Last year, only seven running backs rushed for more than 1,000 yards. That’s down from the 13 who accomplished that goal in 2014, and the first time since 1991 that fewer than 10 backs have reached the mark in a season. We have to accept that the number of solo backs in the NFL is dwindling. Now much of the productivity is divided among several members of a committee.
Therefore, we need to get creative.
When assessing breakout potential at the position, I considered players who had the possibility of being the solo back, but I also weighted the players with exceptional pass-catching capabilities. When you’re aiming for running backs in the mid-rounds, picking a guys with versatility is key.
Here are five running backs currently with an average draft position outside the top 24 at the position according to FantasyFootballCalculator, but with the potential to be a fantasy starter.
Jay Ajayi, Miami Dolphins (current ADP: 58, No. 25 RB)
Even though the Dolphins lost Lamar Miller to Houston during free agency, all signs pointed to Jay Ajayi losing the starting role. First, Miami tried to bring Denver’s C.J. Anderson into town, but the Broncos matched the offer sheet. After losing out on Anderson, the Dolphins reportedly wanted to take Ohio State RB Ezekiel Elliott in the NFL Draft, but the Dallas Cowboys grabbed Elliott with the fourth slot.
DOMINATE FANTASY FOOTBALL & BETTING WITH AI-POWERED DATA & TOOLS TRUSTED BY ALL 32
Unlimited Fantasy League Sync
Fantasy Start/Sit Line-Up Optimizer & Waiver Wire
WR-CB & OL-DL Matchups, PFF Player Grades, & Premium Stats 2.0 Tools
Nathan Jahnkes Rankings - #1 Most Accurate Last 70 Weeks
PFF Best Bets, Player Props, & Power Ranking Tools
NFL Mock Draft Sim with Trades & Draft Grades
Already have a subscription? Log In
© 2024 PFF - all rights reserved.