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Rookie running backs are some of the hardest players to evaluate in fantasy football. This is especially the case in 2024, as zero running backs were taken in the first round of the NFL draft. But, just because a player enters the season buried on the depth chart, that doesn’t mean they can’t offer plenty of fantasy value — just look at De’Von Achane last year.
In this article, I’ll be taking a look at some rookie running backs who could potentially become fantasy-relevant this year, even if they aren’t starting the season as their team’s RB1.
Jonathon Brooks, Carolina Panthers
Brooks was the first running back off the board in the 2024 NFL Draft, going 46th overall to the Carolina Panthers. He will miss at least the first four weeks of the season after being placed on the PUP list to start the season, as he is still recovering from the torn ACL he suffered in November 2023. However, I could envision him becoming a valuable fantasy asset for the back half of the season. Brooks will likely split touches with Chuba Hubbard upon return, but I’m willing to bet on talent winning out.
Brooks was electric in the open field in college, ranking top 15 in the nation in missed tackles last year at Texas. He is also a capable pass-catcher, hauling in 25 catches. Hubbard, on the other hand, is as average as it gets at running back. He ranked outside the top 30 in yards after contact per carry and breakaway run percentage last year, finishing as the RB26 despite ranking 11th among running backs in touches.
Generally speaking, I think the Panthers offense has sleeper potential across the board. They made improvements to their offensive line and receiving corps, and brought in quarterback whisperer Dave Canales as head coach. If Bryce Young can put things together in his sophomore year with this improved supporting cast, the Panthers could be a better scoring offense than we expect. This gives Brooks solid upside, assuming he is able to win the starting job once he…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/fantasy-football-rookie-rbs-that-matter-for-2024-and-beyond-144853002.html
Author : Yahoo Sports
Publish date : 2024-08-29 14:48:53
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