NFL Fantasy Football 2024 Top 8 Value Picks: Running Backs

Last week we discussed my three favorite running backs for NFL fantasy football in rounds 2-4. Each running back holds with sneaky value or are, in my mind, the clear cut RB to draft in those rounds. Let’s dig deeper today and highlight a running back from rounds 5-8. This season the running back position feels deep, allowing fantasy players to go WR-WR with their first two picks.

This is an ongoing series to highlight players who REEK of value in NFL fantasy drafts. We aren’t talking about McCaffrey with the 1st overall pick, but instead we are going to be finding gems. Each article will feature a position within a range of draft rounds (we will always skip the 1st round). We will assume that these picks are for 12-team leagues with .5 PPR and will not be discussing in terms of Superflex. On top of that I’ll highlight a futures bet that corresponds with each player, all of whose odds can be found on BETONLINE.

And now, without any more delay, let’s begin with NFL fantasy football 2024’s top three value picks: the running backs. Get ready for the excitement of mock draft season!

1. Running Back Value Round Five: James Connor

Imagine closing your eyes and pondering what you consider to be the criteria for an RB2. You would likely envision a player who receives a substantial workload, gets opportunities to score near the goal-line, possesses the ability to catch passes, and faces minimal competition in the backfield. Now, consider this: there is a running back who perfectly fits these qualifications and is available in the fifth round.

It is anticipated that James Connor will continue to be the primary running back for the Arizona Cardinals. Despite participating in only 13 games last season, he managed to secure the 15th spot among NFL fantasy running backs. Conner accumulated 9 touchdowns (including 2 receiving) and achieved a personal best of 1,040 rushing yards. However, he had a career-low output with 166 receiving yards from 27 receptions.

The increase in rushing yards was influenced by the absence of dual-threat QB Kyler Murray due to injury throughout most of the season. On the other hand, the decline in receiving yards for Conner can also be attributed to the same circumstances. However, this balance should rectify itself with a healthy Murray and a better offensive line.

In the 5th round of fantasy drafts, there are several receivers who could be a reliable flex option. This leaves the possibility of Kamara or Walker being available early in the round if they happen to fall, but there are limited choices at the running back position. Despite this, I would prefer to select Conner here, even if it means reaching a bit, rather than opting for players like Keenan Allen, Amari Cooper, or Tee Higgins. This preference is especially true if I have already prioritized loading up on wide receivers earlier in the draft.

Taking into account his injury record, selecting Conner in the fifth round helps reduce some of the risk involved, while still presenting a significant potential for success. With the ability to potentially serve as a dependable RB2 and even reach RB1 status during certain weeks, Conner proves to be a valuable addition at this point in the NFL fantasy draft.

James Conner o6.5 rushing touchdowns for +102 on BetOnline:

Conner’s consistent performance in the last three seasons with the Cardinals has been remarkable, as he has scored 7 rushing touchdowns each year. However, his touchdown tally skyrocketed to an impressive 15 in 2021, thanks to the Cardinals’ improved offensive strength. With the addition of potential superstar WR Marvin Harrison JR from this year’s draft and a stronger O-line, Conner is poised to exceed this futures bet with ease.

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2. NFL Fantasy Round Six Value Running Backs: David Montgomery

In the pursuit of a dynamic running game, the Detroit Lions have a fondness for incorporating versatile runners. In previous seasons, the electrifying Swift and the hard-hitting Jamaal Williams formed a formidable duo that wreaked havoc upon opposing teams. Similarly, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery proved to be a relentless force that troubled adversaries throughout the previous season. Remarkably, one can acquire a portion of this powerful tandem by selecting them in the sixth round of NFL fantasy drafts.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Gibbs in the backfield, Montgomery’s established performance record and the Lions’ formidable offense make him an enticing choice as a potential RB2 or flex player. With the Lions’ high-caliber offense consistently creating opportunities for Montgomery through running lanes or positioning him for goal line success.

In the previous season, the offense played a crucial role in helping Montgomery achieve his most successful year yet, with an impressive 13 touchdowns and over 1,000 rushing yards. Additionally, Gibbs contributed significantly with 945 rushing yards, 315 receiving yards, and a total of 11 touchdowns. Clearly, this offense has space for two talented running backs. Although Montgomery may experience a slight decrease in production due to Gibbs’ presence, he is expected to surpass expectations set by his 6th round NFL fantasy draft position.

David Montgomery u8.5 rushing touchdowns for -122 on BetOnline:

I understand, I understand. This may not align with the theme of value. However, considering the numerous individuals in need of support in Detroit, both Gibbs and Jameson Williams have the potential for greater involvement. Additionally, we should not overlook the contributions of Sam LaPorta and the exceptional Amon St.Ra. If Montgomery can maintain good health and achieve around 7 touchdowns and over 900 total yards, he could still offer significant value. Let’s remember, this is the 6th round, and ideally, he would serve as your RB3.

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3. Value Running Backs NFL Fantasy Round Eight: Nick Chubb

Round 7 will be skipped due to the lack of desirable running backs. Assuming I have already secured a good number of wide receivers and running backs, along with a reliable tight end, I am aiming to select my QB1, such as Dak Prescott or Jordon Love, in this round. As a result, we will proceed directly to round 8.

I have a strong admiration for multiple running backs in this group. Zamir White, Zach Moss, and Johnathan Brookes all demonstrate exceptional skills. However, if you are open to taking a risk, there is a chance to secure a top 15 running back in the eighth round by drafting Nick Chubb.

After suffering a devastating injury that prematurely ended his season after just two games, Chubb has bounced back impressively in his NFL fantasy career. He has secured a spot among the top 10 running backs twice and has consistently ranked within the top 15 twice as well. Notably, Chubb has achieved over 1,200 rushing yards in three out of the four seasons and has consistently contributed over 150 receiving yards each year. Although the timeline for Chubb’s return remains uncertain, his potential return makes him an enticing option to draft, especially when considering the possibility of securing a valuable backup late in NFL drafts.

If Chubb bounces back and performs at his best, it will be an incredible steal. The Browns aim to dominate the game by running the ball, utilizing their strong defense. By prolonging their offensive drives, they can provide more rest for their exceptional defense. Chubb will once again play a crucial role in this strategy, offering immense value for NFL fantasy teams in the 8th round.

Nick Chubb over rushing yards or touchdowns on BetOnline:

Regrettably, due to Chubb’s uncertain availability in Week 1, sportsbooks have yet to provide odds for his rushing yards or rushing touchdown lines. Nonetheless, I anticipate that both of these metrics will be undervalued once they become available. I plan to bet on the over, but I will wait until we have a clearer picture of how many games he will participate in. Chubb has consistently averaged 1,268 rushing yards throughout his 5 full NFL seasons, along with 9.6 touchdowns. If the rushing line is set below 1,200 and the touchdown line at 7.5 or even 8.5, it will surely be an enticing opportunity.

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Interested in More Content?

More NFL Content on Betting News:

• NFL Fantasy Football 2024 Top 3 Value Picks: Running Backs
• 2024 NFL Power Rankings & Super Bowl Odds
• 2024 NFL Schedule: The Best and Worst of the Schedule
• NFL Expert Betting Guide

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