Top 10 RB Rankings + CeeDee Saga | Fantasy Football 2024 – Ep. 1609

Introduction and Overview 00:00

• The hosts introduce the Fantasy Footballers Podcast episode, which focuses on the top 10 running back rankings and other Fantasy Football insights.
• The Ultimate Draft Kit is highlighted as a key resource for pre-season preparation with player projections and profiles.

“Welcome to the Fantasy Footballers Podcast with your hosts, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright.”

Preseason Discussion and Insights 01:17

• The hosts discuss the lack of notable performances in the preseason games.
• They mention that preseason is primarily for seeing which players are starting or have potential rather than definitive player assessments.

“If you just watched pretty much the first quarter of each game, you saw nothing.”

Preseason Player Takeaways 02:23

• Discussions highlight observations from preseason games, particularly Tyrone Tracy being a standout as the potential backup behind Devin Singletary.
• The conversation also touches on the competition between Eric Gray and other players based on their performances.

“Tyrone Tracy does appear to already be established as the guy behind Devon Singletary.”

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Rookie Quarterbacks and Running Back Performance 06:11

• There is an exploration of the relationship between rookie quarterbacks and the performance of their running backs.
• Data shows that running backs paired with rookie quarterbacks have a stable floor but rarely achieve high-end fantasy finishes.

“They’ve got a safer floor than you might think, but it is very rare for them to be a strong high-end fantasy finish.”

CD Lamb Contract Highlights and Social Media Reaction 09:48

• A quote from Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stating no urgency in extending CeeDee Lamb‘s contract provoked reactions on social media.
• CeeDee Lamb removed “America’s Team” from his bio, and his tweet regarding Jerry’s comments gained significant attention.

“I don’t have any urgency to get it done.”

Urgency of Getting CeeDee Lamb‘s Contract Done 11:13

• There is a sense of urgency within the organization regarding signing CeeDee Lamb to a new deal.
• The conversation humorously references Jerry Jones’ age by suggesting he acts quickly to see the deal completed.

“It’s pretty urgent because you’re about to die.”

• The discussion underlines the importance of resolving CD Lamb’s contract situation as it culminates in a strong statement predicting that the deal will be completed within the week.

“I’m going to make a guarantee right now. It’s done in the next week.”

Importance of CeeDee Lamb to the Cowboys’ Offense 14:22

• A debate emphasizes CeeDee Lamb‘s irreplaceable role on the Cowboys and how his absence would majorly impact the team’s performance.
• Statistically, CeeDee Lamb accounts for a significant portion of the Cowboys’ receiving targets, yards, and touchdowns.

“If CeeDee Lamb is not on this team, this is a bad offense.”

TJ Hockenson‘s Injury and Draft Strategy 15:11

• The discussion touches on plans for drafting TJ Hockenson given his current injury status.
• There’s advice to potentially draft him late and place him in an IR spot, acknowledging his likely slow return and potential waiver availability if another player is injured.

“He won’t even retain his IR spot.”

Anthony Richardson and Quinton Johnston Updates 16:44

• Updates indicate that Anthony Richardson and starters will play limited snaps in an upcoming Colts game.
• Quinton Johnston is discussed in light of the Chargers’ vague plans for his development, with humor on the nondescript nature of the term “major plans.”

“Is he going to be a chef, or what’s he going to be doing for you?”

Jim Harbaugh and Running Back Rankings 18:42

• Brief commentary on Jim Harbaugh’s press responses, both humorous and regarding Michigan’s recruiting violation consequences, showcasing his unapologetic nature.
• Transition to a rundown of the top 10 running backs for fantasy prospects, starting with Derrick Henry at number 10. Despite being older, his consistency keeps him ranked high.

“He’s defying the age cliff.”

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Derrick Henry‘s Role and Baltimore Ravens‘ Strategy 21:25

• Derrick Henry is considered an outlier in terms of his physical shape and the team’s strategic investment in him. His performance has been strongly tied to game outcomes, with higher fantasy point averages in games that are won.
• The Baltimore Ravens may not use Derrick Henry with the same high volume of carries as seen in his previous seasons with the Titans. Historically, the Ravens have used other running backs to close out games efficiently in the fourth quarter.
• Henry’s efficiency in three quarters of play is believed to be more valuable than most running backs playing four quarters because of the number of wins expected for the Ravens this season.
• The expectation is that Henry will score frequently, even if he might not have as many carries as before. Despite concerns about an aging offensive line, Henry’s capability to score around the goal line remains a valuable asset.
• Discussing his potential downsides, Henry may be less involved in the passing game, and his efficiency may wane against a backdrop of reduced offensive line quality.

“For me, Derrick Henry‘s three quarters of efficiency in a win is more valuable than most running backs in four quarters.”

Isiah Pacheco‘s Position in Kansas City’s Offense 25:52

• Isaiah Pacheco ranks number nine in the team’s running back lineup. There is confidence that he is pivotal in the Kansas City Chiefs‘ offense.
• Despite the primary focus on Patrick Mahomes and other offensive figures like Travis Kelce, Pacheco is seen as a potentially significant figure due to the lack of significant roster changes in the running back position and Andy Reid’s endorsement of his skillset.
• Pacheco has shown versatility, with the ability to execute various routes and protect efficiently, making him crucial in Kansas City’s offensive strategy.
• Statistical efficiency might not be outstanding, but Pacheco’s potential for high volume within a powerful offense compensates for it. His role increased throughout the previous season, reflected in improved snap percentages.
• There remains optimism that Pacheco, due to his youth and offensive positioning, will have a prosperous season in a team expected to achieve numerous victories despite not being an elite talent statistically.

“The Kansas City Chiefs view Isaiah Pacheco as ‘just the dude’ within the running back core, poised to capitalize on his three-down skillset.”

Saquon Barkley‘s Potential and Concerns 31:30

• Concerns about Saquon Barkley‘s goal line opportunities and touchdown potential have shifted, drawing parallels with how DeAndre Swift benefited from an excellent offensive line, particularly in yards before contact.
• Saquon had only eight opportunities inside the five-yard line last year, while Swift had 14, illustrating a significant potential improvement with a strong offensive line.
• The Giants ranked 30th in running back carries inside the 10-yard line, whereas the Eagles were fourth, indicating room for Barkley to excel in a better offensive environment.
• Barkley’s potential ranges from finishing as an RB5 to as low as RB18 due to uncertainties in his offensive situation and injury prone history.

“I am rising on Saquon Barkley because if you give him those 14 carries inside the five-yard line, he’s getting more touchdowns.”

Travis Etienne‘s Role and Challenges 34:06

• Travis Etienne had a dynamic start last season, ranking as the number two running back behind CMC in the initial weeks but dipped to RB32 in the latter half.
• Confidence in Etienne remains due to his pivotal role in the offense, coupled with youth and strong team reliance despite lacking depth.
• Concerns arise from the offensive line issues and Trevor Lawrence‘s injury challenges last year, but Etienne’s 340 potential opportunities remain promising.
• Comparison with Saquon Barkley highlights a preference for Etienne due to his young age, despite both having distinct advantages and drawbacks.

“Etienne’s 340 opportunities to bear itself out this season, I’m leaning on him for success.”

Jonathan Taylor‘s Return and Limitations 39:21

• After periods of absence due to injuries and poor team situations, Jonathan Taylor is seen as a strong option again, generally ranked around RB6.
• Concerns about Anthony Richardson‘s running ability possibly capping Taylor’s red zone opportunities and overall ceiling are discussed.
• Historically, running backs under 15 fantasy points per game with a rushing quarterback capable of scoring over 100 fantasy points like Richardson are rare.
• Despite limitations, Taylor can still have an exceptional season, albeit unlikely to top as RB1 or within the top three.

“Jonathan Taylor cannot be the RB1 but will likely be an awesome running back one in fantasy.”

Analysis of Kyren Williams‘ Performance and Role 41:29

• Kyren Williams ranked fifth and demonstrated significant production in the previous season, capitalizing on 37% of the team’s opportunities in the games he played.
• Concerns fluctuated over his role due to injuries and the drafting of Blake Corum, but ultimately, Williams was reaffirmed as a focal point for the Rams.
• Despite competition and depth brought into the team, expectations maintain that his performance capacity remains substantial, citing his pre-injury performance as exemplary.
• Williams’ adaptability and skill make him a valuable player in fantasy football, even if his scoring potential slightly diminishes with shared responsibilities.

“If a guy was great on the field and the team brings in competition, I’m not going to be scared off of awesome.”

Jameer Gibbs and Fantasy Draft Concerns 45:47

• Jameer Gibbs is poised as RB four in average draft positions, with drafters showing mixed feelings depending on the timing of their pick.
• Gibbs shares a backfield, which introduces uncertainty, but his explosive potential and expected increased involvement, due to his receiving capabilities, offer considerable upside.
• The Detroit Lions’ offensive setup, with a strong line and scheme, positions Gibbs, along with Montgomery, for significant success, especially if injuries shift the balance.
• Last season, Gibbs showed remarkable promise from week seven onward, marking him as an exceptional talent for fantasy leagues.

“Despite being in a timeshare, Jameer Gibbs can finish as the RB one.”

Breece Hall‘s Resilience and Fantasy Value 49:10

• Ranked at number three, Breece Hall’s performance stands out due to his ability to excel on an underperforming Jets offense, finishing as RB four despite recovering from an ACL injury.
• The improved Jets offense, with a bolstered line and Aaron Rodgers at the helm, is expected to create better scenarios for Hall’s success.
• Hall’s ability to perform at a high level regardless of offensive conditions reinforces his position as a top-tier running back in fantasy football.

“The Jets offense was so historically bad and he was the running back four.”

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Running Back Analysis: Breece Hall and Bijan Robinson 51:20

• Breece Hall showed remarkable recovery from knee injuries, performing impressively in the final three games of the season even when defenses anticipated his plays. His explosiveness and reliability make him a standout back.
• There is little investment in a backup behind Breece Hall, with only a day-three draft pick, Braylon Allen, as potential depth. Breece Hall is clearly the primary back for his team.
• Bijan Robinson is ranked as the second top running back. Unlike Hall, he has strong backup support with Tyler Allgeier, who provides excellent depth and versatility.
• Bijan Robinson is expected to contribute significantly to the offense with his ability to catch passes, make explosive plays, and seize red-zone opportunities.

“If you had to bet on opportunities this season to touch the football, would it be Bijan or Breece?”

Offense Strategies and Personnel Use 52:40

• The Falcons employed 11 personnel formation on only 14% of first downs last year, highlighting a low utilization of three wide receivers. This approach was puzzling given their success in that formation.
• 11 personnel consists of one tight end and one running back, often aiming to spread the field more than a 12 personnel setup, which involves two tight ends meant for powerful running plays.
• Comparison between the offenses of the Jets and Falcons revolves around the question of which team will score more points. The balance leans towards the Falcons potentially due to a lesser defensive strength, influencing game dynamics.

“I’m the Arthur Smith of dietary choices. Arthur had a plan.”

Christian McCaffrey‘s Dominance 56:29

• Christian McCaffrey holds the top spot in running back rankings, attributed to his consistent high fantasy points scoring potential when healthy.
• Despite dealing with a current calf injury, McCaffrey is expected to excel given his discipline and understanding of his physical well-being.
• Last season, McCaffrey had only one game outside of the top 15 running backs, with a streak of consistent touchdowns reflecting his exceptional performance.

“Christian McCaffrey is going to score more fantasy points than almost every running back every single week when he is healthy.”