Fantasy football is all about finding value where others don’t. While everyone else is chasing star players, you can win your league by grabbing the right backup running backs. Injuries, game flow, and surprise performances often make these players the difference between winning and losing in Week 1.
In this article, we rank the top 10 backup running backs you should target heading into Week 1. These picks are based on opportunity, offensive scheme, and potential upside. Let’s dive in.
Running backs take the most hits on the field. Every year, starters get injured early in the season. A solid bench RB can save your week — and your season. Backup RBs often get promoted to starting roles or see increased touches when starters get banged up.
They also shine in flex spots during bye weeks or favorable matchups. Investing in backup RBs gives you insurance and upside — two things every fantasy manager needs.
How We Ranked These Top 10 Running Backs
Our rankings focus on:
Opportunity Share – Chances to see touches
Offensive Line Strength – Can they open lanes?
Pass-Catching Ability – Boosts PPR value
Injury History of Starter – Higher chance for promotion
Week 1 Matchups – Favorable defenses to exploit
Now, here are the 10 players you need to watch.
#10 – Samaje Perine – The Steady Veteran
Perine may not be flashy, but he’s dependable. With Javonte Williams still easing back from injury, Perine will likely see red-zone work and third-down snaps. He’s the type of player who can give you 8–12 points in PPR if needed.
#9 – Kendre Miller – The Explosive Rookie
Miller is a dynamic back with breakaway speed. The Saints love to rotate backs, and with Alvin Kamara’s workload likely being managed, Miller should see touches early. He’s a risky but high-upside stash.
#8 – Tyler Allgeier – Goal-Line Monster
Allgeier quietly had over 1,000 yards as a rookie. Bijan Robinson is the starter, but Atlanta loves to run the ball. Allgeier could get goal-line carries and vulture TDs. He’s a sneaky Week 1 play.
#7 – Roschon Johnson – Chicago’s Future Star
Roschon is one injury away from a full workload. Khalil Herbert is the starter, but Roschon impressed last season with his vision and power. He’s a deep-league gem.
#6 – Jerome Ford – Cleveland’s Quiet Workhorse
With Nick Chubb recovering from injury, Ford is Cleveland’s next man up. The Browns’ offensive line is elite, which makes Ford a safe bench stash and potential league-winner.
#5 – Antonio Gibson – Dual-Threat Sleeper
Gibson is now in a pass-catching role with Washington. He’s explosive and can turn a screen into a 20-yard gain. He’s worth flex consideration even as a backup.
#4 – Elijah Mitchell – The Perfect Insurance Policy
Mitchell is Christian McCaffrey’s direct backup, and we know how often Kyle Shanahan rotates backs. Mitchell is a must-have handcuff with league-winning upside if McCaffrey misses time.
#3 – Jaylen Warren – Pittsburgh’s Spark Plug
Warren has looked explosive every time he touches the ball. Najee Harris may still lead in touches, but Warren is making a case for more work. He’s a high-floor, high-ceiling stash.
#2 – Tyjae Spears – Tennessee’s Change-of-Pace Weapon
Spears is quick, elusive, and already carving out a role behind Derrick Henry. He’s also an excellent receiver, which makes him even more valuable in PPR leagues.
#1 – Zack Moss – The Ultimate Week 1 Backup
Moss is in line for the Week 1 start while Jonathan Taylor recovers from injury. He’s the top plug-and-play option right now and should see a heavy workload.
Key Stats Table – Quick Comparison of All 10 RBs
| Player | Team | Strength | Week 1 Upside |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zack Moss | Colts | Heavy volume | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Tyjae Spears | Titans | Speed/Receiving | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Jaylen Warren | Steelers | Explosiveness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Elijah Mitchell | 49ers | High floor | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Antonio Gibson | Commanders | PPR threat | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Jerome Ford | Browns | Workhorse role | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Roschon Johnson | Bears | Power back | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Tyler Allgeier | Falcons | Goal-line carries | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Kendre Miller | Saints | Big-play ability | ⭐⭐ |
| Samaje Perine | Broncos | Consistency | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Fantasy Draft Strategy – When to Grab a Backup RB
The best time to grab these players is in the mid-to-late rounds of your draft. You don’t want to reach too early, but you also don’t want to wait too long and miss out.
Rounds 8-10: Target high-upside players like Jaylen Warren or Tyjae Spears.
Rounds 11-13: Secure handcuffs like Elijah Mitchell and Jerome Ford.
Waiver Wire Watch: Keep an eye on Kendre Miller and Roschon Johnson early in the season.
Pro Tips to Win Week 1 with Your RB Bench
Follow Injury Reports: A late scratch can turn a backup into a starter.
Check Matchups: Bad run defenses = huge upside.
Stay Flexible: Don’t be afraid to start a backup RB in the flex spot.
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FAQs
Q1. Should I draft backup running backs in standard leagues?
A. Yes! Backup RBs provide depth and can become starters at any time.
Q2. Which backup RB has the highest upside for Week 1?
A. Zack Moss is the best play due to guaranteed touches with Jonathan Taylor sidelined.
Q3. Who is the best PPR backup RB?
A. Antonio Gibson and Tyjae Spears are great pass-catching options.
Q4. How often do backup RBs become starters?
A. Almost every season, at least 4–5 backups turn into full-time starters due to injuries.
Q5. Should I draft handcuffs for my RB1?
A. Yes, especially if your starter has an injury history.
Q6. What if I miss out on these players?
A. Stay active on the waiver wire. N
.ew backups emerge every week based on injuries and performance.
