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As the NFL Draft approaches, it’s essential to assess the current landscape of running backs in fantasy football. While investing in running backs might seem unwise at this time due to uncertainties, there are a few players whose low valuations suggest potential hidden opportunities. Let’s explore three running backs who stand out as smart buys in dynasty fantasy football.
3 Running Backs To Target In Dynasty Fantasy Football
1. Tank Bigsby
KTC Value: RB35
Leading this trio is Tank Bigsby, who offers a compelling mix of opportunity, draft investment, and efficiency. Selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Bigsby boasts promising statistics from his early career.
A relevant study shows that running backs drafted in the third round have a 35% success rate of becoming at least an RB2, a significant increase compared to their fourth-round counterparts, who sit at 26%. In his rookie season, Bigsby had limited carries, managing just 50, but he notably stepped up in his second year, recording 766 yards on 166 attempts and maintaining an impressive 4.6 yards per carry average.
With Travis Etienne—the top back in Jacksonville—contracted until 2026 but frequently appearing in trade rumors, Bigsby could see his role expand if changes occur within the team.
2. Rhamondre Stevenson
KTC Value: RB39
Next, Rhamondre Stevenson emerges as a noteworthy option, especially considering he ranks as the 10th highest-paid running back on an average per-year basis. The New England Patriots have heavily invested in Stevenson, with the majority of the backfield responsibility resting on him and Antonio Gibson.
Despite the struggles of the Patriots’ offense last season, which may have hindered his potential, Stevenson has averaged 14.7 points per game. At just 27 years old, he is still in a prime age for running backs. With the anticipated growth of quarterback Drake Maye—due to the Patriots having secured the third overall draft pick—Stevenson could rebound significantly if the offense finds its stride again, potentially returning him to his productive form seen in 2022.
3. J.K. Dobbins
KTC Value: RB49
Finally, J.K. Dobbins continues to be an undervalued asset despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career. His age at 26 and a productive previous season, where he tallied 805 rushing yards and averaged 14.8 points per game, suggest he is still capable of high performance, making him a viable option in fantasy leagues.
There is inherent risk with Dobbins, particularly regarding his uncertain future team placement as he approaches free agency. Ideally, Dobbins may wait until after the NFL Draft to sign a contract, ensuring he can secure a position where he isn’t competing against established talent for the starting role.
Source
www.forbes.com