In the 2024 fantasy football landscape, identifying valuable backup running backs (RBs) can be a game-changer for managers looking to gain an edge in their leagues. Here are some of the most valuable backup RBs to target this season:
1. Tyjae Spears (Tennessee Titans): Spears is one of the most intriguing backups this season. Known for his versatility and playmaking ability, he is just one injury away from becoming a fantasy RB1. He posted impressive metrics last season, excelling in rushing, receiving, and pass blocking. If Derrick Henry were to miss any time, Spears could step into a significant role, making him a high-upside stash on any fantasy roster.
2. Blake Corum (Los Angeles Rams): As the likely RB2 behind Kyren Williams, Corum offers strong potential in a Rams offense that could produce a top-10 scoring unit. Corum’s third-round draft capital and the soft depth chart behind Williams make him a valuable handcuff with the potential to take over a lead role if Williams goes down.
3. Zach Charbonnet (Seattle Seahawks): Charbonnet's solid performance last season has positioned him as a valuable backup with standalone potential. If Kenneth Walker III misses any time, Charbonnet is likely to step into a workhorse role, making him a highly sought-after backup in fantasy leagues.
4. Tyler Allgeier (Atlanta Falcons): Allgeier showed his value last season by racking up 200+ touches without losing a fumble or dropping a pass. While Bijan Robinson is the lead back in Atlanta, Allgeier's ability to perform when given opportunities makes him an essential handcuff with significant upside.
5. Antonio Gibson (New England Patriots): Gibson's role as Rhamondre Stevenson's backup in New England positions him as a valuable fantasy asset. Given Stevenson's heavy workload, Gibson could see plenty of opportunities, especially in case of injury, making him a smart pickup for fantasy managers.
These running backs are all one injury away from becoming key contributors in fantasy football, and savvy managers will want to keep them on their radar as the season progresses.
