I’m always a fan of the Anchor RB/Hero RB builds, but a nice Zero RB approach gets the juices flowing more than anything. The most important element of these game plans is which running backs you take in the middle to late rounds. Are you playing it safe to ensure some production? Trying to outkick the coverage with upside? Here are a few fantasy football running backs to take a look at who are currently being undervalued, according to average draft position (ADP), in half-PPR formats.
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Undervalued Running Backs
Javonte Williams (RB – DEN): 85 Overall ADP (RB28) & Jaleel McLaughlin (RB – DEN): 157 Overall ADP (RB49)
“Javonte Williams is on the roster bubble,” they said. As those rumors picked up, Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime gained steam. I’m a fan of Estime, but his time isn’t here yet, and this is looking more like a two-man backfield with a strong likelihood that Samaje Perine gets cut. In the first week of the preseason, Williams handled the first 10 offensive snaps while recording four carries and two targets, good for a 60% share of the offense. Perine worked in on third downs and McLaughlin eventually entered the frame. In the second game, however, McLaughlin was the first one rotating in on third downs. I envision McLaughlin’s workload picking up this season as he scoops up Perine’s work, while Williams continues to operate as the lead back, similar to last season. If that’s the case, both backs can return value at their ADPs.
Sean Payton’s offenses have ranked top-five in running back targets every season from 2014-2021, and the Broncos finished second in that category last season. We know Bo Nix is an efficient underneath passer who likes to target running backs, so there should be plenty of targets to go around. We’re also two years removed from Williams’ horrific ACL/LCL injury, which is historically when running backs have reached their full recovery. Let’s not forget how productive the former Tar Heel was in his rookie season while sharing the backfield with Melvin Gordon. Williams was second in the league, only to Jonathan Taylor, in missed tackles forced after a rush with 63. His yards after contact have always been supreme with his contact balance, but he looks quicker this season and has reportedly cut his weight to be more agile.
So long as Perine is a non-factor and Estime remains on the shelf, Williams and McLaughlin can be a force together.
Tyjae Spears (RB – TEN): Overall 99 ADP (RB35)
Another running back listed among my breakout players, Tyjae Spears is a dynamic pass-catcher who should see more work on the ground this season. You can read more about my bullish outlook on Spears here.
Rico Dowdle (RB – DAL): 135 Overall ADP (RB42)
This is a bet against Ezekiel Elliott, who is going as the RB36/109 overall, as much as anything, but Rico Dowdle has some explosiveness to his game. In comparison to Elliott, who appears to be running in sand, Dowdle looks like he’s shot out of a cannon. Last season, Dowdle finished ninth among running backs in yards created per touch and was generally effective when given the opportunity.
The Cowboys’ coaching staff has spoken highly of Dowdle all offseason and into the preseason, with the latest praise coming from offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer.
In order:
Rico Dowdle – “I think Rico Dowdle’s having a hell of a camp” (very positive nonverbal communication)
Ezekiel Elliott – “Zeke’s another one of those guys where we’re going to be smart, like Brandin [Cooks], he doesn’t need every rep”
Malik Davis – “hell of a camp” https://t.co/j9mtCQVNzQ
— Adam Koffler (@AdamKoffler) August 14, 2024
I take it as a positive for Dowdle that the team brought in Elliott, knowing where he’s at in his career, and nobody else at the running back position, aside from Royce Freeman. Dallas should have a prolific offense once again. Somebody in this backfield will reap the benefits.
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