Pounding The Rock

There’s going to plenty of speculation this year when it comes to drafting a top running back.  The general consensus is that the number one pick isn’t what it used to be and comes with a lot more uncertainty than it has in the past.   Not that there isn’t plenty of good option to choose from, but there just isn’t that clear #1 that we typically see.  We probably would’ve if Bell wasn’t suspended for the first 2 games, but nonetheless, he’s going to be solid producer the rest of the year and into the playoffs.  Given the option available to owners it’s a good time to talk about the running backs and who’s gong to be pounding the rock in 2015 fantasy football.

Most Reliable Running Backs in the 2015 Fantasy Football Draft

  • Eddie Lacy – It’s hard not to go with this guy. He topped over 100 total yards in last 9 straight games including 9 touchdowns during that span.  He carried the ball double digits in every game during the 2014 season.  He is turning 25 this year and should be coming into his prime.  Not to mention he has a decent quarterback named Aaron Rodgers.  Expect big things from Lacy this season.
  • Le’Veon Bell – He is literally the best back in the NFL right now.  There’s definitely some argument to that, but his skills, talent, patience, and decision making ability make him the elite back that he is.  His suspension was reduced down to only 2 games so owners will have him the rest of the year and playoffs.   Even missing those 2 games, he could still wind up the top running back for the season and will certainly be the most productive catching the ball from the backfield.  He put over 2000 total yards last year and even if you take away 2 games, he is still going to put up number worthy of a top pick.
  • Jamaal Charles – He is so consistent and puts up decent numbers each and every week.  He is only 28 and still has plenty left in the tank for another good year of fantasy numbers.  It’s hard not to jump on Charles since he is clearly one of the best options and someone that can be expected to produced, but the reason I don’t have him higher is that he only rushed for 100 yards in just 1 game last year.  He failed to record double digit carries in 4 games last year and didn’t have a touchdown in 6 out of the 15 games he played in.  When it’s good, it’s really good, but when it’s bad, there isn’t much to count on.  The Chiefs don’t really have that much offense to keep and they rely on their defense to keep the score low, so they only get a few chances to score and if things aren’t going right, then its a touch day for owners.
  • Adrian Peterson – After sitting all of last year, Adrian should be really fresh and ready to go.  Despite turning 30 this year, he is in great shape and shouldn’t be much worry for owners.  He can easily put another 1000 yard plus rushing season and double digital touchdowns.  The system is great for backs and he’ll be able to work with Teddy to take some of the pressure off of him while racking up yards on the field.  This couldn’t be a better situation for Peterson.
  • Marshawn Lynch – Beastmode continues to impress every year despite owners writing him off.  He racked up over 1600 total yards and 17 touchdowns last season and goes into this season with the same mindset and system.  There is no reason why Marshawn won’t put another 1000 yard season and double digital touchdowns.  He is certainly worth a top draft pick and could make a case for going higher.
  • Matt Forte – It’s hard not to like this guy. He puts up his numbers every year and last season was no different with over 1800 total yards, but only 10 touchdowns.  He is more valuable in PPR leagues because of his 100 receptions last season lead all running backs so he could go slightly higher if the league is rewarding points for catches, which is why he is on this list and worth a 1st round draft pick.
  • Arian Foster – Keep in mind that he did have over 100 yards in 7 games and racked up 13 touchdowns last season.  He is still capable of putting up numbers when healthy and playing, but that seems to be the problem with this 29 year old back.  He has plenty of upside as he put up over 1500 total yards last year and over 20 carries in 9 games, but he missed 3 games last year plus the bye week.
  • DeMarco Murray – After getting shipped over the Eagles, Murray is looking to keep his production going in Kelly’s high-powered offense.  There should be plenty of work for this talented back that lead the league in rushing yards, but some drop-off might be expected.  The Cowboys had a great line last year and really opened the holes for Murray, whereas he might have a tougher time in Philly.

If you don’t get one of these guys don’t panic, there’s plenty of good options this year as the league continues to employ the multiple back system giving more running backs the opportunity to produce.  The following backs would be worth drafting as a top RB1 if going after an elite QB or WR in the first round.  These guys could be picked up in the second or third rounds, which make them a better value.

Back Running Back Options For RB1

Honorable Mention Running Backs

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