Fantasy Football 2018: Ranking the top 50 running backs
By Jon Dove
15. Jerick McKinnon, San Francisco 49ers
McKinnon is the talk of the fantasy world and is expected to have a big year in San Francisco. Most of the hype comes from Kyle Shannahan’s ability to utilize running backs with McKinnon’s skill set. The fact 49ers signed him to a big-money deal also speaks to how they value him.
There are some pit falls here because McKinnon has yet to prove he can be a reliable fantasy option.
14. Joe Mixon, Cincinnati Bengals
Mixon is trending upwards in my rankings after a strong preseason debut. He’s a dual threat who can hurt a defense with both his legs and hands. The Bengals also appear ready to feed Mixon the ball.
13. Jordan Howard, Chicago Bears
Howard’s fantasy value varies depending on your league’s scoring. He isn’t someone who will provide a lot of catches so he could slide in PPR leagues. However, Howard will give you yards on the ground and is in line for the goal line work.
12. Devonta Freeman, Atlanta Falcons
Freeman has been a steady performer and someone fantasy owners can count on. The only concerns are how much work will Tevin Coleman steal and will the heavy workload over the psat three years take their toll.
11. Christian McCaffrey, Carolina Panthers
McCaffrey figures to be a PPR monster just like he was in his rookie season. However, there is talk out of Carolina that McCaffrey could get over 25 touches per game. That means he’ll be equally involved as a runner.
If he get that type of workload McCaffrey has the talent to be a top-5 fantasy back.