Table of Contents
Top Running Backs to Draft in Fantasy Football 2024
1. Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers)
Overview: Christian McCaffrey remains one of the top running backs in fantasy football due to his dual-threat ability, combining exceptional rushing skills with impressive receiving capabilities.
Key Factors:
- Usage: McCaffrey is a central figure in the 49ers’ offense, receiving a high volume of touches both on the ground and through the air.
- Consistency: Known for his ability to deliver consistent high performances and accumulate points across multiple categories.
Draft Consideration: Draft McCaffrey in the early first round for a reliable and high-scoring RB1.
2. Jonathan Taylor (Indianapolis Colts)
Overview: Jonathan Taylor is another elite running back who has consistently delivered strong performances. His physical style of running and ability to break through defenses make him a valuable asset.
Key Factors:
- Workload: Taylor is the primary back for the Colts, often getting the bulk of carries and goal-line touches.
- Health and Offensive Line: As long as Taylor stays healthy and the Colts’ offensive line remains effective, he should continue to be a top fantasy performer.
Draft Consideration: Taylor is a solid choice for the top of the second round, especially if you need a reliable RB2 or a high-end RB1.
3. Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers)
Overview: Austin Ekeler’s value in fantasy football comes from his exceptional pass-catching ability combined with solid rushing stats. He’s a versatile player who can score points in various ways.
Key Factors:
- Receiving Skills: Ekeler is heavily involved in the Chargers’ passing game, making him a high-value asset in PPR (points per reception) formats.
- Touchdowns: He is also a key contributor in the red zone, which boosts his touchdown potential.
Draft Consideration: Ekeler is a strong pick in the late first round or early second round, particularly in PPR leagues.
4. Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans)
Overview: Derrick Henry is renowned for his power and endurance, making him a dominant force in the running game. He consistently ranks among the league leaders in rushing yards and touchdowns.
Key Factors:
- Volume: Henry receives a significant number of carries each game, often leading the league in touches.
- Red Zone Usage: His size and power make him a frequent candidate for goal-line carries.
Draft Consideration: Henry is a top-tier pick in the first round if you’re looking for a high-volume, touchdown-scoring running back.
5. Saquon Barkley (New York Giants)
Overview: Saquon Barkley has shown he can be a game-changer when healthy. His explosive athleticism and ability to contribute in both the rushing and receiving games make him a valuable fantasy asset.
Key Factors:
- Health: Barkley’s performance can be highly variable based on his health. When fit, he’s a top-tier RB.
- Dual-Threat Capability: His involvement in the passing game adds to his fantasy value, especially in PPR formats.
Draft Consideration: Barkley is a strong candidate in the late first round or early second round, contingent on his health and the Giants’ offensive line performance.
6. Nick Chubb (Cleveland Browns)
Overview: Nick Chubb is known for his powerful running style and consistent production. He excels in between-the-tackles runs and is a reliable option for steady points.
Key Factors:
- Rushing Ability: Chubb is one of the best pure runners in the league, often accumulating large yardage totals.
- Consistency: He is a steady performer who consistently contributes points week in and week out.
Draft Consideration: Chubb is a strong pick in the early to mid-second round, offering a high floor and reliable production.
7. Javonte Williams (Denver Broncos)
Overview: Javonte Williams is an emerging talent with a high ceiling. His combination of power and agility makes him a promising option for fantasy managers.
Key Factors:
- Recovery and Opportunity: Coming off a significant injury, Williams’ value will depend on his recovery and the Broncos’ plans for his usage.
- Upside: If he returns to form, Williams has the potential to be a high-value fantasy asset.
Draft Consideration: Williams is a high-upside pick in the mid-to-late rounds, with significant potential if he regains his pre-injury form.
8. Joe Mixon (Cincinnati Bengals)
Overview: Joe Mixon is a well-rounded back who contributes in both the running and passing games. His involvement in the Bengals’ offense and goal-line carries make him a valuable fantasy option.
Key Factors:
- Usage: Mixon gets a substantial number of touches and plays a key role in both rushing and receiving.
- Offensive Line Improvements: The effectiveness of Mixon’s performance can be influenced by the Bengals’ offensive line play.
Draft Consideration: Mixon is a solid pick in the mid-to-late second round, offering a balanced contribution to both rushing and receiving.
Conclusion
Selecting the right running backs for your fantasy football team in 2024 involves considering both their performance potential and their role in their respective offenses. Top choices like Christian McCaffrey, Jonathan Taylor, and Austin Ekeler offer high scoring potential and reliability. Meanwhile, emerging talents and proven performers like Javonte Williams and Joe Mixon provide additional value based on their usage and upside. By carefully evaluating these options and considering league formats, you can build a strong running back corps to lead your team to success.
This comprehensive guide highlights the top running backs to target in your fantasy football drafts for 2024, considering their potential impact and value based on recent performances and projections. If you have specific league settings or further details to consider, let me know!
