Fantasy: Backup running back rankings

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Given the rate at which injuries strike the running back position, knowing who's next in line for carries is critical for fantasy owners.

Not all backup rushers are created equal, and though the league-winning potential of players like Kareem Hunt and Tony Pollard may appear obvious, many second-string ball carriers aren't getting the respect they deserve in fantasy drafts.

Here's how we're ranking the top reserve tailbacks, broken down into tiers:

More than a backup

• Top-10 upside if Nick Chubb is injured
• Proven RB1 during time with Chiefs
• Could still provide RB2 production without starting

Elite options

• RB1 upside if starter is injured
• Stuck behind a more talented back
• Will flirt with flex value some weeks, even as a backup

May emerge as starter

• Top-20 upside if starter is injured
• Could rise to the top of the depth chart during season
• Can provide flex value some weeks, even as a backup

Hanging around

• Top-20 upside if starter is injured
• Currently in a committee with a more qualified teammate
• Can provide flex value most weeks, even as a backup

Unproven upside

• Top-24 upside if starter is injured
• Should have notable role behind a veteran lead back
• Can provide flex value some weeks, even as a backup

Wild cards

• Top-30 upside if starting at any point
• 2021 role yet to be determined
• Workload questions due to crowded backfield

PPR specialists

• Limited upside as a fantasy insurance policy
• Unlikely to serve as workhorse if starter is injured
• Can offer flex value in PPR formats, even as a backup

Volume-dependent veterans

• Veteran playing behind starters with an injury history
• Doubts surrounding hold on backup job or ability to produce if called upon
• Would need majority of touches to be fantasy relevant

Unclear situations

• Upside in quality offenses if a clear backup emerges and starter is injured
• Value limited by possibility of committee replacement scenario
• Players to draft as bench stashes in final rounds

Deep targets

• Long shots with intriguing upside if injuries hit their backfield
• Have the skills to produce as lead back over short stretches
• Watchlist candidates who could turn into key waiver wire pickups