“We asked nine analysts to reveal a breakout running back candidate to help you have an idea of players ready to exceed expectations this fantasy football season. Among their picks are the following players:
1. Devin Singletary, Buffalo Bills: Singletary has stood out in the preseason, running exclusively with the Bills’ starters and impressing with his performance. While he may not be an every-snap RB, he is expected to be the head of a backfield committee for Buffalo.
2. Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans: Known for his violent running style, Pierce has shown promise as a rookie. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact puts him in the same territory as fantasy heroes like Josh Jacobs and Derrick Henry. He is projected to be a near-every down back for the Texans.
3. Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions: Selected 12th overall in the draft, Gibbs joins a surging Lions offense that has the potential to provide him with plenty of opportunities. With the departure of Jamaal Williams, Gibbs is expected to see a significant workload and could become a first-round fantasy pick in the future.
4. Cam Akers, Los Angeles Rams: Akers finished strong last season, racking up impressive rushing yards and touchdowns in the final six starts. With a thin depth chart in the Rams’ backfield, Akers has a great opportunity to shine and has the potential to outperform his current ADP in fantasy drafts.
5. Khalil Herbert, Chicago Bears: With the departure of David Montgomery, Herbert is poised to take over as the featured back for the Bears. Playing alongside quarterback Justin Fields, he has already demonstrated his potential as a three-down back and could far exceed his value relative to his ADP.
6. Alexander Mattison, Minnesota Vikings: Mattison has consistently performed well when given the opportunity as the Vikings’ lead back. With Dalvin Cook often dealing with injuries, Mattison has showcased his ability to produce fantasy points and now has the workhorse role to himself.
7. Ke’Shawn Vaughn, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Vaughn is going late in drafts but has the potential to see an RB1 workload in the Buccaneers’ offense. With Leonard Fournette gone, there is a big opportunity for Vaughn to step up and make a name for himself.
8. David Montgomery, Detroit Lions: Montgomery is expected to fill the role previously held by Jamaal Williams in the Lions’ offense. With a strong offensive line, he should have plenty of opportunities to score touchdowns, although his target share may be limited due to the addition of rookie Jahmyr Gibbs.
9. Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers: While not drafted by any of the analysts, Harris is considered by one writer to have the potential for a breakout season. Although he may not be highly regarded, his workhorse role in the Steelers’ offense could lead to a productive season.
These breakout running backs have the potential to exceed expectations and provide fantasy football owners with valuable production. Keeping an eye on these players during your fantasy drafts could give you an edge when it comes to building a winning team.”