A fantasy draft is all about obtaining the most value with each selection. Value is available throughout a draft, and grabbing it is one of the most important keys to a successful fantasy team. To point out this value, we asked our staff to look through the Top 150 and identify players that should outperform their draft position.
Related: See the 6 Undervalued Wide Receivers You Need to Know >>>
Our staff came up with 27 total undervalued running backs. We sifted those names down to the seven value backs we love.
Here are the players who received the most votes:
And here are all of the players mentioned and the reasons why.
Player Receiving 7 Votes
J.K. Dobbins, Baltimore Ravens
Gary Davenport: Not too long ago, Dobbins was set to be a fantasy superstar, achieving over 900 total yards and an average of six yards per carry. However, an ACL tear erased his entire 2021 season, and another knee procedure led to him missing nine games the following year. Despite this, Dobbins began to resemble his impressive rookie form towards the end of the 2022 season, recording at least 90 rushing yards in three out of his last four regular-season games. If he maintains his health this year, a top-20 fantasy option seems to be his minimum, while a top-10 finish isn't out of the question.
Christian Williams: Despite hobbling throughout 2022, Dobbins managed to average over five yards per carry. In 2023, with hopes of a healthier season and while the Ravens are expected to run the ball less, Dobbins' efficiency could reach a career-high. Given his excellent receiving skills and the offensive strategy of Todd Monken, he should see a substantial workload. At RB21, managers are getting a high-value player with a possible top-ten return.
Matt Waldman: Following a second surgery in 2022, Dobbins displayed the explosive ability that made him a standout rookie. Equipped with a similar level of talent as Jonathan Taylor and arguably superior receiving skills, Dobbins could become a central feature in Todd Monken's offensive scheme. Drafted as a fantasy RB2, his floor value is a promising indicator for this year.
Kevin Coleman: Dobbins could emerge as the breakout running back that every fantasy manager seeks. His skill set aligns perfectly with new offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s system, which emphasizes RPOs, zone reads, and screens. Given Monken’s history of using running backs in the passing game, Dobbins may see a significant increase in passing game usage, potentially raising his PPR ceiling.
Daniel Harms: With Todd Monken's appointment as offensive coordinator, a healthy Dobbins is poised to reap the benefits. He closed the 2022 season strong, with significant yards both on the ground and through the air. He was seventh in breakaway percentage and gained most of his yards after contact. Given Monken's offense, Dobbins may see an increase in targets as well.
Andy Hicks: Dobbins has displayed an impressive finish in the last two seasons he has played. After overcoming a devastating knee injury, he managed to maintain a high yards-per-carry rate. The talent is evident, and in 2023, we should finally see the anticipated results.
Jeff Bell: Dobbins has yet to deliver a full high-level season due to injury. However, when healthy, his potential is clear. The Ravens are expected to rely heavily on him, especially given Lamar Jackson's substantial contract extension and a possible desire to reduce his rushing. At RB21, Dobbins has a vast scope to outperform his ADP.
Player Receiving 6 Votes
Joe Mixon, Cincinnati Bengals
Phil Alexander: Mixon ended 2022 as the RB6 per game. He remains with the Bengals, who are set to keep a similar offense that ranked in the top 10 last season. And with Samaje Perine's departure, Mixon's ADP doesn't accurately reflect his role as the Bengals' clear starter. He merits a top-10 spot and will likely achieve it by August. Now is the perfect time to draft him at a value.
Dan Hindery: Mixon played at least half the snaps in 13 games last season, averaging 17.7 fantasy points per game in those starts. Now with Perine in Denver, Mixon should have an even larger role in the Bengals' high-powered offense. He is a fantastic value going several rounds behind other similar talents.
Daniel Harms: The Bengals are aligning their scheme with Mixon's strengths, especially with the addition of a new gap scheme left tackle. Without Perine and having had his best receiving season, Mixon stands to see a substantial amount of volume in 2023.
Sam Wagman: It seems unlikely that the Bengals will trade or cut Mixon, which is great for his fantasy value. He achieved a career-high target share last year, and with Perine gone, his main competitor for targets has disappeared. Expect Mixon to maintain a significant role in one of the NFL's best offenses.
Ryan Weisse: Mixon remains undervalued despite a strong role in the Bengals' backfield. With just 14 games last year, he finished as a top-10 running back and also had his best year as a receiver. If he maintains this performance and sees an increase in touchdowns, he could potentially be a top-five fantasy back in 2023.
Jeff Bell: Despite a dip to RB13 in 2022, Mixon has demonstrated his potential with an overall RB3 finish in the past. The likelihood of him staying with the Bengals and being the primary option in the backfield offers great value at his current ADP and the potential for a top-five finish.
Players Receiving 5 Votes
Cam Akers, Los Angeles Rams
Jason Wood: At his current draft position, Akers offers excellent value. Normally, running backs at his average draft position (ADP) deliver around 1,000 scrimmage yards and seven touchdowns, equating to roughly 175 fantasy points (in half PPR). Importantly, Akers displayed a stunning rate of 1,630 yards and 16 touchdowns late last season after regaining his starting position following an uncertain start. Although it's risky to project a player's peak performance across an entire year, Akers' ADP suggests he'll fall short of that pace by over 60%. Given the team's makeup, this discount seems excessive.
Dave Kluge: Similar to Najee Harris, Akers' full-season performance needs some context regarding injuries. He began the season just over a year out from an Achilles tear and seemed off his game. Through Week 9, he averaged just 9.8 carries and 30.4 rushing yards per game, never playing more than 50% of the offensive snaps in any game. After Week 10, he played more than 70% of the team's snaps in all but one game, averaging 17.3 carries and 85.3 rushing yards per game. A fit Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp should jump-start the offense in 2023, and as Sean McVay’s main back, Akers could benefit hugely.
Gary Davenport: Understandably, excitement about the Rams offense this year mostly revolves around Cooper Kupp. While Akers’ overall RB34 finish in PPR points last year was uninspiring, it's noteworthy that he was recovering from a torn Achilles, and he significantly improved towards the end of the season, exceeding 100 rushing yards in the team’s last three games. As the clear lead back, Akers makes a solid target for fantasy managers who focus on WR early.
Matt Waldman: I came away impressed with Akers after studying the film of his stretch run with an injured and subpar supporting cast. He's confident on his rehabilitated foot and ankle and has become more efficient as a decision-maker. Consequently, Akers is showcasing patience, power, and the ability to finish runs with the strength he frequently demonstrated at FSU. The Rams lack a robust distribution of offensive talent and will likely heavily rely on Cooper Kupp and Tyler Higbee in the passing game. They should also depend on Akers, a strong receiving option. If the Rams lean on Akers, he could finish in the top five for fantasy RBs. If they don't, watch rookie Zach Evans.
Drew Davenport: It's understandable to worry about Akers because players often struggle when returning from Achilles injuries. However, this concern may be overly affecting fantasy drafters. The Rams and Akers had a somewhat peculiar 2022 season due to an unusual in-season fallout that kept him sidelined for a while. But when he came back, he achieved PPR RB4 numbers, averaging over 18 points per game in his final five full-time games. This included almost 17 carries per game and crucial goal-line work. The Rams did little to address a weak running back depth chart, and with the return of Cooper Kupp and Matthew Stafford, the offensive firepower and the workhorse role make Akers a fantastic buy right now.
David Montgomery, Detroit Lions
Jason Wood: Montgomery's current average draft position (ADP) seems mistakenly undervalued across all positions, a misstep likely to be rectified during training camp and preseason. Despite the Lions' decision to use a high draft pick on Jahmyr Gibbs, they've also parted ways with both D'Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. Williams, who ended last year as RB13 with a remarkable 17 rushing touchdowns, had minimal involvement in the passing game. Conversely, Montgomery arrives in Detroit from Chicago with an outstanding pedigree, a considerable guaranteed contract, and a more varied skill set. Even when facing congested defensive lines, Montgomery remained a dynamic player for the Bears. With the Lions' balanced offensive strategy, Montgomery stands ready for more opportunities to display his prowess. Gibbs' potential shouldn't eclipse Montgomery's expected significant fantasy contribution.
Matt Waldman: The Lions managed a successful pairing of D'Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams last season. However, Detroit traded Swift due to his lack of versatility which goes against popular perception. Swift's poor decision-making between the tackles limited his usability, making the Lions' gameplay predictable to opponents. Although Williams is a versatile back with power, he lacks the top speed that teams desire in a feature back. This year, the Lions have improved their roster with Jahmyr Gibbs and arguably made a parallel move from Williams to Montgomery. Despite Gibbs being superior to Swift between the tackles, thus enabling Detroit to be less predictable, I expect Montgomery to inherit Williams' role, including red-zone opportunities behind a robust offensive line. Similar to Williams, Montgomery excels as a receiver and is likely to receive a larger share of targets than most anticipate.
Daniel Harms: The Bears possessed one of the weakest offensive lines in the NFL last season, paired with a quarterback that recorded 160 rushing attempts. Now, Montgomery joins a top-five offensive line and a quarterback, Jared Goff, who only rushed 29 times in 2022. Although Montgomery had a career-low in touchdowns, we saw how Jamaal Williams accumulated scores last season. The Lions signed Montgomery with the intent of incorporating him substantially into the offense. He’s a superior pass catcher and a more efficient runner than Williams. Expect Montgomery to recover his form in Detroit and surpass his RB27 ADP on MFL.
Drew Davenport: Last year, the Lions showcased successful rushing behind a sturdy offensive line, then decided to replace their top two running backs with a rookie and Montgomery. This switch presents a massive upgrade for Montgomery's prospects, yet his draft stock seems to be sliding. Jahmyr Gibbs will undoubtedly receive substantial touches given Detroit's investment in him, but there are plenty of opportunities available and a crucial goal-line role is up for grabs. Montgomery has the talent to seize those scoring opportunities, carve out a substantial share of the backfield, and produce comparable—if not better—numbers than his tenure with Chicago. His current ADP seems to reflect his floor, leaving room for significant upside on a robust offense.
Ryan Weisse: Montgomery's move to Detroit to replace Jamaal Williams has marked him as an underrated player. Last season, Detroit running backs accounted for 59 carries inside the 10-yard line, which significantly contributed to Williams' 17-touchdown season. This number was also 39 more carries than the Bears' running backs had last year. Although expecting Montgomery to duplicate Williams' numbers is improbable, a boost from his five touchdowns in 2022 is a reasonable expectation. Currently ranked outside the top 20, Montgomery is set to outperform predictions in 2023.
Player Receiving 4 Votes
Antonio Gibson, Washington Commanders
Sigmund Bloom: Gibson has received considerable praise from head coach Ron Rivera this spring, who emphasized Gibson's "tremendous growth" and his wide receiver background. Rivera voiced the team's excitement about Gibson's potential, and Gibson himself expressed enthusiasm about the offensive strategy of new coordinator Eric Bieniemy, not just for his own role but for the team. According to Rivera, Gibson fits perfectly into Bieniemy's offensive plans, which bodes well for the dynamic player who may have been miscast as an early-down running back. If Gibson becomes a primary receiving option with more space to operate, he could significantly exceed his ADP in PPR leagues.
Christian Williams: Eric Bieniemy has a fondness for receiving backs, and Antonio Gibson is undoubtedly the best among the Commanders' ranks. Despite Gibson's inefficiency in 2022, the revitalized offense under new quarterback Sam Howell (or Jacoby Brissett) and coordinator Bieniemy is poised to rectify that. Gibson's 58 targets in 2022 placed him 13th in the NFL. Who was ahead of him? Jerick McKinnon, the Chiefs' primary passing-down back under Bieniemy's direction. Gibson might share carries with Brian Robinson, but it's plausible he'll see a target share of more than 10%. That workload alone makes him a steal at RB38.
Kevin Coleman: Prior to 2022, Gibson posted back-to-back RB12 finishes, averaging over 1,100 yards and ten touchdowns in both seasons. Unfortunately, underutilization by the coaching staff saw his role gradually diminish when Brian Robinson Jr returned. Despite this, Gibson exhibited moments of brilliance, producing two top-15 finishes last year. He remains one of the best PPR options at his current ADP. With Sam Howell—famed for his check-downs to Javonte Williams and Michael Carter in college—potentially starting at quarterback, Gibson could become that safety net. Coupled with the addition of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, who skillfully utilizes backs with elite receiving upside (see Jerick Mckinnon), Gibson could significantly outperform his current ADP.
Jeff Bell: Over the final ten games of 2022 for Kansas City, Jerick McKinnon averaged 5.4 targets per game—a full-season rate of 92. That number rose to 5.8 over the last five games, a period during which McKinnon's efficiency pushed him to RB2 overall. Now, with McKinnon's former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy in Washington and a young quarterback at the helm, Gibson should emerge as a primary receiving option. At RB38, any risk of remaining in Ron Rivera's doghouse seems mitigated.
Players Receiving 3 Votes
Damien Harris, Buffalo Bills
Dave Kluge: Devin Singletary received a minimum of 150 carries in each of his four years with Buffalo, a number that Harris reached only once during his four years in New England. Assuming that Harris steps into Singletary’s role, he's set to handle more work within a significantly better offense. Just two years ago, Harris was graded as PFF’s top running back while leading the league in touchdowns. He’s larger, stronger, faster, and quicker than Singletary. James Cook showed promise as a rookie and might be primed for a larger role. However, if Harris secures early-down and goal-line work, he will effortlessly outperform his ADP.
Jeff Haseley: James Cook is a popular pick with a higher ADP, but Damien Harris is the dependable back capable of handling first and second down, as well as goal-line carries. Harris could potentially register 200 carries and 10 touchdowns within the Bills' offense. He's just two years removed from a season where he racked up 15 touchdowns despite sharing the backfield. Harris could emerge as a significant fantasy value this season.
Sam Wagman: It's tempting to speculate that Harris will seamlessly step into the opportunity share left by Devin Singletary, especially given his modest contract (just over $1 million), but Harris often flies under the radar. Here's another perspective: The Bills ranked among the top ten red zone scoring percentage teams in 2022, and Singletary stands only 5'8 and 200 lbs. Granted, Josh Allen will inevitably seize some red zone carries, but consider adding a 225 lb powerhouse like Harris to the mix. The Bills' scoring rate could soar into the top 5, and Harris, despite fewer carries outside the red zone, could reap substantial benefits.
Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Christian Williams: The Buccaneers might not field an impressive offense in 2023, but Rachaad White's volume, and thus, his fantasy performance, should remain largely unaffected. Given White's proficiency as a pass-catcher in 2022, he's poised to become the favored passing-down back. In a team led by Baker Mayfield (or Kyle Trask), this is noteworthy. Mayfield frequently checked the ball down in 2022, rapidly cycling through reads and opting for Cam Akers as his check down. Last year, while sharing responsibilities with Leonard Fournette, White claimed 8% of Tampa Bay's targets. With Fournette gone, a top-12 finish for White isn't unthinkable. With an ADP of RB24, he's one of the most undervalued running backs in drafts.
Kevin Coleman: While White wasn't the most efficient running back in the NFL last season, a considerable portion of that inefficiency can be attributed to their weak offensive line. With the Buccaneers moving on from Leonard Fournette and failing to secure a significant replacement in the NFL Draft, White is set for RB1 volume. He's likely to shoulder the most receiving work in that backfield, and historically, quarterback Baker Mayfield has maintained a running back target rate of around 20% in his career. It's entirely plausible that White finishes 3rd in team targets, trailing Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. He may not be the exciting pick in fantasy drafts this season, but with assured volume and targets, and little competition, he's a robust addition in any format.
Jeff Bell: Despite being ranked RB24, with looming concerns over the Buccaneers' offensive capability, it's hard not to envision White significantly outperforming his ADP. His substantial involvement in the passing game should yield a baseline production akin to Cordarelle Patterson's versatile 2021 season, which led him to an overall RB12 finish. White's rookie season saw him quietly garnering 50 receptions in a part-time role, placing him among an elite group including Saquon Barkley, Najee Harris, and Miles Sanders, who achieved the same in the past five years. White will be a primary option in an offense that desperately needs his contribution.
The Other 20
There was consensus on the running backs above being undervalued. But another 20 runners received attention too. Here they are.
Players Receiving 2 Votes
James Conner, Arizona Cardinals
Chad Parsons: Conner has landed as RB8 and RB9 in aPPG over the previous two seasons. Additionally, Arizona possesses one of the NFL's weakest backup running back rosters. Although the Cardinals may struggle this season (with or without Kyler Murray), Conner's workhorse status remains unquestionable. The most underrated RB1 producers in fantasy typically fall within the RB20 to RB30 cost range and are often overlooked as clear NFL starters. For 2023, Conner fulfills both criteria.
Drew Davenport: The issues with Conner are apparent and provide an easy justification for overlooking him this year. The Cardinals' offense is likely to be average at best, potentially even poor, and Kyler Murray may begin the season on the PUP list or play below his full capacity for a substantial part of the season. However, Arizona has shown that they're willing to entrust the ball to Conner when he's on the field. Even in games without Murray last year, Conner remained a high-end fantasy asset, recording 19.6 PPR points per game when the starting quarterback was sidelined. So what's the concern? Despite tying for the 5th-fewest touchdowns in the league, Conner was the PPR RB4 in the second half of the fantasy season, averaging 20.1 touches per game. While there is a new coaching staff in place, they did little to strengthen their running back lineup, and Conner is still expected to get a significant volume. He's a strong value at his current ADP.
Breece Hall, New York Jets
Ben Cummins: Breece Hall, prior to his injury, recorded an average of 15.1 half-point PPR fantasy points per game as a rookie, securing him the RB8 slot in the seven games he played. He excelled in various ProFootballFocus metrics in 2022, achieving first in elusive rating, first in yards after contact per attempt (4.13), third in explosive run rate (19%), and second in yards per route run (2.00) among eligible running backs. What do these stats signify? Hall was a top running back in the league, adept at evading and breaking tackles, gaining extra yards, making substantial run plays, and being an efficient route runner and pass catcher immediately upon entering the NFL. His recovery from a torn ACL last season is progressing well, inspiring confidence in drafting him above ADP.
Dave Kluge: Hall is on the mend from an ACL tear, a fact that's reflected in his draft cost as a third-round pick. However, the injury occurred early in the season, and all signs point to him returning to the field by Week 1. He might start slowly, but if he's back to 100% by midseason, he has the potential to be a game-changer this year. Our glimpse of a healthy Hall last year was brief, but he looked to be one of the most dominant backs in the league before his Week 7 injury. As a threat between the tackles, in open space, and in the passing game, Hall is a versatile three-down back poised for a significant workload once ready. If Aaron Rodgers elevates the offense and Hall is healthy, he’s a dark horse to finish as this year’s RB1.
Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers
Dave Kluge: After a stellar rookie year, Harris dropped to RB14 in 2022 PPR scoring. However, this ranking requires important context. He was dealing with a foot injury and ran with a plate in his shoe. His early-season performance does not accurately reflect his overall talent. From Week 10 onward, Harris averaged 18.2 carries, 2.8 targets, 87.8 scrimmage yards, and 0.8 touchdowns per game. His per-game 15.1 points would have placed him in the top ten over the entire season. Head coach Mike Tomlin prefers having a go-to back, and Harris has demonstrated his ability to deliver in this role.
Andy Hicks: Najee Harris had a less-than-stellar second season, but it's crucial to recall that he started the year with a persistent foot issue. His yardage and receptions took a noticeable hit. However, he proved his durability by playing through his injury and delivering what was expected in the latter half of the season with six touchdowns and significantly increased usage. His potential to produce elite numbers is evident, and he ranks high based on potential alone.
Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints
Ben Cummins: Alvin Kamara is likely to face suspension for off-field misconduct, and while Jamaal Williams is a competent player, his success last year was largely due to a stellar Lions offense. Kendre Miller is poised to seize the majority of this backfield early in the season. His game mirrors elements of Arian Foster's and Aaron Jones's styles. Miller has impressive speed and burst for a 215-pound player and poses a constant threat for a big play. He has shown proficiency as a pass-catcher and holds the potential to be an NFL workhorse. Considering the cost, Miller could well be the fantasy MVP of the 2023 season.
Sam Wagman: The Saints' backfield situation is presently chaotic. With Alvin Kamara potentially facing a long suspension due to legal issues and Jamaal Williams being signed on a multi-year deal just months before Miller's draft, it's a complicated picture. Despite this, I favor Miller over Williams. Firstly, Miller received the coveted Day 2 draft capital. Moreover, despite Williams' impressive stats last year, this was the first time in his career he'd exceeded 160 carries. Could he repeat it? Perhaps the Saints' plan is to gradually introduce Miller before unleashing him later in the season. Furthermore, Miller's size and explosive running style make him a desirable three-down back.
Players Receiving 1 Vote
Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns
Andy Hicks: Chubb has consistently been one of the premier backs in the league. His only limitations have been sharing time with Kareem Hunt and the Browns' underuse of pass plays to running backs. With Chubb rushing for over 1500 yards and notching a dozen touchdowns last season, there's still room for improvement. Expect an increased workload and with teams forced to respect the passing game, Chubb will finally emerge as a fantasy powerhouse.
James Cook, Buffalo Bills
Dan Hindery: Cook amassed 106.7 fantasy points last season in just 269 snaps. With Devin Singletary (who played 709 snaps last season) gone, Damien Harris is likely to absorb some of Singletary's snaps. However, I expect Cook to lead this backfield and double his playing time from last season. If Cook plays more than 600 snaps in his second season while maintaining his efficiency, he will post strong RB2 numbers. Cook is explosive (averaging 5.7 YPC as a rookie) and a formidable receiving threat out of the backfield. With Josh Allen aiming to rely less on his legs, Cook could put up substantial numbers as a pass catcher.
Ezekiel Elliott, Free Agent
Jason Wood: Ezekiel Elliott, released for salary cap reasons this offseason, remains unsigned. However, rumors hint at a possible return to Dallas. If he does rejoin the Cowboys, fantasy managers can expect at least a low-end RB2 performance. He finished last year as RB23 and should maintain a similar role or possibly take on increased responsibilities due to Mike McCarthy's commitment to a more balanced run-pass ratio. If Elliott signs with another team, his value could rise to low-end RB1, depending on the team. Any team acquiring him would likely utilize him as their primary goal-line option. Even with moderate yardage totals, achieving ten or more rushing touchdowns could justify his draft-day cost.
Travis Etienne Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars
Matt Montgomery: Why are we doubting Travis Etienne's potential for improvement this year? After battling back from a severe rookie-year injury, he clawed his way to just outside the top 15 at his position in a league increasingly favoring running back committees. His teammate from last year's committee wasn't retained, and while the team did draft a third-round running back, the backfield remains Etienne's domain. His first full season yielded over 1100 rushing yards, 35 receptions, and over 300 receiving yards. As the offense continues to improve, there's no reason to believe Etienne won't build on these numbers in the coming years.
Khalil Herbert, Chicago Bears
Matt Waldman: Herbert shares many stylistic similarities with Dalvin Cook, and the difference in athletic talent is marginal. When given at least 15 touches per game during his first two years in Chicago, Herbert averaged 20.7 touches, 108 scrimmage yards, and 0.57 touchdowns. Despite David Montgomery being the lead back in Chicago, Herbert seized the limited opportunities he was given. Though D'Onta Foreman is a capable runner, he doesn't directly replace Montgomery. Rookie Roschon Johnson shows promise, but he may be a year away from making a significant impact without an injury to Herbert or Foreman. Expect Herbert to deliver his first season as a full-time fantasy starter with an RB2 floor and top-15 potential, especially if enhancements to the receiver corps and offensive line facilitate Justin Field's development.
Aaron Jones, Green Bay Packers
Drew Davenport: Despite finishing as PPR RB8 in 2022, RB9 in 2021, and RB5 in 2020, Jones' current ADP rests at RB16, a perplexing valuation given Green Bay's evolving situation. It seems logical that head coach Matt LaFleur will leverage both A.J. Dillon and Jones to alleviate pressure from first-year starter Jordan Love. Jones' involvement in the passing game should continue, providing him another opportunity to exceed 275 touches. His career-high rushing yards in 2022, paired with a low two rushing touchdowns, could be influencing perceptions. However, even if Dillon takes all goal-line touches, Jones' projected volume for this year still suggests he's undervalued.
Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints
Chad Parsons: The only factor potentially preventing Kamara from significantly outperforming his ADP is a potential suspension, which seems more likely to impact 2024 than 2023. Despite ranking in the top 15 in points-per-game among running backs every season of his career, Kamara's off-season cost is nowhere near RB15. Like Mike Evans in the wide receiver position, Kamara's value seems to be slipping. Death, taxes, and a productive Alvin Kamara – that's a bet worth making.
Elijah Mitchell, San Francisco 49ers
Sam Wagman: How does Mitchell make this list when there's virtually no chance of him becoming a starter unless Christian McCaffrey is injured? Efficiency. Despite McCaffrey dominating touches, Mitchell had a tangible role. When both were on the field, Mitchell's red zone rushing share was higher because McCaffrey was primarily utilized as a receiver in this area. Furthermore, the 49ers are keen on preserving McCaffrey's health by diversifying the RB room, giving Mitchell ample opportunities. If he can stay healthy, Mitchell is well-positioned to outperform his ADP this season.
Rashaad Penny, Philadelphia Eagles
Jeff Haseley: The departure of Miles Sanders to Carolina paves the way for a new running back in Philadelphia. The Eagles have brought in Rashaad Penny and traded for D'Andre Swift, providing both with ample playing time and scoring opportunities. Swift's forte lies in receiving, a role he's likely to continue in Philadelphia. If that's the case, expect Penny to shoulder more early-down and goal-line carries. Should he remain injury-free and capitalize on his opportunities, particularly early in the season, Penny could be a consistent fantasy starter.
Samaje Perine, Denver Broncos
Ben Cummins: Broncos' head coach Sean Payton's off-season maneuvers signal his intention to execute a balanced offense, favoring a strong running game. While Samaje Perine isn't an elite talent, he's a model of reliability and will share duties with Javonte Williams throughout the season. Williams' recovery from a significant multi-ligament tear last season is nothing short of remarkable. Still, it's crucial to bear in mind his injury history. Perine, a dual-threat player, stands to gain as Payton once again enhances the fantasy value of his running backs.
Brian Robinson, Washington Commanders
Andy Hicks: Despite a shocking shooting incident disrupting his rookie season, Brian Robinson appeared poised to secure Washington's starting job during the preseason. Fortunately, he recovered rapidly, missing only the first four games. His 205 carries over the final 12 games, even with Antonio Gibson's presence, suggest Robinson could surpass 300 carries this year. His underrated status stems from a lack of touchdowns. With a draft slot that undersells his floor, Robinson presents a safe bet to outperform expectations. A few more touchdowns could make him a league-winning pick.
Miles Sanders, Carolina Panthers
Jeff Haseley: In the offseason, the Panthers acquired Miles Sanders to serve as their primary running back for the 2023 season and beyond. Post-trade of Christian McCaffrey in Week 7 last year, the Panthers led the NFL in rushing yards from running backs. With the entire offensive line returning in 2023 and an anticipated boost from having Bryce Young at quarterback, Sanders is set to be a steady component of a potent running game.
Devin Singletary, Houston Texans
Jason Wood: Although Devin Singletary never hit elite fantasy heights during his Buffalo tenure, he consistently delivered, averaging 1,000 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns over four seasons. His highest finish was RB19 in 2021. Singletary's move to the Texans might not seem like a fantasy windfall, considering Dameon Pierce's place atop the depth chart, but remember, Pierce is returning from a season-ending injury. Head Coach DeMeco Ryans and Offensive Coordinator Bobby Slowik, with their San Francisco background, value a robust and steady ground game. To achieve their objectives, the Texans will need both Pierce and Singletary. While Singletary may not rank as a top-25 pick, he should be drafted earlier than his current ADP suggests. He's just one Pierce injury away from becoming a three-down back in a proven blocking scheme.
Rhamondre Stevenson, New England Patriots
Ben Cummins: Rhamondre Stevenson ranks among the NFL's top running backs. His exceptional agility and superior contact balance make tackling him a challenge, and his pass-catching skills are impressive. With Damien Harris's departure, Stevenson will be the Patriots' dual-threat powerhouse. The addition of Bill O’Brien as a competent offensive coordinator this season increases Stevenson's touchdown prospects. Despite being set for a stellar season, Stevenson can still be secured in the third round, according to ADP.
Ken Walker III, Seattle Seahawks
Kevin Coleman: While many managers may avoid second-year Michigan State product Ken Walker III due to the inclusion of rookie running back Zach Charbonnet, this makes Walker an appealing value. His ADP fell from the first to the fifth round, and he currently ranks as RB16. Such a low ranking is unwarranted for a player who consistently landed in the top-8 fantasy backs from weeks 7-17 in 2022, averaging over 16 fantasy points per game. I don't believe Charbonnet significantly outperforms Walker as a pass-catcher, and they should have roughly equal target shares. With the Seahawks likely leaning more on the run this year, both runners hold value, but Walker, the more talented back, gets my vote.
Javonte Williams, Denver Broncos
Christian Williams: Fantasy managers are understandably cautious about Williams' availability after his 2022 ACL injury, but this makes him an outstanding value at RB28. The arrival of Sean Payton is key, as his propensity for involving running backs as pass catchers was a trademark of his New Orleans offense. Although Alvin Kamara's superb receiving skills may have influenced this, Williams, too, has shown promise as a receiver. This role will elevate Williams' floor, and even with a potentially slow start to the season, achieving 200 rushing attempts is feasible. Once he's on the field, consistent top-20 performances could make him an excellent choice at RB28.
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Rachel Tootsiepop
