10 RB sleepers to target for fantasy football Week 5

5. Kenneth Gainwell, Philadelphia Eagles

Kenneth Gainwell has been somewhat inconsistent to start his career, but that’s to be expected from a rookie running back who’s playing a backup role. Miles Sanders is still the starter in the City of Brotherly Love, but Gainwell is right on his heels. Last week, he solidified his role as a legitimate passing back, catching six passes and scoring a rushing touchdown.

Gainwell and his Eagles are facing the Carolina Panthers this week who shocked the world with a trade for Stephon Gilmore. That isn’t going to impact them on the field since the former Defensive Player of the Year is still injured. However, it might have kept the Panthers’ eye off the ball. The Panthers have allowed the least amount of receptions by running backs this season, but Gainwell and the Eagles’ offense will really test whether that was matchup-based or not.

4. Chuba Hubbard, Carolina Panthers

Another “backup” running back on the other side of the field. Chuba Hubbard was just fine in his first week taking over for an injured Christian McCaffrey. The Eagles ranked 27th against the run, so it’s a much more favorable matchup this week. Hubbard only got 13 carries last week, but this week should be much more fruitful for Hubbard.

The issue here is McCaffrey is practicing. McCaffrey says he believes he has a chance to play this week. That seems inexplicable. However, McCaffrey has shown in the past that he can come back quicker than the prognosis says. So, if that’s the case, don’t start Hubbard. However, it just seems unnecessary for the Panthers to start anyone but Hubbard against this team.