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Fantasy Football Running Backs Rankings (Tiers 4-8)- 2023 Best Ball Leagues

J.K. Dobbins - Fantasy Football Rankings, NFL Injury News, Draft Sleepers

Running Back rankings analysis for 2023 best ball drafts for RBs in tiers 4 and lower. Phil Clark breaks down the best values relative to ADP for best ball leagues.

The initial weeks of the offseason are now behind us and player movement that transpired during the process of free agency has provided some players with pathways toward expanded production in their new environments. This includes Miles Sanders, David Montgomery, Samaje Perine, and Jamaal Williams who are among the backs that will be resurfacing in new landing spots.

Several other backs have been designated with franchise tags (Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Tony Pollard) – even though Barkley is not enamored with the idea of playing under the tag – while the future remains unsettled for several other backs (Austin Ekeler/Joe Mixon/Alvin Kamara/Ezekiel Elliott). All recent developments have coincided with the accelerated participation in best ball leagues as fantasy managers embrace the opportunity to construct rosters following the latest rises and declines in players' ADPs.

These alterations within the fantasy landscape have also been infused into the tiered rankings at RotoBaller, and this article will examine running backs who are contained in tiers 4-8. We will continually update our rankings in every format throughout the offseason and you can find a full breakdown of Tiers 1-3 here.

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Running Back Best-Ball Rankings

Position Rank  Position   Tier Player Name Overall    Rank Overall    Tier
1 1 Christian McCaffrey 3 1
2 1 Austin Ekeler 4 1
3 1 Jonathan Taylor 10 2
4 1 Saquon Barkley 12 2
5 2 Kenneth Walker III 16 2
6 2 Nick Chubb 17 2
7 2 Bijan Robinson 18 2
8 2 Derrick Henry 20 3
9 2 Josh Jacobs 21 3
10 2 Travis Etienne Jr. 22 3
11 2 Breece Hall 23 3
12 3 Rhamondre Stevenson 24 3
13 3 Tony Pollard 31 4
14 3 Aaron Jones 34 4
15 3 Najee Harris 35 4
16 4 Joe Mixon 38 4
17 4 Dalvin Cook 42 4
18 4 Jahmyr Gibbs 53 5
19 4 D'Andre Swift 56 5
20 4 J.K. Dobbins 61 6
21 4 Miles Sanders 66 6
22 4 David Montgomery 69 6
23 5 Javonte Williams 71 6
24 5 James Conner 72 6
25 5 Cam Akers 74 7
26 5 James Cook 77 7
27 5 Khalil Herbert 86 7
28 5 Tyler Allgeier 87 8
29 5 Dameon Pierce 88 8
30 5 Isiah Pacheco 90 8
31 5 Alvin Kamara 93 8
32 5 Rachaad White 94 8
33 6 Brian Robinson Jr. 96 8
34 6 Zach Charbonnet 98 8
35 6 Rashaad Penny 99 8
36 6 AJ Dillon 101 9
37 6 Jamaal Williams 102 9
38 6 Kenneth Gainwell 108 9
39 6 Antonio Gibson 116 10
40 6 Damien Harris 118 10
41 6 Alexander Mattison 128 10
42 6 Elijah Mitchell 131 10
43 6 Raheem Mostert 135 11
44 6 Jeff Wilson Jr. 137 11
45 7 D'Onta Foreman 142 11
46 7 Jaylen Warren 149 12
47 7 Zach Evans 153 12
48 7 Samaje Perine 154 12
49 7 Ezekiel Elliott 155 12
50 7 Cordarrelle Patterson 160 13
51 7 Devon Achane 161 13
52 7 Devin Singletary 163 13
53 7 Chuba Hubbard 165 13
54 7 Leonard Fournette 166 13
55 7 Kareem Hunt 169 13
56 7 Jerome Ford 174 13
57 7 Kendre Miller 176 13
58 7 Tyjae Spears 177 13
59 8 DeeJay Dallas 182 14
59 8 Jerick McKinnon 183 14
60 8 Zamir White 188 14
61 8 James Robinson 194 14
62 8 Tank Bigsby 198 14
63 8 Israel Abanikanda 199 14
64 8 Roschon Johnson 200 14
65 8 Chris Evans 201 14
66 8 Michael Carter 202 15
67 8 Joshua Kelley 203 15
68 8 Pierre Strong Jr. 204 15
69 8 Gus Edwards 207 15
70 9 Matt Breida 219 15
71 9 D'Ernest Johnson 220 15
72 9 Boston Scott 229 16
73 9 Chase Edmonds 232 16
74 9 Kenny McIntosh 233 16
75 9 Ty Chandler 235 16
76 9 Chase Brown 241 16
77 9 Caleb Huntley 242 16
78 9 Kyren Williams 244 16
79 9 Eric Gray 250 17
80 9 Craig Reynolds 251 17
81 9 JaMycal Hasty 252 17
82 9 Dontrell Hilliard 253 17
83 9 Zonovan Knight 259 17
84 9 Trestan Ebner 260 17
85 9 Hassan Haskins 262 18
86 9 Jordan Mason 264 18
87 10 Deon Jackson 267 18
88 10 DeWayne McBride 270 18
89 10 Clyde Edwards-Helaire 275 18
90 10 Tyrion Davis-Price 281 18
91 10 Evan Hull 284 18
92 10 Isaiah Spiller 285 18
93 10 Deuce Vaughn 287 18
94 10 Rico Dowdle 289 18
95 10 Malik Davis 294 18
96 10 Zack Moss 296 18
97 10 Nyheim Hines 299 18
97 10 J.D. McKissic 301 19
98 10 Keaton Mitchell 310 19
99 10 Avery Williams 313 19
100 10 Raheem Blackshear 316 20

 

Tier 4 

Joe Mixon, Dalvin Cook, Jahmyr Gibbs, D'Andre Swift, J.K. Dobbins, Miles Sanders, David Montgomery

Speculation has surged surrounding Mixon’s uncertain future with Cincinnati, even though Samaje Perine has relocated to Denver and the Bengals have yet to add another back during the offseason. Mixon’s numbers as a rusher diminished during 2022, although he also registered career-best results as a pass catcher.

His average of 15.0 attempts per game was the lowest since 2017, while his 58.1 yards per game average declined from the 75.8 per game that he attained from 2018-2021. Mixon did finish fifth overall in receptions (60/4.3 per game), and sixth in receiving yards (441/31.5 per game), while also rising to 10th in routes run (277).

Mixon has been recharged with aggravated menace following an off-field incident, and his precarious situation could eventually fuel a significant drop in his ranking. It also creates risk in selecting him before his diminished ADP (72/RB26).

We have become accustomed to including Cook among the unquestioned RB1s in recent seasons, which was underscored by his ADPs from 2020-2022 (6/2/7). However, Cook’s status has become nebulous due to his February shoulder surgery and a 2022 season that contained a mixture of favorable numbers and results that were concerning.

Year Yards/Gm Att/Gm YAC/Att
2018 55.9 12.1 2
2019 81.1 17.9 2.4
2020 111.2 22.3 2.4
2021 89.2 19.2 1.9
2022 69 15.5 1.8

Cook played in a career-high 17 games after failing to exceed 14 during the first five years of his career. He also assembled 1,135+ rushing yards for the fourth consecutive season while finishing sixth overall with 1,173.

However, Cook’s averages of 69 yards/15.5 attempts per game were his lowest since 2018, while his average of 1.8 yards after contact per attempt established a career-low. The current array of questions surrounding Cook should motivate you to avoid selecting him until Round 5 of your drafts.

Gibbs accumulated 1,206 rushing yards on 232 attempts during his two seasons at Georgia Tech before entering the transfer portal in 2021. He transferred to Alabama and led the Crimson Tide in rushing attempts (151), rushing yards (926), and rushing touchdowns (7), as Gibbs also finished fifth among all backs in receptions (44), and soared to third in receiving yards (444) – which was the second consecutive year in which he eclipsed 440+.

Gibbs possesses the vision, agility, and explosiveness to function as a starter for fantasy managers, while his prowess as a pass catcher will accelerate his path toward consistent involvement as a receiving weapon. Gibbs’ ADP has elevated into Round 4 (47/RB18), and he could justify that optimism if he emerges in a favorable environment following the NFL Draft.

Swift was selected as an RB1 during the 2022 draft process (ADP 14/RB8), but his eventual numbers were the lowest of his career in multiple categories. He played in a career-high 14 games but registered a career-low 42% snap share. He was also limited to 99 rushing attempts (7.1 per game), and 542 rushing yards (38.7 per game) which failed to match his numbers during 2022 (151 carries/11.6 per game), (617 yards/47.5 per game).

Swift’s season-long totals in targets (70/5.0 per game), receptions (48/3.4 per game), and receiving yardage (389/27.8 per game) were also below his numbers during 2021 (78 targets/6.0 per game), (62 receptions/4.8 per game), (452 receiving yards/34.8 per game). The arrival of David Montgomery ensures that the constraints that were placed on Swift’s workload last season will remain intact. That should encourage you to avoid selecting Swift at his current ADP (44/RB15).

Dobbins’ protracted knee issues delayed his season debut in 2022 while also limiting him to intermittent involvement during much of the year. However, his late-season statistical eruption served as a reminder that he remains capable of operating as an RB2 for fantasy managers. Dobbins’ emerged in Week 3 following a lengthy recovery from his torn ACL and accumulated 35 attempts (8.8 per game) and 123 rushing yards (30.8 per game) from Weeks 3-6.

Weeks 14-17 Yards Yards/Gm Attempts Att/Gm YAC
J.K. Dobbins 397 99.3 57 14.3 212
Christian McCaffrey 394 98.5 74 18.5 223
Derrick Henry 351 117 61 20.3 237
Cam Akers 348 87 66 16.5 188
Nick Chubb 329 82.3 73 18.3 221
Travis Etienne 326 81.5 67 16.8 226
Miles Sanders 312 78 61 15.3 138
James Conner 306 76.5 62 15.5 188
Josh Jacobs 305 76.3 81 20.3 184
Tyler Allgeier 296 98.7 55 18.3 215

He sustained a new issue with his knee in Week 6 which led to his placement on injured reserve. However, Dobbins resurfaced in Week 14 and accumulated a league-high 397 yards (99.3 per game) from 14-17.

Dobbins’ effectiveness as the season neared its conclusion is encouraging. He will also function as the Ravens’ most critical backfield weapon during their transition from former offensive coordinator Greg Roman to Todd Monken.

Sanders will resurface in Carolina after signing a four-year, $25 million contract with the Panthers. This has ignited a rise in his 2023 outlook after his final season with Philadelphia provided a mix of career-best results as a rusher with his evaporated usage as a receiving back. Sanders finished fifth in rushing yardage (1,269/74.6 per game), second in yards before contact (837), fourth in red zone carries (49), and seventh in rushing touchdowns (11) while eclipsing his previous career-highs in each category.

He was also relegated to career lows in targets (26/1.5 per game), 20 receptions (1.2 per game), and 78 receiving yards (4.6 per game). However, Sanders should function as Carolina’s primary back, which should propel him to a sizable workload. That makes him a compelling option at his Round 7 ADP (80/RB29).

Montgomery averaged 229 carries (15.3 per game), and 902 yards (60.2 per game) during his four seasons with the Bears while leading Chicago’s backfield in both categories during every year of his tenure. That includes the team-high totals that he attained during 2022 (201 attempts/12.6 per game), (801 yards/50.1 per game).

Montgomery signed a three-year $18 million contract with NFC North rival Detroit and should commandeer a workload that is similar to the team’s deployment of Jamaal Williams in 2022. Williams secured a 40% snap share while finishing among the top 10 in attempts, and rushing yardage while leading all backs in red zone carries. D'Andre Swift will also enter into the equation although he will operate with restrictions on his workload. His involvement should not impede Montgomery from approaching RB2 output for fantasy managers.

 

Tier 5

Javonte Williams, James Conner, Cam Akers, James Cook, Khalil Herbert, Tyler Allgeier, Dameon Pierce, Isiah Pacheco, Alvin Kamara, Rachaad White

Enthusiasm for Williams reached its peak during the early weeks of the 2022 draft season as fantasy managers were incentivized to secure Williams as an RB1 (14/RB8). This was a byproduct of Melvin Gordon's prospective entrance into free agency. However, Gordon eventually re-signed with Denver. which destined Williams to a production-inhibiting rotation.

Williams secured a 54% snap share and averaged 11.8 attempts/51.0 rushing yards/5.5 targets per game, before sustaining the season-ending knee injury (torn ACL/torn LCL) that has impacted his outlook for 2023. The timeline for Williams’ return remains uncertain while former Bengal Samaje Perine is also primed to confiscate an ongoing role in the Broncos’ backfield. These concerning factors present risk for anyone who selects Williams at his declining ADP (67/RB24).

Conner operated as Arizona’s lead back during 2022 (183 carries/14.1 per game), (782 rushing yards/60.2 per game). Multiple health issues (chest/ribs/shin) sidelined him during four matchups, which added to the burgeoning history of injuries during his career. He will turn 28 in May and is entering the second year of a three-year contract – with a 2023 base salary that is fully guaranteed.

Despite his current status as the Cardinals’ unquestioned RB1, his outlook could still be altered due to Arizona’s massive offseason transformation. New general manager Monti Ossenfort and head coach Jonathan Gannon will initiate changes in the composition and utilization of their personnel, which could include the addition of significant competition into their backfield equation during the upcoming weeks. That should motivate you to avoid selecting Conner until Round 7 of your drafts.

Anyone who had Akers contained on their rosters during 2022 experienced a mercurial journey as his unpredictable usage created fluctuating output. Akers accumulated 12+ attempts during four of his first eight games. However, he also failed to exceed eight carries in three contests from Weeks 4-10 and was relegated to healthy scratch status in two games during that sequence.

Weeks 4-10 Attempts  Att/Gm Yards Yards/Gm BT YAC
Cam Akers 32 4.0 71 17.8 1 60

His season was resuscitated by a statistical ascension that vaulted him into the league lead in rushing yards (512/85.3 per game) from Weeks 13-18, while he was also fifth in point-per-game scoring (16.8).

Weeks 13-18 Attempts  Att/Gm Yards Yards/Gm BT YAC
Cam Akers 104 17.3 512 85.3 19 257

Akers is advancing through April with Kyren Williams directly below him on the depth chart and should emerge as the Rams’ lead back following the team’s offseason roster reconstruction. He will commandeer a sizable workload if that transpires, which justifies his selection during Round 5 of your drafts.

Cook’s ADP rose to Round 9 following the 2022 NFL Draft, due to anticipation that his versatility and home run capabilities would launch him into a sizable role in the Bills’ backfield. Cook only operated with a 16.9% snap share from Weeks 1-12 before his share rose to 42.8% from Weeks 13-18. He was also limited to 3.5 carries/19 yards per game from Weeks 3-10 but averaged 7.8 attempts/48.8 yards per game from Weeks 11-16.

Cook was targeted on 28.1% of his routes but trailed Devin Singletary in targets (52/32), receptions (38-21), and receiving yards (280/180). Cook’s 5.98% target share should expand following Singletary’s departure for Houston, although the arrival of former Patriot Damien Harris will impact Cook’s involvement as a rusher. That leaves Cook’s ADP properly placed in Round 8 (89/RB30).

Herbert averaged 6.5 attempts/41.5 yards per game in Weeks 1-2 before his numbers improved considerably from Weeks 3-10. Herbert was 10th in rushing yardage (560/70 per game) during that sequence while vaulting to seventh in yards after contact (366). He encountered a hip injury that sidelined him until Week 16, but still finished second in yards after contact per attempt (2.5) from Weeks 1-18, and finished third in Football Outsiders, DVOA (Defense-Adjusted Over Average).

David Montgomery's departure for Detroit appeared to position Herbert for an extensive workload before D'Onta Foreman secured a one-year deal with Chicago in March. Herbert and Foreman will share opportunities, but Herbert should still operate with a respectable workload. That makes him an enticing option at his Round 8 ADP (90/RB31).

Allgeier finished second among members of the 2022 rookie class with 1,035 rushing yards (64.7 per game) which also placed him 13th overall. Allgeier was also 12th in yards before contact (609), and 11th in yards after contact per attempt (2.0), during that sequence. He also vaulted to third overall in both rushing yards (711/ 79 per game) and yards after contact (485), from Weeks 9-18, while assembling league-highs in rushing yards 431 yards (107.8 per game) and yards after contact (314), from Weeks 15-18.

Allgeier’s statistical surge cemented his role as Atlanta’s primary back, as Cordarrelle Patterson averaged 9.6 attempts/39.4 yards per game from Weeks 9-18. The sizable workload that Allgeier commandeered could be reduced if the Falcons seize another back during the NFL Draft. However, he will outperform the expectations of his ADP (69/RB25) if he retains lead-back responsibilities.

Pierce was the seventh back to be selected during last year’s NFL Draft following a collegiate career in which he was woefully underutilized. However, his workload was not an obstacle during his rookie season, as Pierce soared to third in attempts from Weeks 2-10 (154/19.3 per game). He also rose to fifth in yardage (739/92.4 per game), while finishing seventh in broken tackles (26) and eighth in yards after contact (391) during that span.

Weeks 2-10 Attempts  Att/Gm Yards  Yards/Gm BT YAC
Derrick Henry 181 22.7 841 105.1 30 579
Saquon Barkley 180 22.5 767 95.9 30 470
Dameon Pierce 154 19.3 739 92.4 26 391
Josh Jacobs 149 18.7 764 95.5 42 484
Nick Chubb 138 17.3 763 95.4 29 512
Miles Sanders 130 16.3 614 76.8 20 286
Travis Etienne 127 14.1 678 75.3 27 319
Aaron Jones 126 14 689 76.6 35 419
Dalvin Cook 125 15.6 637 79.6 23 322
Joe Mixon 124 15.5 503 62.9 15 267

Pierce was also second in attempts (40), and fifth in yardage (151), from Weeks 13-14, before an ankle injury led to his placement on injured reserve. The Texans signed Devin Singletary to a one-year contract, but Singletary’s presence should not deter you from pursuing Pierce in Round 6 of your drafts.

Tyler Badie, Trestan Ebner, and Brittain Brown were included among the 23 backs who were selected before Pacheco during the 2022 NFL Draft. Pacheco was also limited to a 15.6% snap share while averaging 5.5 attempts/27.4 rushing yards per game from Weeks 1-8, including five games in which he failed to generate 10 yards.

However, Pacheco’s propensity to inject explosiveness into Kansas City’s rushing attack propelled him to a 45.2% snap share from Weeks 10-18, while he finished 13th in rushing attempts (126/14.0 per game), and vaulted to fifth in yardage (633/73 per game). He is currently unchallenged as Kansas City’s primary rusher and is primed to ascend into RB2 territory if the Chiefs do not add formidable competition for carries during the upcoming months.

Kamara was a top-four draft selection during the 2021 draft season (RB3) after he averaged a league-high 22.4 points per game and assembled a career-high 932 rushing yards (62.1 per game) during 2020.  He also led all backs in receptions (83/5.5 per game), and receiving yards (756/50.4 per game), and stockpiled a league-best 21 total touchdowns.

Kamara averaged 897.5 rushing yards (64.1 per game) in 2021-2022, but his involvement as a pass catcher declined (52 receptions/3.7 per game),(464 yards/33.2 yards per game). He was also limited to just four touchdowns in 2022. His outlook now contains an unwanted blend of declining usage and a looming possibility of suspension. That should encourage you to avoid him despite his plunging ADP (99/RB34).

White was infused into a Buccaneer backfield that also contained Leonard Fournette as a rookie. This constrained White’s snap share (39%), as he accumulated 129 carries (7.6 per game), and 481 rushing yards (28.3 per game). However, his workload expanded from Weeks 10-17, as White generated 349 yards (49.9 per game) on 87 attempts (12.4 per game).

White did finish second among all backs in receptions (30/5.0 per game) from Weeks 12-17, and was seventh in targets (33 targets/5.5 per game)  and routes run (105) during that span.

Weeks 12-17 Rec Rec/Gm Targets Targ/Gm Routes
Austin Ekeler 34 5.7 40 6.7 99
Rachaad White 30 5 33 5.5 105
Leonard Fournette 29 5.8 32 6.4 93
Christian McCaffrey 28 4,7 38 6.3 119
Jerick McKinnon 28 4.7 34 5.7 106
Saquon Barkley 26 4.3 35 5.8 126
Rhamondre Stevenson 23 3.8 34 5.7 120
James Conner 22 4.4 26 5.2 113
D'Andre Swift 21 3.5 36 6 84
Tony Pollard 18 3.6 23 4.6 73
Josh Jacobs 17 2.8 20 3.3 103

Fournette also finished third in receptions 29/5.8 per game)  and fourth in receiving yards (204/40.8 per game) during that sequence, but his release has positioned White to seize an expanded workload. However, it would problematic for White’s outlook if the Buccaneers secure a back on day 2 of the NFL Draft.

 

Tier 6

Brian Robinson Jr., Zach Charbonnet, Rashaad Penny, A.J. Dillon, Jamaal Williams, Kenneth Gainwell, Antonio Gibson, Damien Harris, Alexander Mattison, Elijah Mitchell, Raheem MostertJeff Wilson Jr.

Robinson was on the reserve/non-football injury list from Weeks 1-4 after being shot during an attempted robbery. However, he still finished fifth in attempts (205/17.1 per game, and 11th in rushing yardage (797/66.4 per game), from Weeks 5-17.

Weeks 5-17 Attempts Att/Gm Yards YardsGm YAC
Josh Jacobs 253 21.1 1272 106 808
Derrick Henry 243 22.1 1123 102.1 773
Saquon Barkley 211 17.6 849 70.8 436
Nick Chubb 209 17.4 989 82.4 659
Brian Robinson 205 17.1 797 66.4 494
Najee Harris 191 15.9 752 62.7 494
Dalvin Cook 190 15.8 857 71.4 467
D'Onta Foreman 186 15.5 830 69.2 505
Kenneth Walker 184 16.7 878 79.8 442
Jamaal Williams 184 15.3 718 59.8 462

He was also ninth in yards after contact (494), and 18th in red zone attempts (24) during that span. Washington’s transition from Scott Turner to Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator should not alter Robinson’s status as the Commanders’ lead back.

The 6’0”, 220-pound Charbonnet’s three-down potential has elevated his ADP to the third highest among all rookies. He accumulated 566 carries, 3,346 yards, and 39 rushing touchdowns during his collegiate career which includes the 398 attempts/2,496 yards/27 touchdowns that he registered following his transfer from Michigan to UCLA.

Charbonnet also collected 61 receptions/518 receiving yards as a Bruin and has demonstrated his ability to perform effectively in pass protection. His ADP (97/RB33) could rise significantly if he is seized during Day 2 of the NFL Draft.

Penny was 11th overall in rushing yardage from Weeks 1-4 (292/73 per game) and seventh in yards after contact (201). A fractured fibula abruptly ended his season in Week 5, which extended his burgeoning list of health issues that have sidelined Penny for a whopping 40 games since his 2018 rookie season.

Penny’s track record of injuries is offset by his ability to accumulate yardage when he is on the field. He has relocated to Philadelphia where he should share opportunities with Kenneth Gainwell unless the Eagles' backfield is reshaped following the NFL Draft.

Josh Jacobs, Rhamondre Stevenson, and Tony Pollard were among the backs that remained available when Dillon was drafted as an RB2 during the 2022 draft season (52/RB19). However, 31 backs are being selected before him in current drafts, which is a byproduct of his statistical decline during 2022.

Dillon‘s average of 9.0 points per game registered a slight decrease when contrasted with his average during 2021 (9.9) as did his per-game averages in rushing attempts (11.0/10.9), and rushing yardage (47.2/45.3). Dillon’s 49.1% snap share also trailed the 57.6% share that was secured by Aaron Jones, whose continued presence maintains a ceiling on Dillon’s usage.

Williams was entrusted with the most extensive workload of his career during 2022 while finishing seventh in rushing attempts (262/15.4 per game), and 10th in rushing yardage (1,066/62.7 per game). He also stockpiled a league-high 58 carries inside the red zone, and capitalized on his opportunities by assembling a league-best 17 rushing touchdowns.

Week 1-18 Inside 20 Inside 10 Inside 5
Jamaal Williams 58 45 33
Kenneth Walker 51 16 10
Austin Ekeler 51 24 11
Miles Sanders 49 26 14
Josh Jacobs 43 23 12
Travis Etienne 43 22 13
Dalvin Cook 42 24 17
Najee Harris 42 22 12
Nick Chubb 41 20 12
Derrick Henry 40 17 15
Tyler Allgeier 39 17 10

 

Weeks 1-18 Attempts Yards TDs
Derrick Henry 349 1538 13
Josh Jacobs 340 1653 12
Nick Chubb 302 1525 12
Saquon Barkley 295 1312 10
Najee Harris 272 1034 7
Dalvin Cook 264 1173 8
Jamaal Williams 262 1066 17
Miles Sanders 259 1269 11
Ezekiel Elliott 231 876 12
Kenneth Walker 228 1050 9

Williams will resurface in New Orleans after signing a three-year, $12 million deal with the Saints. He should be the beneficiary of a respectable workload, and his touches would increase significantly if the looming ramifications of Kamara’s altercation during 2022 ultimately result in a suspension.

Gainwell led Philadelphia’s backfield in targets (29/1.7), receptions (23/1.4 per game), and receiving yards (169/9.9 per game) in 2022, although he failed to finish among the top 40 at his position in all three categories. However, he now enters his third season with an opportunity to solidify his presence as a consistent pass-catching weapon. The departure of Miles Sanders has also created a path for Gainwell to operate in a rotation with Penny in Philadelphia’s reshaped backfield, although that scenario would change if the Eagles seize a back during the NFL Draft.

Gibson averaged 13.3 carries per game as Washington’s primary rusher from Weeks 1-4, but that average dropped to 8.8 per game after Robinson entered the equation in Week 5. Gibson eventually finished second to Robinson in attempts (149) and rushing yardage (546), as his per-game averages plummeted in comparison to his results from 2021 (16.6/9.9 carries), (64.8/36.4 yards). However, he did secure career highs in targets (58/3.9 per game), receptions (46/3.1 per game), and receiving yards (353/23.5 per game), and could commandeer a role as the primary pass-catcher in a  backfield that no longer contains J.D. McKissic.

Harris finished 10th in rushing yardage during 2021 (926/61.9 per game), while finishing fourth in red zone carries (46), and second in touchdowns (15). However, he was sidelined for six contests during 2022 (hamstring/illness/thigh) as Rhamondre Stevenson soared atop New England’s depth chart. Harris later departed after four seasons with the Patriots and signed a one-year deal with Buffalo. This positions him to share touches with James Cook while accumulating carries on early downs and inside the red zone. That elevates him into consideration when your drafts enter Round 9.

Mattison has averaged 6.8 attempts/28.3 rushing yards/1.4 targets per game during his four seasons in Minnesota. However, it is his continual proximity to a mammoth workload during any absence by Dalvin Cook that has provided the appeal of including Mattison on rosters during his tenure with the Vikings.

Mattison signed a two-year, $7 million contract in March, and could soon secure the most extensive role of his career if  Cook is traded or released. His Round 10 ADP (116/RB38) would also surge if that scenario transpires.

Mitchell entered Week 1 as San Francisco’s lead back but sustained a knee injury after just 17 snaps. He did not resurface until Week 10 but surprisingly accumulated a team-high 18 rushing attempts despite the presence of Christian McCaffrey. However, Mitchell suffered a second knee issue in Week 12 which resulted in a second placement on injured reserve. Mitchell has earned Kyle Shanahan’s trust but will remain behind McCaffrey on the 49ers’ depth chart. His track record of health issues should keep him available until Round 12 of your drafts.

Mostert just turned 31 but his accomplishments during 2022 should not be summarily dismissed. His 1,595 total yards placed him seventh overall while he also established career highs in attempts (181/11.3 per game), rushing yards (891/55.7 per game), and targets (42/2.6 per game) and tied for ninth in yards after contact per attempt (2.1).

Mostert also played in 16 matchups while working in a rotation with Jeff Wilson Jr. Miami has yet to secure another back during the offseason, but Mostert’s involvement would be impacted if the Dolphins make a significant addition to the depth chart.

The arrival of another back during the NFL Draft could also modify Wilson’s workload, as he is currently positioned to join Mostert in a rotation that is comparable to his involvement last season. He attained a 53.2% snap share from Weeks 9-18 after the Dolphins secured him via trade with San Francisco. Wilson also averaged 10.5 carries/49.0 yards per game during that sequence, while averaging 9.8 points per game. His Round 18 ADP would rise if the Dolphins’ depth chart remains unchanged.

 

Tiers 7-8

D'Onta Foreman, Jaylen Warren, Zach Evans, Samaje Perine, Ezekiel Elliott Cordarrelle Patterson, Devon Achane, Devin Singletary, Chuba Hubbard, Leonard Fournette, Kareem Hunt, Jerome Ford, Kendre Miller, Tyjae Spears, DeeJay Dallas, Jerick McKinnon, Zamir White, James Robinson, Tank Bigsby, Israel Abanikanda, Roschon Johnson, Chris Evans, Michael Carter, Joshua Kelley, Pierre Strong Jr., Gus Edwards

The backs that are contained in tiers 7 and 8 are located between RB46-RB69 in our rankings. However, the NFL Draft will have a monumental impact on the fantasy landscape while other developments during the upcoming weeks will also have an impact on the outlook for many of these backs.



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REAL-TIME FANTASY NEWS

Steve Erceg

Wins Back-To-Back Fights
Ollie Schmid

Suffers First-Round TKO Loss
Marwan Rahiki

Remains Unbeaten
Bryce Eldridge

Giants to Promote No. 1-Ranked Prospect Bryce Eldridge to MLB Roster
Jonas Brodin

Out for Games 1 and 2 Against Colorado
Joel Eriksson Ek

Will Miss First Two Games of Colorado Series
Joel Kiviranta

Remains Out of the Lineup Versus Minnesota
Anthony Volpe

Reinstated from Injured List, Optioned to Triple-A
Josh Manson

Out for Game 1 Against Minnesota
Carter Bryant

Iffy for Game 1 Against Timberwolves
Joel Embiid

Considered Probable for Monday
Kyle Anderson

Available for Round 2 Opener
Ayo Dosunmu

Tagged as Questionable on Injury Report
Anthony Edwards

Listed as Questionable for Game 1 Against Spurs
Luka Dončić

Luka Doncic Unavailable for Start of Round 2, Considered Week-to-Week
Brandon Ingram

Won't Play in Game 7 Against Cavaliers
Ranger Suarez

Exits Sunday's Start with Hamstring Tightness
Agustín Ramírez

Marlins Demote Agustin Ramirez to Triple-A
Victor Hedman

Will Not Play Sunday Versus Montreal
Noah Dobson

Will Play Against Tampa Bay on Sunday
Marvin Mims Jr.

Path to Dynasty Relevance May Require a Change in Scenery
Tank Bigsby

Remains a High-End Dynasty Handcuff Running Back in Philadelphia
Ben Rice

Exits Sunday's Contest with Left Hand Contusion
Hunter Henry

Long-Term Future in New England in Question After NFL Draft?
Matthew Golden

a Prime Dynasty Buy-Low Candidate Heading into 2026
Kevin Huerter

is Out for Game 7
Jalen Coker

Carries Breakout Potential into 2026
Dak Prescott

Remains a Dynasty QB1 Heading into 2026
Nikola Vučević

Nikola Vucevic Could be Done in Boston
Christopher Bell

Is Christopher Bell Worth Rostering for Texas Lineups?
Cal Raleigh

Considered Day-to-Day With Soreness in his Side
Brandon Ingram

is Downgraded to Doubtful for Game 7
William Byron

Might have the Speed to Compete for the Win at Texas
Jonathan Isaac

Remains Out for Game 7
Joey Logano

Provides Solid Upside for Texas DFS Lineups
Joe Ryan

Exits Early From Start on Sunday Due to Elbow Soreness
Chase Briscoe

Could Chase Briscoe be A Sneaky Pick for Texas Lineups?
Ty Gibbs

Should DFS Managers Roster Ty Gibbs at Texas?
Daniel Suarez

Is Daniel Suarez Worth Rostering After Career-Best Starting Position at Texas?
Daniel Palencia

Cubs Reinstate Daniel Palencia From the Injured List on Sunday
Kyle Busch

Is a DFS Risk Starting in the Top 10 at Texas
Ronald Acuña Jr.

Braves Place Ronald Acuna Jr. on Injured List With Strained Hamstring
Nick Lodolo

Expected to Make Season Debut on Friday
Tyler Reddick

One of the Favorites to Win Texas
Chase Elliott

Could Contend for Another Win at Texas
Carson Hocevar

on Pole at Texas
NASCAR

Bubba Wallace Wrecks in Practice at Texas
Chris Buescher

Looking to Continue Strong Run at Texas
Austin Dillon

Blows Engine in Practice at Texas
CeeDee Lamb

Is CeeDee Lamb Being Undervalued?
Bijan Robinson

Could Just Be Entering His Dynasty Prime
Derrick White

Delivers All-Around Line in Game 7 Loss
Neemias Queta

Finishes with Double-Double in Playoff Loss
Malik Washington

Emerging as a Low-Cost Dynasty Buy Out of Ambiguous Receiver Room
Jaylen Brown

Posts Strong Line but Celtics Fall Short
Diego Pavia

Ravens Noncommital on Diego Pavia's Future with Team
Tyrese Maxey

Dominates in Series-Clinching Victory
David Njoku

Visiting the Chargers on Monday
VJ Edgecombe

Provides Key Spark in Game 7 Win
Patrick Mahomes

Expected to Participate in OTAs
Joel Embiid

Delivers 34 Points in Series Clincher
Ayo Dosunmu

Considered Day-to-Day Ahead of Game 1
Mike Reilly

Delivers Two Assists in Game 1 Win
Logan Stankoven

Establishes New Franchise Record With Five-Game Goal Streak
Frederik Andersen

Records Second Postseason Shutout
Radko Gudas

Ducks Hope to See Radko Gudas Return During Second Round
Josh Manson

Day-to-Day Ahead of Game 1 Against Wild
Joel Kiviranta

Considered Day-to-Day
Joel Eriksson Ek

Questionable for Game 1 Against Avalanche
Cal Raleigh

Scratched From Lineup, No Reason Given
Ronald Acuña Jr.

Ronald Acuna Jr. Exits with Left Hamstring Tightness
Anthony Edwards

Remains Week-to-Week
Joel Embiid

Available for Game 7 Against Celtics
Paul George

Cleared to Play Saturday
Owen Tippett

Unlikely to Play Saturday
Jonas Brodin

to Miss Game 1 Against Avalanche
Nikita Zadorov

Played Through Torn MCL in Playoffs
Connor McDavid

Played With Fractured Foot Against Ducks
Alexander Nikishin

a Game-Time Call Saturday
Nikolaj Ehlers

Expected to Play Saturday
Greg Dulcich

Carries Breakout Potential into 2026
Kaelon Black

Well-Positioned for Dynasty Success Following NFL Draft
J'Mari Taylor

Can J'Mari Taylor Break Through Crowded Running Back Depth Chart in Jacksonville?
Eli Raridon

Dynasty Stock Rising Following NFL Draft
Michael Trigg

Facing Uphill Battle for a Roster Spot in Dallas
Matthew Hibner

Is Matthew Hibner the Tight End of the Future in Baltimore?
Seth McGowan

Likely to be RB3 to Begin his Rookie Season
Caleb Douglas

a Low-Upside Dynasty Stash Competing for a Role in Miami
Francis Mauigoa

Giants "Comfortable" With Francis Mauigoa's Back
Yandy Díaz

Yandy Diaz Leaves With Side Tightness, Considered Day-to-Day
Jacob Misiorowski

Leaves Start Early on Friday With Hamstring Cramp
Brandon Nimmo

Aggravates Hamstring, Pulled Early on Friday
Ryan Helsley

Placed on Injured List With Elbow Inflammation
Dylan Holloway

Signs Five-Year Extension With Blues
Barrett Hayton

Jack McBain Iffy for Friday
Ryan Pepiot

to Miss the Rest of the Season, Scheduled for Hip Surgery
Brandon Woodruff

Goes on Injured List With Shoulder Inflammation
Nico Hoerner

Leaves Friday's Game Early With Neck Tightness
Jack Della Maddalena

Returns At UFC Perth
Carlos Prates

Set For UFC Perth Main Event
Quillan Salkilld

Set For Co-Main Event
Beneil Dariush

An Underdog At UFC Perth
Steve Erceg

Looks To Win Back-To-Back Fights
Tim Elliott

Looks For His Third Consecutive Win
Ollie Schmid

Set For His UFC Debut
Marwan Rahiki

Looks To Remain Undefeated
Wyatt Langford

Suffers Setback With Forearm Injury
Brandon Woodruff

to Get Some Time Off
Gary Woodland

Riding Momentum Into Cadillac Championship
Jordan Spieth

Brings Boom-or-Bust Potential to Cadillac Championship
Adam Scott

Looks Poised for Another Strong Finish at Doral
Maverick McNealy

Needs Approach Game to Click at Doral
CFB

Jameson Williams Files Lawsuit Against NCAA, SEC, Big Ten
Harry Hall

Volatility Continues at Cadillac Championship
Tommy Fleetwood

Looks to Rebound at Trump National Doral
Pierceson Coody

a Risky Value Play at Cadillac Championship
Akshay Bhatia

Offers Upside with Risk at Cadillac Championship
Justin Thomas

a Scary Proposition at Cadillac Championship
Scottie Scheffler

The Leading Favorite at Cadillac Championship
Collin Morikawa

Still a Smash Play at Cadillac Championship
Viktor Hovland

Showed at Augusta He Can Finish Well
Sepp Straka

Attempting to Finish Better in Miami
PGA

J.J Spaun Enduring Roller Coaster Start to 2026
Min Woo Lee

Seeks to Make Adjustments at Cadillac Championship
Max Homa

May Struggle at Old Doral This Weekend
Ben Griffin

Rebounds From Rough Stretch as Miami Looms
Shane Lowry

Searching For Answers at Cadillac Championship
Russell Henley

Daunting Test at Doral Likely Not a Place For Russell Henley
Justin Rose

Returns to Action After Finishing Third at Masters Tournament
Hideki Matsuyama

Has The Approach Game to Win at Cadillac Championship
CFB

Brendan Sorsby Facing Potential Permanent Loss of Eligibility
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