential pickups, particularly after injuries occur. Be proactive in trading for running backs who are poised to take on larger roles due to injuries or performance issues. Identifying breakout candidates early and making strategic moves can significantly strengthen your running back roster and improve your chances of success.
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