Running Back Best-Ball Rankings Analysis

August 25, 2021

Running back rankings analysis for 2021 best ball drafts for RBs in the top tiers. Phil Clark breaks down the best values relative to ADP for best ball leagues.

Many of you are now dedicating your focus toward draft preparation and roster construction during these final weeks of the offseason. That includes anyone who is involved in the best-ball format. Multiple factors are incorporated into your preparations before you enter each draft room, which will expedite the eventual decision-making process for every selection. It is beneficial to make sure that your plan will accommodate all aspects of your league’s scoring, while also addressing any other nuances that might be unique to that league.

But it is also critical that you remain flexible so that you can instantly adjust your thinking if unexpected opportunities develop at any point during each draft. This is particularly true for the best-ball format, which does not provide the option of in-season roster management. That’s why the team at RotoBaller is providing the resources you need that will help you prepare for every draft in this popular format. 

We will also deliver breakdowns of the latest tiered rankings following every update. That includes my two-part series that will examine the ever-critical running back position. This article will place the spotlight on tiers 1-3, and you can find all of the latest rankings here.

RB Best Ball Rankings

Tier 1

Christian McCaffrey,  Dalvin Cook,  Alvin Kamara, Derrick Henry, Ezekiel Elliott, Aaron Jones,  Jonathan Taylor,

Can't wait to see Christian McCaffrey back next season 🔥

• 1 of 3 RBs with 1K receiving yards and 1K rushing yards in a season

• Only RB to have 2 seasons with 100+ receptions

• Most receptions by a RB in a season (116) and a game (15) pic.twitter.com/brbePyBOXw

— NFL Stats (@NFL_Stats) April 8, 2021

McCaffrey’s extended absence during 2020 (13 missed games), has not deterred fantasy managers from maintaining his status as the top overall selection in current drafts. He has earned that distinction after assembling 2,485 yards and 22 touchdowns on the ground during 2018-2019, while accumulating 266 targets (8.3 per game), 223 receptions (7 per game), and 1,872 yards (58.5 per game), as an exceptional receiving weapon.

He remains one of just three players to generate 1,000 rushing and 1,000 receiving yards in the same season and is the only back to collect 100 receptions in two different seasons. McCaffrey also averaged 30.1 points per game during his three matchups in Joe Brady’s offense, and will reclaim an extensive workload as the primary component in Carolina’s attack.

Cook remains entrenched as an elite back, due to the combination of his exceptional ability, and his ongoing role as the foundation of Minnesota’s run-oriented offense. He averaged 22.3 attempts last season, while finishing second among all backs in carries (312), and rushing yardage (1,557/111.2 yards per game). He was also second in rushing touchdowns (16), first downs (91), yards before contact (801), and yards after contact (756). Cook also finished 10th among backs in receiving yards (361), while averaging 3.9 targets per game.

The Vikings ranked sixth in run play percentage during 2020 (45.8%), while their defense surrendered nearly 30 points per game (29.7). But the defense was bolstered during the offseason. Any notable reduction in points allowed would lead to favorable game scripts, and increased reliance on Cook.

It's hard to stop Alvin Kamara when the ball is in his hands!@A_kamara6's highlights from the 2020 season. ⬇ pic.twitter.com/x3BQ7C6AYU

— NFL (@NFL) February 25, 2021

Kamara finished at RB1 in scoring during 2020, due to his continued proficiency as both a rusher and receiver. He accumulated a career-high 932 yards (62.1 per game) while averaging over 12 attempts per game for a third consecutive season. He also collected a career-high 107 targets, and has now eclipsed 100+ three times since his 2017 rookie season. He also led all backs in receiving yards (756/50.4 per game), receiving touchdowns (5). and receptions (83/5.5 per game), while exceeding 80 receptions for the fourth straight year.

The absence of Michael Thomas has intensified the Saints’ shortage of dynamic weapons. It also guarantees that Kamara will operate as the most critical component in Sean Payton’s reshaped attack.

Henry has captured the NFL rushing title in each of his last two seasons while stockpiling 3,567 yards and 16 100-yard performances during that span. He also led the league in attempts (378/303), touchdowns (17/16) and yards after contact (1,073/968), while averaging 21.9 carries and 115.1 yards per game during that sequence.

Can you guess how many Derrick Henry carries have gone for 15+ yards over the last two seasons?

𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗧𝗬.

𝗡𝗶𝗻𝗲. 𝗭𝗲𝗿𝗼.

No other RB comes close to the King. 👑 (via @PFF) @kinghenry_2 pic.twitter.com/N3tpOEo4ha

— NFL (@NFL) June 6, 2021

Tennessee promoted former tight ends coach Todd Downing to the role of offensive coordinator following the departure of Arthur Smith, and the Titans also secured former Falcon Julio Jones. However, neither of these developments will alter Henry’s status as the cornerstone of Tennessee’s attack. Any apprehension surrounding the wear and tear that is associated with Henry’s usage should also be offset by the potential output that he can deliver in his workhorse role.

Elliott was RB3 in scoring after Week 5, while averaging 17.8 attempts, and 72.8 yards per game during that span. But he dropped to RB24 from Weeks 6-17, while averaging 15.5 attempts and 61. 5 yards per game during those contests. Elliott’s decline in usage and production occurred after Dak Prescott’s season-ending injury (ankle), while Elliott also contended with his own health issues as the year progressed (hamstring/calf/quad). These factors contributed to the lowest averages of Elliott’s career in attempts per game (16.3), yards per game (65.3), and yards per carry average (4.0). Tony Pollard is perpetually lurking as a threat to pilfer touches after finishing at RB25 in scoring from Weeks 12-17. But Elliott’s RB1 responsibilities remain secure.

.@Showtyme_33 walks it in! @Packers are rolling. #GoPackGo

📺: #CARvsGB on @NFLNetwork
📱: NFL app // Yahoo Sports app: https://t.co/tzVZA3kX6h pic.twitter.com/wOAwfTWUoG

— NFL (@NFL) December 20, 2020

Jones demonstrated his ability to operate effectively as Green Bay’s primary back during each of his last two seasons, while averaging 14.6 attempts, 72.9 rushing yards, and 4.4 targets per game during those contests. He also finished fourth with a 78.9  yards per game average during 2020, which launched him to fourth in yardage for the season (1,104). That established a new career-high, which was generated despite his absence in Weeks 7-8 (calf).

Jones also finished fourth in yards after contact (592) and was also rewarded with a four-year contract in March. Any hesitation in securing Jones as an RB1 should have dissipated with the return of Aaron Rodgers, as he is now a top-six selection at his position.

Any fantasy managers who endured the excruciating start to Taylor’s rookie season are already aware that he ignited for exceptional rushing numbers during his final six matchups. Taylor was 14th in attempts (113/12.6 per game), and just 23rd in rushing yardage (428/47.6 per game) from Weeks 1-10. But his workload increased sizably from Weeks 11-17 (19.8 attempts per game), while he finished second in rushing yardage during those contests (741/123.5 yards per game). He also averaged 24.3 points per game during that sequence, which cemented his elite status. Nyheim Hines will siphon targets, and Marlon Mack could receive a percentage of touches. But Taylor will stockpile rushing yardage, and should be targeted early in Round 2 of your drafts.

Tier 2

 Saquon Barkley Nick Chubb, Austin Ekeler, Antonio Gibson, Najee Harris,  J.K. Dobbins, Joe Mixon

Barkley's current ADP (13/RB8) indicates the prevailing optimism that he will overcome internal obstacles within the Giant offense. Barkley had ascended to RB1 in scoring in 2018 (24.1 points per game), while emerging as just the third rookie to surpass 2,000 total yards. But the multiple injuries that he incurred in 2019-2020 (ACL/ankle) forced his absence during 17 matchups, while preventing him from building on the exceptional numbers that he delivered as a newcomer. The Giants’ depth chart does not present formidable competition for touches (Devontae Booker/Corey Clement), although his workload could be managed initially. Any decision to invest in Barkley also assumes the inherent risk of disappointment, due to deficiencies within the offensive line, and the production-inhibiting potential of Jason Garrett’s strategic approach.

Chubb was third in rushing yardage from Weeks 1-4 (335/83.8 per game/5.9 per attempt) before an injury (MCL) sidelined him during four matchups. But he still finished seventh overall for the season (1,067/88.9 per game) after assembling 732 yards (91.5 per game) from Weeks 10-17. Chubb was also fourth in yards before contact (556) and overcame minimal usage as a receiver (1.5 targets/1.3 receptions/12.5 yards per game) to finish at RB9 in point per game scoring. The Browns finished fourth in run play percentage during 2020 (48.4%), and their commitment to the ground game should remain robust. Chubb’s ongoing role in a rotation with Kareem Hunt will impact his overall production. But Chubb’s unquestioned proficiency sustains his status as a low-end RB1.

Austin Ekeler scored a touchdown every 𝟲𝟬.𝟯 opportunities in 2020

If you remove the one game with Tyrod Taylor as his QB and the one game he got hurt, he averaged 12 carries and 8 targets per game in 2020

He scored a touchdown every 𝟮𝟭.𝟴 opportunities in 2019

2021? ⚡⚡ pic.twitter.com/CL88zYXwz9

— Adam Koffler (@AdamKoffler) June 22, 2021

The same dual-threat capabilities that propelled Ekeler to RB4 in 2019, also fueled his finish at RB12 in point per game scoring last season. He also returned from a six-game absence to pace all backs in targets (48/8 per game), and receptions (37/6.2 per game), while finishing second in receiving yards (259/43.1 per game) from Weeks 12-17. New coordinator Joe Lombardi spent 12 of the last 14 seasons with New Orleans, and his background should fuel a strategic approach that capitalizes on Ekeler's versatility. This will help Ekeler sustain his proficiency as a receiving weapon while accumulating 500+ rushing yards for a fourth consecutive season. It also delivers your incentive to confidently select him as an RB1.

Instant impact for @WashingtonNFL's new RB.

The TOP plays from @AntonioGibson14's rookie season! pic.twitter.com/uMwnqGPXH3

— NFL (@NFL) March 13, 2021

Despite minimal involvement as a rusher during his collegiate career (33 attempts), Gibson averaged 12.1 carries per game during his 2020 rookie season. That average rose to 15 per game from Weeks 7-12, as Gibson ascended to sixth in rushing yardage (402/80.4 per game) during those contests. He also led the league in touchdowns (8), which propelled his rise to seventh overall for the season in that category (11). Gibson has elevated among the most enticing backs to target during the draft process, as he should build on last season’s promising numbers. He will continue to operate as Washington’s lead rusher and appears primed to capture an expanded role as a receiver. This should incentivize managers to target him as a low-end RB1.

Harris stockpiled 2,690 yards and 39 touchdowns on the ground during his final two seasons at Alabama, while also adding 729 yards and 11 touchdowns as a receiving weapon. He also generated 1,891 total yards and 30 touchdowns during 2020. Harris was operating behind an exceptional offensive line that received the Joe Moore Award - which is presented to the best line in college football. Now, he will navigate within an offense that finished just 30th in Football Outsiders’ Rush DVOA (Defense-Adjusted Over Average) during 2020. However, Harris’ talent is undisputed, and his role as Pittsburgh’s workhorse back will be secure. That supplies your motivation for targeting him as a borderline RB1 during Round 2 of your drafts.

Dobbins averaged 12.1 attempts per game from Weeks 8-17, while finishing eighth in rushing yards (651/72.3 per game) and sixth in touchdowns (7). That vaulted him to RB9 in scoring during that span, despite his minimal usage as a receiver (1.1 targets/5.1 yards per game). He will assemble favorable numbers as a rusher this season. But multiple factors should cause hesitation in selecting Dobbins at his current ADP (26/RB15). Gus Edwards accumulated more carries than Dobbins during 2020 (144/134), and his role remains secure following a two-year contract extension. Lamar Jackson has also stockpiled 335 carries and 2,211 yards since 2019. Dobbins’ minimal usage as a receiver will not rise significantly, which will compress his touch total even further.

After eclipsing 1,130 rushing yards in 2018 and 2019, Mixon’s foot injury limited him to just six games, and 428 yards last season. However, the numbers that he had assembled before his extended absence had launched him to RB9 in PPR scoring. Mixon capitalized on his extensive workload (19.8 attempts per game) while rising overall to seventh overall in rushing yardage (71.3 per game) entering Week 7.

Mixon’s average in attempts per game has now increased during each of his four seasons (12.7/16.9/17.4/19.8), while last year’s 4.3 target per game average also established a career-high. He should commandeer a massive workload while operating in the most potent offense of his career. This should compel managers to select him at his current ADP (21/RB13).

Tier 3

David Montgomery, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, D'Andre Swift, Chris Carson, Miles Sanders, James Robinson, Josh Jacobs, Javonte Williams

Montgomery’s career-best 2020 output included his unexpected finish at RB4 in scoring. He also surpassed 1,000 rushing yards (1,070), and essentially doubled his target total from 2019 (68/35).

DAVID MONTGOMERY HOUSE CALLpic.twitter.com/hMBwkkaRNG

— PFF (@PFF) December 13, 2020

His statistical rise was fueled by his usage and output from Weeks 12-17, when Montgomery climbed to second overall in attempts (116/19.3 per game) third in rushing yardage (598/99.7 per game) and third in rushing touchdowns (7). Tarik Cohen’s extended absence remains ongoing (ACL), while Damien Williams has emerged as the probable candidate to function as Chicago’s RB2. Williams established career-highs in targets (37/3.4 per game), and receptions (30/2.7 per game) in 2019 before opting out last season. But his involvement will not impede Montgomery from commandeering an extensive workload. That makes him a worthy target at his Round 3 ADP (32/RB17).

Edwards-Helaire was 13th among all backs with a 66% snap share during his first six matchups as a rookie. He also rose to second in rushing yardage (505/84.2 per game) third in attempts (107/17.8 per game), and fourth in targets (31/5.2 per game) during that sequence. But a combination of health issues (illness/hip/ankle) and the arrival of Le’Veon Bell reduced his usage and output from Weeks 7-17 (10.6 attempts/42.6 yards/3.3 targets per game). However, Bell remains unemployed while the depth chart below Edwards-Helaire is comprised of Darrel Williams, Jerick McKinnon, and Darwin Thompson. That places Edwards-Helaire in position to sustain a workload that replicates his touch totals from Weeks 1-6. However, managers should monitor his current ankle issue before targeting him at his ADP (24/RB14).

Swift’s 2020 production was impacted by the obstacles of a congested backfield, along with his absence during three contests (illness/concussion). But he still led all rookie backs in receiving yardage (357/27.5 per game), and was second in targets, (57/4.4 per game) and receptions (46/3.5 per game).

These numbers also placed him 11th overall among backs in receptions, while he was 13th in both targets and receptions. Swift also generated 10 touchdowns, including eight that were assembled on the ground. He returns for a second season as Detroit’s most dynamic back, although his superior talent will not elevate him beyond a timeshare with former Packer Jamaal Williams. However, when Swift has fully recovered from his groin issue, his proficiency as a receiver will keep him highly involved within an attack that is devoid of dangerous weaponry.

CHRIS CARSON BEASTQUAKE 😤pic.twitter.com/c1Q0NmKo1N

— PFF (@PFF) October 12, 2020

Carson signed a two-year contract in March, following initial speculation that he might not return to Seattle. This has sustained his role as the Seahawks’ primary back after leading the team in attempts and rushing yards from 2018-2020 (666 attempts/16.2 per game), (3,062 yards/74.7 per game). He also finished among the top 13 in points-per game scoring during each of the last three seasons. He was sidelined from Weeks 8-11 in 2020 (foot), but re-emerged to finish 12th overall in yardage from Weeks 12-16.

Rashaad Penny is healthy following his extended absence (knee). But that still leaves Carson without a legitimate competitor for Seattle’s lead back duties. It also cements him as a viable option at the conclusion of Round 3 in your drafts.

Miles Sanders highlights are officially back on your feed. #LARvsPHI | #FlyEaglesFly

📺: FOX pic.twitter.com/UbepPVXxnx

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 20, 2020

Sanders finished 14th in rushing yardage last season (867), although his season-long output was affected by a five-game absence (knee/hamstring). But he finished seventh overall with a 72.3 yards per game average and was tied for fourth in yards before contact per attempt (3.0). His catch rate decreased to 53.8%, as he collected just 29 of his 52 targets. This inefficiency could create a path for Kenny Gainwell to siphon targets. However, Sanders also finished at RB7 with Jalen Hurts under center (Weeks 14-16), while averaging 78.7 rushing yards, 4.3 targets, and 3.0 receptions per game. Sanders’ role in the Eagles’ attack under Nick Sirianni and Shane Steichen, supplies managers with rationale to target him at his Round 4 ADP (40/RB20).

Robinson’s 2020 numbers were both unexpected and exceptional after the undrafted free agent finished sixth overall in both attempts (240/17.1 per game) and rushing yardage (1,070/76.4 per game). He was also third in yards after contact (615), 11th among backs in targets (60/4.3 per game), and RB7 in point per game scoring. However, 30 other backs were being drafted before Robinson in this year's drafts, as the result of Jacksonville's Round 1 investment in Travis Etienne. But Robinson's ADP rose from 81 (RB31) to 60 (RB26) within 24 hours following news of Etienne's devastating Lisfranc injury. Etienne’s absence will expand Robinson's workload even further, while also providing managers with a viable RB2 option.

Jacobs finished at RB8 last season, while leading all backs in red zone carries (64). He also placed among the top five in attempts (273/71 per game), first downs (62), red zone yardage (166), and rushing touchdowns (12). His role as the Raiders’ lead runner will not be threatened by the arrival of Kenyan Drake. However, it does ensure that Jacobs’ involvement as a receiver will remain minimal. He has averaged 2.6 targets, 1.9 receptions, and 14.4 receptions per games during his first two seasons, and Jon Gruden remains steadfast in limiting Jacobs’ pass-catching opportunities. The Raiders also dismantled a formidable offensive line by discarding three proven starters. That enhances the risk in targeting Jacobs before his ADP (41/RB20).

Williams accumulated 2,073 rushing yards during 2019-2020, despite sharing the workload with Michael Carter. He finished 20th in attempts last season (157). But he also averaged 7.3 yards per attempt, while finishing sixth in yardage (1,140), and third in touchdowns (19). He also generated 305 yards as a receiver, and his physical style should propel him to a sizable touch total.

Broncos fans might be interested in this highlight from Javonte Williams 😮 pic.twitter.com/yrgLE6ycu5

— Stadium (@Stadium) April 30, 2021

Denver traded up in order to secure Williams with the 35th pick in April’s NFL Draft. and he should supplant Melvin Gordon as the Broncos RB1 during the season. This places him in position to easily outperform the expectations of his current ADP (51/RB23).

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