Week 1 Fantasy RB Rankings: Your Backfield Blueprint!
Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Welcome to the kickoff of our weekly series where we dive deep into the week 1 fantasy RB rankings to help you make the most of your starting lineup. We're here to provide you with a solid foundation for your running back decisions, so let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and week 1 fantasy rb rankings.
The Top Tier: Elite RBs to Build Your Team Around
1. Christian McCaffrey, Carolina Panthers
Starting with the obvious, Christian McCaffrey has been a fantasy football monster. Last season, he finished as the overall RB1, and there's no reason to believe he won't repeat that performance in 2021. McCaffrey is an absolute workhorse, leading the league in touches (404) and receptions (117) among RBs in 2020.
2. Derrick Henry, Tennessee Titans
Derrick Henry has been on a tear, rushing for over 2,000 yards in the last two seasons combined. His sheer power and consistency make him an elite fantasy asset. Despite the Titans' focus on the run, Henry also managed 19 receptions in 2020, showing he can contribute in the passing game as well.
3. Dalvin Cook, Minnesota Vikings
Dalvin Cook has been a fantasy RB1 when healthy, and he's shown no signs of slowing down. In 2020, he finished as the RB3 despite missing two games. With a talented Vikings offense and a clear lead role, Cook is set to dominate once again in 2021.
The Middle Tier: RBs with Upside and Opportunity
4. Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara's versatility and touchdown-scoring ability make him a must-start every week. Despite sharing the backfield with Latavius Murray last season, Kamara still managed to finish as the RB4. With Murray now in Baltimore, Kamara should see an even heavier workload in 2021.
5. Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns
Nick Chubb has been a fantasy RB1 in his first three seasons, and 2021 should be no different. The Browns' commitment to the run game and Chubb's elite talent make him a safe bet for another strong season. Keep an eye on the Kareem Hunt situation, but Chubb's workload is secure.
6. Ezekiel Elliott, Dallas Cowboys
Zeke has had an up-and-down fantasy career, but he's still a top-10 RB when healthy. The Cowboys' offense should be improved in 2021, and Elliott should benefit from better play around him. Tony Pollard's presence is a concern, but Elliott's workload and upside make him a solid fantasy option.
The Late-Round Sleepers: RBs to Target in Drafts
7. Antonio Gibson, Washington Football Team
Gibson burst onto the scene in 2020, finishing as the RB12 in his rookie season. With a full offseason under his belt and an increased workload, Gibson has the potential to take a significant leap in 2021. He's a fantastic late-round target with massive upside.
8. J.K. Dobbins, Baltimore Ravens
J.K. Dobbins took over as the Ravens' lead back in 2020, finishing as the RB15 despite sharing touches with Mark Ingram. With Ingram now in Houston, Dobbins is poised for a breakout season. His elite talent and the Ravens' commitment to the run make him a must-own fantasy asset.
9. Myles Gaskin, Miami Dolphins
Myles Gaskin was the Dolphins' leading rusher in 2020, despite sharing touches with Jordan Howard and Salvon Ahmed. With Ahmed now in Seattle and Howard a free agent, Gaskin is poised for an increased workload in 2021. He's a solid late-round target with RB1 upside if he can secure the lead role.
So there you have it, folks! Our week 1 fantasy RB rankings to help you dominate your drafts and start the season strong. Stay tuned for more fantasy football content as the 2021 season approaches. Until then, happy drafting!