Fantasy Football: Ranking the top rookie running backs
By Jon Dove
1. Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
The Giants didn’t hesitate using the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft on a running back. That’s because Saquon Barkley is that special of a talent. He showcased that talent on his first carry in a Giants uniform.
Making his preseason debut, Barkley took his first handoff and rumbled for 39 yards. He showed both his elusiveness and burst.
Barkley is going to be a major part of the Giants attack. His ability to produce big plays while still grinding out the tough yards will keep him involved in any situation. He’s also someone who has developed into a strong pass catcher.
Fantasy owners paying in a PPR format should give Barkley a boost in the rankings. There may be games where he produces a significant point total as a receiver.
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It appears that Barkley is already a consensus first round fantasy pick. He currently sits as my No. 5 ranked running back behind only Todd Gurley, David Johnson, Le’Veon Bell and Ezekiel Elliott. A case can defiantly be made that he should be ahead of Johnson and Bell.
Johnson is working his way back from injury and works behind a very questionable offensive line in Arizona. Bell’s contract situation is ugly and we’ve seen those type of situations leak out onto the field.