Fantasy Running Backs to Own and Avoid

Must-Have Running Backs

As you gear up for your fantasy football drafts, it's essential to separate hype from value. A powerful way to do this is by comparing expert consensus rankings with average draft positions (ADP). This lets you spot players worth grabbing ahead of ADP — and those the experts are cooler on. With that in mind, here are several running backs we're prioritizing this season.

Bijan Robinson (ATL)
Robinson's rookie campaign was a roller coaster — misused early but dominant late. From Week 6 onward, he led all backs in fantasy points per game while increasing his touches, yardage, and receiving involvement. If Atlanta commits to him as the engine of their offense — and if Michael Penix Jr. jumpstarts the passing game — Bijan could claim the RB1 crown in 2025.

Ashton Jeanty (LV)
Jeanty enters the league with elite tackle-breaking skills and a complete three-down profile. His college metrics pop off the page, leading in yards after contact and elusive rating. In a Chip Kelly system that historically leans into the run and targets backs heavily, Jeanty's rookie season could mirror Saquon Barkley's explosive debut.

Christian McCaffrey (SF)
McCaffrey dealt with Achilles issues last year, but early reports suggest he's back to full health after undergoing regenerative treatment. In the limited action he saw, he maintained elite efficiency in yards per route and missed tackles forced. Betting on a CMC resurgence is a high-reward move worth making.

Kenneth Walker III (SEA)
Quietly finishing as RB12 in fantasy points per game, Walker is still one of the league's most dynamic runners. With his growing role in the passing game and league-leading missed tackle metrics, a healthy season could easily result in a top-5 finish.

RJ Harvey (DEN)
Harvey walks into a backfield ripe for the taking in Denver. His explosive college profile and Sean Payton's history of heavily targeting RBs in the passing game makes Harvey a top breakout candidate. He's an RB2 with RB1 upside.

Kaleb Johnson (PIT)
The Steelers moved on from Najee Harris and immediately drafted Johnson as their new feature back. He brings needed explosiveness and could inherit 250+ touches. Jaylen Warren may remain involved, but Johnson has the potential to anchor Pittsburgh's ground attack by season's end.

Tony Pollard (TEN)
Pollard handled a massive workload last year but was hamstrung by a weak Titans offense. If Cam Ward lifts the unit's efficiency, Pollard's top-tier usage could catapult him back into the RB1 mix.

Bhayshul Tuten (JAC)
Tuten enters a crowded backfield, but don't overlook his upside. Etienne underwhelmed, and Bigsby hasn't secured a role. With impressive college efficiency and strong receiving chops, Tuten could carve out a valuable role or even take over the backfield.

Jarquez Hunter (LAR)
Hunter offers explosion the Rams' current backs lack. With strong advanced metrics across three college seasons and the chance to surpass Kyren Williams or Blake Corum, he's a high-upside draft value.

Brashard Smith (KC)
Despite being a seventh-round pick, Smith could be this year's Pacheco. A former wideout with elite receiving ability and agility, he brings a skillset no other Chiefs back has. He's a deep sleeper with real pass-catching upside in Kansas City's offense.

Running Backs to Avoid

Every year, there are running backs who project well on paper but carry more risk than reward. These players might be overvalued due to volume, past production, or name recognition — but their outlooks in 2025 don't justify the draft cost.

Kyren Williams (LAR)
Williams racked up volume last year en route to an RB1 finish, but the efficiency was abysmal. Bottom-tier metrics in explosive runs, tackle-breaking, and contact balance suggest a fragile hold on fantasy relevance. Blake Corum or Jarquez Hunter could push for more work quickly.

Aaron Jones (MIN)
Jones saw heavy usage in 2024 and was serviceable, but the veteran is approaching the cliff. With Minnesota adding Jordan Mason and planning to lighten Jones' workload, he's likely capped as a low-end RB2 with declining efficiency.

D'Andre Swift (CHI)
Swift's volume remains secure, but his efficiency metrics are some of the worst among starting backs. He's barely breaking tackles or generating big plays. With a new offensive line and system, he might post another uninspiring RB2 season.

Tyrone Tracy Jr. (NYG)
Tracy flashed some playmaking but struggled with fumbles and consistency. The addition of Cam Skattebo introduces new competition, and the most realistic outcome is a frustrating committee situation in New York's backfield.

Travis Etienne Jr. (JAC)
Etienne regressed sharply last year, struggling to stay healthy and producing career-low efficiency. With a crowded backfield and a new coaching staff, he's no longer a lock to lead this team in touches. He's best viewed as a risky RB3.

Javonte Williams (DAL)
Injuries have clearly diminished Williams' elite traits. Though he's the favorite for lead duties in Dallas, his explosiveness and tackle-breaking have declined. He's a placeholder RB2/3 who could be replaced as the season unfolds.

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