Second-year running backs like Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs have vaulted to first-round picks in 2024, and De’Von Achane is the RB12 in FantasyPros’ expert consensus rankings (ECR). But let’s look at some other running backs that could make an impact in Year 2 of their career.
- 2024 Fantasy Football Draft Kit
- 2024 Dynasty Fantasy Football Draft Kit
- 2024 Best Ball Fantasy Football Draft Kit
- Free Fantasy Football Mock Draft Simulator
Second-Year Running Backs: Top Draft Targets
Here’s a look at eight second-year running backs to target in fantasy football leagues, broken into different categories based on their 2024 outlook.
Players Who Can Challenge for Starting Roles
Tony Pollard‘s arrival crushed Tyjae Spears’ fantasy value but don’t underestimate his potential. This backfield will likely operate as a 1A/1B committee with the best man earning the stronger workload. Spears thrived through the air last season with 52 receptions on 70 targets for 385 yards. He was graded as a top-10 back in Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) elusive rating. Pollard averaged only 13.1 fantasy points per game, exceeded 15 fantasy points just twice in the entire season and struggled significantly at the goal line. If Pollard and Spears perform similarly to 2023, Spears should outshine Pollard and earn RB1 status.
The Cincinnati backfield could be one of the most fascinating backfields of 2024. Joe Mixon produced top-10 fantasy seasons in total points for the past three years with over 3,000 total yards and 29 rushing touchdowns, plus strong receiving volume. Zack Moss appears to be in line as the starter but that isn’t a guarantee. The Bengals increased Brown’s involvement at the end of last season and their confidence in Brown played a significant role in the decision to move on from Mixon. Brown also has the edge on third downs and receiving work, the most critical part of the backfield. Brown could thrive in a split backfield with receiving upside and ascend to RB1 status.
The road to glory for undrafted free agents is a very lonely journey. But Jaleel McLaughlin can push for an expanded role. Javonte Williams is the Broncos’ starting back but Williams saw a dip in snaps during the final four games of the season, seeing between 39-48% of the snaps. In contrast, McLaughlin saw a slight uptick with as many as 28% of snaps. McLaughlin had just 76 carries but produced 410 rushing yards, averaging 5.39 yards per carry. He was the 15th-ranked running back in PFF’s rushing grades. Williams averaged 3.57 yards per carry. If he continues to struggle, McLaughlin could earn the title of RB1.
Could Eric Gray have a Kyren Williams-type trajectory in 2024 and be the fantasy back that very few saw coming? We shouldn’t jump to extremes because the Giants’ offense is very different from the Rams, but Gray is getting first-team carries in organized team activities (OTA) and the comp is appropriate. Like Williams, Gray is a second-year fifth-round draft pick, heading into the season as the backup. Devin Singletary is in line to handle the lead-back role, coming off a strong 2023 with the Texans. Gray lacked opportunity in 2023, playing behind Saquon Barkley, but will have the opportunity to compete in 2024.
Handcuffs With RB1 Upside
Fantasy managers got ahead of themselves with Zach Charbonnet’s hype in 2023. But, in 2024, we can look at Charbonnet with a fresh set of eyes and appreciate him for what he is — a backup RB who would step into a lead-back role if Kenneth Walker went down with an injury. It’s difficult for Charbonnet to offer standalone value because of the depth of Seattle’s receiving corps and Seattle’s limited rushing attempts. Under a new coaching regime, they could see an uptick in rush attempts but expect Walker to remain the top dog and Charbonnet to only offer handcuff value.
Technically speaking, Kendre Miller isn’t a handcuff. I’m admittedly reaching on this one. But, Jamaal Williams was uninspiring last season and Miller could challenge him for the backup role. Miller showed promise in Week 18 with 13 carries for 73 yards and one rushing touchdown. Training camp will be critical for Miller. He could have opportunities in a handcuff scenario.
I’ve mentioned Keaton Mitchell before as a player who could offer tremendous value at a discounted price in 2024. Coming off a torn ACL, Mitchell may begin the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Mitchell is currently RB57 in FantasyPros’ ECR and is trending towards a last-round draft pick. Mitchell popped in his rookie season, averaging 8.43 yards per carry in 2023. He had PFF’s second-highest running back grade. Mitchell is the perfect late-round flier who could offer stand-alone value as a change of pace back and has league-winning upside if Derrick Henry were to suffer an injury.
Honorable mention
Deuce Vaughn could potentially transition to receiver. He offers little value in the Dallas backfield but is intriguing if the Cowboys use him in the slot. The Cowboys have no true WR3 and Brandin Cooks struggled as the WR2 last season. Vaughn’s path to success could be through the air.
Subscribe: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeart | Castbox | Amazon Music | Podcast Addict | TuneIn
