Unveiling Hidden Gems: Top Running Back Sleepers in Fantasy Football
Hey there, fantasy football enthusiasts! Welcome to our ultimate guide on running back sleepers – those under-the-radar gems that could turn your season around. We're diving deep into the world of sleeper RBs, so grab a coffee (or a protein shake, we don't judge) and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and running back sleepers fantasy football.
Why Chase Running Back Sleepers?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about why you should even bother with running back sleepers. In fantasy football, finding a diamond in the rough can mean the difference between a championship ring and an early offseason. Sleepers often come at a discounted price, allowing you to invest in other positions early on. Plus, there's just something satisfying about proving your league mates wrong, isn't there?
Our Approach to Finding RB Sleepers
To find the best running back sleepers, we've looked at a variety of factors:
- Opportunity: A sleeper needs a path to touches and touchdowns. - Talent: We're not interested in guys who can't make the most of their opportunities. - Situation: A change of scenery or scheme can breathe new life into a career. - Value: There's no point in drafting a sleeper in the first round. We're looking for guys you can snag late or even undrafted.
With that in mind, let's meet our top running back sleepers for the 2023 fantasy football season!
1. Rashaad Penny, Seattle Seahawks
Penny burst onto the scene in 2021, averaging an impressive 5.1 yards per carry over eight games. But injuries derailed his season, and he's now flying under the radar. With Chris Carson retired and Ken Walker III still unproven, Penny has a clear path to touches in an offense that loves to run the ball.
Why Penny could be a sleeper sensation:
- Opportunity: Penny is the favorite to lead Seattle's backfield in touches. - Talent: He's proven he can be a productive RB1 when healthy. - Situation: The Seahawks' offense is built around the run, and Penny fits their power-running scheme.
2. Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans
Pierce was a sixth-round steal in the 2022 NFL Draft, and he showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie. With Marlon Mack now in Houston, Pierce faces competition, but his talent and the Texans' lack of better options make him an intriguing sleeper.
Why Pierce could surprise:
- Talent: Pierce has the size, speed, and vision to be a feature back. - Situation: Houston's backfield is a mess, and Pierce has the best chance to emerge as the lead back. - Value: You can snag Pierce late in drafts or even off the waiver wire.
3. Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City Chiefs
Pacheco was a seventh-round pick in 2022, but he quickly won the starting job and showed promise as a rookie. With Jerick McKinnon now in New York, Pacheco has a clear path to touches in an explosive offense.
Why Pacheco could be a sneaky RB2:
- Opportunity: Pacheco is the favorite to lead Kansas City's backfield in touches. - Situation: The Chiefs' offense is one of the best in the league, and Pacheco benefits from their pass-first approach. - Talent: Pacheco has the speed and elusiveness to make the most of his touches.
4. Giovertney 'Gio' Richardson, New York Giants
Richardson was a sixth-round pick in 2022, but he impressed in the preseason and could push for touches in a lackluster Giants backfield. With Saquon Barkley and Matt Breida both injury-prone, Richardson could find himself in a starting role.
Why Richardson could be a late-round steal:
- Situation: The Giants' backfield is a mess, and Richardson has the talent to carve out a role. - Talent: Richardson has the size, speed, and receiving ability to be a three-down back. - Value: You can snag Richardson late in drafts or even undrafted.
5. Eno Benjamin, Arizona Cardinals
Benjamin was a seventh-round pick in 2020 but has yet to make a significant impact. With James Conner now in Tampa Bay, Benjamin has a chance to compete for touches in an offense that loves to run the ball.
Why Benjamin could finally break out:
- Opportunity: Benjamin has a clear path to touches with Conner gone. - Talent: Benjamin has the speed and receiving ability to be a dynamic RB. - Situation: The Cardinals' offense is built around the run, and Benjamin fits their scheme.
Honorable Mentions
While these five running back sleepers are our favorites, there are plenty of other guys who could surprise in 2023:
- Chubba Hubbard, Carolina Panthers: With Christian McCaffrey now in San Francisco, Hubbard has a chance to be the lead back in Carolina. - Dontrell Hilliard, Tennessee Titans: Hilliard impressed in limited action in 2022 and could push for touches in a Titans backfield that lacks depth. - Jerry Jeudy, Denver Broncos: Jeudy is more of a WR sleeper, but his role as a receiver out of the backfield makes him an intriguing option in PPR formats.
Conclusion
There you have it – our top running back sleepers for the 2023 fantasy football season! Remember, the key to finding sleepers is doing your research and staying informed. Keep an eye on training camps and preseason games, and don't be afraid to make a move if you see an opportunity.
So, who are you targeting as your running back sleepers this year? Let us know in the comments, and good luck in your leagues!