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Running Backs Waiver Wire: Week 2 Pickups & Adds

Week 1 didn't see any huge breakout performances from rookies or unknown running backs, but there still could be some hints as to who will emerge from crowded backfields. Keep in mind, some of the names on this running back waiver wire list are already widely known by fantasy owners but still have low ownership levels. Pay attention to the tiers in which they are listed and the corresponding notes.

Each week, this article will aim to highlight running backs that you should consider targeting on your league's waiver wire. Players will be split up into three tiers from most desirable to most desperate. I will also include players at the bottom of this list that you might consider cutting in order to make room for your new additions. All players listed have 50% or less ownership levels across Fleaflicker leagues.

Editor's Note: Purchase a full season NFL Premium Pass (including DFS Premium), and also get MLB Premium + DFS for free through the playoffs. Premium DFS research, lineup picks, expert lineups, tools and more. You can see screenshots of our NFL Premium and MLB Premium and DFS tools. What are you waiting for?

Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2025:

 

Frontrunners for Week 2 - Running Backs Waiver Wire

This group consists of running backs that I would unconditionally recommend adding if they are available on your waiver wire. These players have either earned a greater workload due to injury or performance issues or shown that they can be weekly contributors to their NFL teams.

Tevin Coleman (RB, ATL) - 42% owned

Devonta Freeman owners are cursing the name of Tevin Coleman, but I tried to warn you months ago. The Falcons coaching staff was true to their word and gave Coleman nearly equal time with Freeman. Coleman finished with a paltry eight carries for 22 yards, while Freeman was even worse with 11 carries for 20 yards. His main contribution was in the passing game as he turned five catches into 95 yards. Coleman is now firmly in the flex discussion for PPR leagues.

Theo Riddick (RB, DET) - 34% owned

At one point, it looked like the running backs in Detroit might match the wide receivers in terms of receiving production. Ameer Abdullah delivered the type of performance fantasy owners were waiting for, but the funny thing is that Riddick still provided solid value as well. Riddick scored twice and went for 108 total yards. Granted, the Colts defense didn't put up much of a fight with their decimated secondary, but if there were any fears of Riddick's role being reduced this year, it didn't seem that way in Week 1. Riddick's stock saw arguably the biggest climb of all running backs on this list.

James White (RB, NE) - 47% owned

White was invisible in the running game, but that's not why you own him anyway. Facing the Cardinals in the desert is one of the toughest matchups New England will face, so give White the benefit of the doubt. I know it's hard to trust any Patriots RB, but White will produce a huge game here and there and you'll want him in your lineup when it happens. He remains a PPR flex option and should see more space against the Dolphins in Week 2.

 

In The Running - Week 2 Running Backs Waiver Wire

This group consists of running backs widely available on the waiver wire who aren't must-adds, but could be worth stashing or streaming if the above options are already taken.

Jalen Richard (RB, OAK) - 3% owned

DeAndre Washington was not the Oakland running back to serve as the lightning to Latavius Murray's thunder on Sunday. The rookie out of Southern Miss was an afterthought entering the season, as DeAndre Washington was getting all the attention. He saw just 10 carries for 45 yards all preseason and wasn't even a lock to make the roster. Yet Richard caught everyone's attention by turning in one explosive play with a 75 yard TD run against New Orleans. He isn't guaranteed to see steady playing time, but now that he has shown what he is capable of, he could make himself a factor down the line.

Charcandrick West (RB, KC) - 16% owned

It sounds as if Jamaal Charles will be sitting again in Week 2, so there will be another big dose of Spencer Ware. Don't forget about West though, as he caught six passes in the Chiefs big comeback victory. Ware did enough to hold onto the job, but West looms as a change-of-pace and may get more carries if the Chiefs don't fall behind early again. The matchup against Houston's D is not ideal, so temper expectations.

Chris Thompson (RB, WAS) - 2% owned

Thompson wasn't certain to play in Week 1 with a bum shoulder, but finally came off the injury report on Thursday. He played the third-down back role and even found the end zone. Rob Kelley didn't see the field despite a solid preseason, but Jay Gruden may be choosing experience over potential early on. He has a total of 251 rushing yards and 283 receiving yards entering his fourth NFL season. Thompson is limited to deep PPR league value, but is next up if Matt Jones gets injured.

Honorable Mentions: DeAndre Washington (RB, OAK) - 25% owned, James Starks (RB, GB) - 27% owned, Bilal Powell (RB, NYJ) - 38% owned, Shane Vereen (RB, NYG) - 14% owned, Shaun Draughn (RB, SF) - 3% owned

 

Dark Horses - Week 2 Running Backs Waiver Wire

This group consists of running backs who are strictly desperation plays. They could serve as a bye week fill-in, short-term injury replacement or weekly lottery ticket.

Devontae Booker (RB, DEN) - 17% owned

Nothing much has changed with Booker's outlook although it didn't seem too promising in week 1. Booker got to see action early in the game and promptly fumbled his first NFL carry. C.J. Anderson proceeded to dominate the field, putting up 139 total yards and two TD. Booker was not going to make an immediate impact anyway, but he could still be in the mix by mid-season. He is a stash for deep league owners and a necessary handcuff for Anderson.

Jordan Howard (RB, CHI) - 10% owned

Howard didn't see the field, which was a disappointment for those wanting to see the rookie get his chance. Jeremy Langford was clearly the lead back as expected, but only managed 3.3 Y/A on 17 carries. Howard will have to wait for his chance, but keep him on your radar for now.

Tyler Ervin (RB, HOU) - 2% owned

Lamar Miller showed us what he is capable of in an offense that actually wants him to carry the ball. Alfred Blue remains the primary backup after filling in all last year as the starter. But Tyler Ervin did see the field for one carry and two targets. Blue failed to seize his chance to be Houston's RB with a mediocre performance last year, making Ervin the backup with more upside. He is a deep-league handcuff only at the moment, but could have value in leagues that reward kick return stats.

Damien Williams (RB, MIA) - 0% owned

If Jay Ajayi is still in the doghouse, Damien Williams officially remains the #2 RB in Miami. That means he is an Arian Foster injury away (*knocks furiously on wooden desk) from becoming a starter. He has little value unless that happens, but he will see run before Kenyan Drake.

Travaris Cadet (RB, NO) - 0% owned

C.J. Spiller's unexpected release after Week 1 makes Cadet the pass-catching back of choice in New Orleans. He isn't nearly as talented as combine beast Daniel Lasco, but he will be the one on the field the next several Sundays. He scored a touchdown after managing three catches for 14 yards against Oakland.

Honorable Mentions: Mike Gillislee (RB, BUF) - 1% owned, Kenjon Barner (RB, PHI) -  1% owned, Rob Kelley (RB, WAS) - 7% owned, Daniel Lasco (RB, NO) - 0% owned

 

Also-Rans

Javorius Allen (RB, BAL) - 7% owned

He wasn't listed on the injury report and was expected to play a role in the passing game on Sunday. Instead, the Ravens declared him inactive at the last minute and rolled with Terrance West/Justin Forsett exclusively. Even if Allen does come back, he doesn't figure to play much of a role outside of occasional passing downs now that Forsett is back in the mix.

Chris Johnson (RB, ARI) - 13% owned

If there was any doubt about David Johnson being a feature back, those were officially squashed on Sunday night. The idea of Johnson sharing carries to any extent was deflated by his absence against New England. Johnson saw just two snaps and is nothing but a bench warmer as long as DJ is rolling.

Marshawn Lynch (RB, SEA) - 13% owned

Sorry, but as long as I see him on my TV screen slaughtering wild boars with Bear Grylls, I'm not buying the comeback thing. You know he's doing this just to mess with you, right?

 


Check out RotoBaller's famous fantasy football draft sleepers and waiver wire pickups list, updated regularly!




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