As the NFL season approaches, many fantasy football enthusiasts are wondering which position to target in their drafts. In recent years, the wide receiver position has become increasingly top-heavy, leaving fewer options for fantasy owners. However, with the decline in pass attempts and efficiency, running backs have become a more attractive option.

The Rise of Running Backs

According to recent statistics, there has been a steady decline in pass attempts, from 34.4 per game per team in 2021 to 32.1 last season. This decrease in passing attempts has resulted in a decrease in raw passing totals. Additionally, there has been a decrease in wide receiver targets, from 12.4 per game per team in 2021 to 11 in 2025.

On the other hand, running back rush attempts have remained steady between 21.6 and 21.8 per game per team in each of the past five years. In 2021, there were only 15 running backs that averaged 15-plus touches per game — that number has been at least 20 in each of the past four seasons. Offenses have embraced the run in part because defenses aren’t as worried about giving up a five-yard run as they are a 20-yard pass play.

The result of all of this is an uptick in fantasy points for running backs. And with some outstanding talent joining the league over the past three seasons, including six of the first 10 running backs that will get picked in your drafts, we’re looking at a glorious time for the position.

Draft Strategies

There are several draft strategies that fantasy owners can employ when it comes to running backs. Here are a few options:

• Get two studs early: This involves targeting two top-tier running backs with your first two picks. The pros of this strategy include the fact that the top running backs have been outscoring the top wide receivers since the NFL trends began, and they figure to continue into 2026, thus boosting RB opportunities. Two top-tier RBs on the same team means two high-output players every week.
• Get one stud early: This involves targeting one top-tier running back with your first pick and then using your second pick to target a wide receiver or another position. The pros of this strategy include the fact that it allows maximum draft flexibility and roster balance.
• Purposely wait until Round 3 to start hogging RBs: This involves targeting running backs later in the draft, potentially with your first pick in Round 3. The pros of this strategy include the fact that you’re still drafting some quality, start-worthy running backs, just not with the same profile as those in the top-two tiers.
• Wait until Round 4 for RBs: This involves targeting running backs even later in the draft, potentially with your first pick in Round 4. The pros of this strategy include the fact that you’ll have the opportunity to find some very good players at other positions and potentially dominate the rest of your opponents with a big four-pack of receivers and a tight end.

When considering a running back, don’t just think about legs; think about entire bodies. You should target:

• A RB with do-it-all skills who will get 15-plus touches (not carries) per game
• A RB who will regularly get touches near the goal line
• A RB who can catch and will play in passing situations
• A RB without a disastrous offensive line
• A RB on a team that won’t be behind every week
• A RB who you believe can give you 17-plus PPR/13-plus half-PPR/11-plus non-PPR points per game

Conclusion

With the rise of running backs in fantasy football, it’s essential to understand the draft strategies that can help you succeed. Whether you choose to get two studs early, get one stud early, purposely wait until Round 3 to start hogging RBs, or wait until Round 4 for RBs, there are pros and cons to each approach. By considering the factors outlined above, you can make informed decisions and build a winning fantasy football team.