Running Back Regression After Leading the NFL in Rushing

Running Back Regression After Leading the NFL in Rushing Leading the NFL in rushing is a career highlight for most running backs. It also leads to banner fantasy football totals. However, most RBs see a precipitous decline in production the season after topping the league in rushing yards. This running back regression after leading the NFL in rushing has happened in 22 of the past 25 seasons and paints a worrisome fantasy outlook for the league’s reigning rushing king. Many different factors can lead to a sudden dropoff. As my friend Gary Davenport first divulged in his Curse of 370 and revisited for 2025, heavy usage is a key contributor to predicting running back regression. Other variables like coaching changes, strength of schedule, supporting cast, and age also play a role. Before I take a deep dive back through the past 25 seasons, let’s recap all the running backs that have led the NFL in rushing this century and find some key takeaways. NFL Rushing Leaders 2000-2025 Over the past 25 seasons, 20 different running backs led the NFL in rushing yards. Only LaDainian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Ezekiel Elliott, and Derrick Henry have done it more than once. You could also doff your proverbial cap to Edgerrin James, who ascended the leaderboard in 1999, becoming the first player since Eric Dickerson (1983-1984) to lead the league in his first two pro campaigns. In all, league-leading backs averaged 340 carries for 1,716 rushing yards (4.98 yards per carry) and scored 15.7 total touchdowns. That averaged out to just under 349 fantasy points (PPR), or 21.9 points per game. The splits were 15 rushing champs from the AFC, while 10 represented the NFC. The NFC East produced five, while the NFC South is the only division that has not had an NFL rushing champ in the last 25 years, nor has there ever been one from that division. The Saints’ George Rogers led the league with 1,674 yards back in 1981, but New Orleans was then part of the NFC West. Leading the league in rushing is more than an individual honor. Coaching, schemes, quarterbacking, and the offensive line all play a pivotal role. There are also numerous other elements that play a role in a team’s ability to manufacture a rushing leader. Contributing Factors for Success Health One of the most important factors for posting big numbers is staying healthy. From 2000-2015, no running back who led the league in rushing missed a single game. Even the backs who missed one were rested by their team in the season finale. Derrick Henry is the only running back in the last 25 years to lead the league in rushing but miss a game due to injury. Henry missed Week 16 of the 2019 season with a hamstring injury and returned to action in the season finale to rush for a season-high 211 yards to top the league. Every other running back in the past 25 seasons to lead the league in rushing has stayed healthy for every game or sat out the regular-season finale to rest for the playoffs. Winning Team Speaking of playoffs, teams that produced the leading rusher averaged 9.96 wins versus 6.2 losses, making the postseason in 18 of the 25 seasons (72%). However, only three of those teams made the Super Bowl, and the only squad to win is the reigning champions, the 2024 Philadelphia Eagles. Having a winning record also leads to more friendly game scripts for the rushing attack. Teams nursing second-half leads tend to rely on their lead backs to grind down the clock. Age The wear and tear that NFL running backs accumulate takes a toll. 20 of the 25 (80%) rushing leaders were under 28 entering the season in which they finished first. Looking at the averages, RBs had a mean age of 25.4 in those seasons. They also averaged 4.6 years of experience. Only two backs (Curtis Martin in 2004, Adrian Peterson in 2015) were older than 28. No rusher who was 29 when the season started has led the NFL in rushing since Barry Sanders did it back in 1997. NFL RUSHING LEADER AGE DISTRIBUTION AGE OCCURANCES RATE 21-23 6 24% 24-26 10 40% 27-28 7 28% 29+ 2 8% Skill Set & Fantasy Production Volume is king in fantasy, and rushers who accumulate enough touches to post elite numbers are typically three-down workhorses. 24 of the 25 RBs posted top-5 fantasy finishes. The only back who did not, Adrian Peterson in 2008, caught only 21 passes for 125 yards in 16 games. In the other 24 seasons tracked, running backs averaged 44 receptions annually. Derrick Henry is an outlier, but part of the formula for RB success in today’s high-octane NFL is to stay on the field on passing downs. However, the inability to do just that, stay on the field, is one of the main reasons we see noteworthy running back regression the year after they lead the league in rushing yards. Immediate Regression in the Next Season While winning a rushing crown is a notable accomplishment for a pro running back, there is usually a staggering dropoff in play the following season. 88% have seen an immediate dip in effectiveness, and it is usually a significant decline. Only three running backs since the 2000 season have posted better fantasy numbers the year after they led the NFL in rushing yards. As for the other 22, they averaged a 36.8% decline in fantasy points the following season. Notable Declines Running backs have always been a hot commodity on draft day. Particularly three-down workhorse backs coming off a rushing crown who finished the previous campaign at an average rank of RB 2.76. But fantasy draft history is loaded with first-round RB busts who stumbled after they broke out the previous season. Running Backs who led the league in rushing in 2000-2024 finished as the RB 2.7 in PPR leagues, but plummeted to an average of RB22.3 the following season.
Dynasty Fantasy Football | 3 Underrated Running Backs

Dynasty Fantasy Football: Chase Brown Leads Trio of RB Values As the 2025 NFL Draft looms, pinpointing running backs overlooked in early ADP rankings could be the key to fantasy football glory. Post-free agency, the excitement is palpable in Dynasty Leagues at the Fantasy Football World Championships (FFWC). Now is the perfect time to join the fun with Dynasty Fantasy Football! Before your dynasty fantasy football draft kicks off, here are three running backs ranked outside the top 30 in ADP, emerging as prime value picks for 2025. This feature is courtesy of Frank Taddeo. Chase Brown (RB) Cincinnati Bengals Brown burst onto the scene last year, securing the RB10 spot in PPR leagues. When veteran Zack Moss landed on IR with a season-ending neck injury, Brown excelled as the primary back. He ranked as the overall RB6 from Week 8 to Week 18, averaging 19.6 fantasy points per game. In only his second NFL season, the ex-Illinois star dazzled with his versatility, rushing for 990 yards and seven touchdowns. He also caught 54 passes for 360 yards and four additional scores. Playing alongside Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, Brown’s 2025 potential skyrockets as defenses can’t focus solely on stopping the run against Cincinnati’s dynamic passing game. Comparable to elite backs like Saquon Barkley, Bijan Robinson, and Jahmyr Gibbs, Brown’s current RB2 valuation makes him a steal in both Dynasty and Redraft formats. He’s a prime mid-round target in early 2025 rankings, with the potential to deliver RB1 numbers. Jaylen Warren (RB) Pittsburgh Steelers With Najee Harris now a Charger, Warren currently reigns atop the Steelers’ depth chart ahead of the NFL Draft. In 2024, Warren ended as RB39, averaging 8.3 PPR points per game. Yet, a closer look shows he was RB23 from Week 11 to Week 18, hinting at his ability to post double-digit points with more opportunities. Sporting an ADP of RB28, this dual-threat talent shapes up as a solid RB2/Flex option with increased touches. Fantasy managers should monitor the Steelers’ draft moves closely—if they snag a top running back prospect, Warren’s ceiling could dip in Arthur Smith’s run-centric system, pushing his draft stock from mid-rounds (Rounds 6-7) to later rounds (Rounds 10+). Bucky Irving (RB) Tampa Bay Buccaneers Irving, finishing as RB13 in his rookie year, proved a fantasy steal for those who nabbed him with late-round picks. The former Oregon star racked up 1,122 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns, plus 47 catches for 392 yards, averaging 14.4 PPR points per game. Even with a carry split alongside Rachaad White (207 to 144), Irving shone brightest late in the fantasy season, ranking as RB6 from Week 12 to Week 18 with an 18.3-point average. Per Caleb Skinner of OnSI Tampa Bay, a potential trade of White could vault Irving into the top-5 fantasy running backs. That is despite Sean Tucker lurking on the depth chart. His dual-threat prowess makes him a dynasty league gem and a strong redraft target at his current RB10 ADP. The 2025 NFL season is underway, but it’s not too late to access the best help out there! All FullTime Fantasy members get exclusive access to our 24/7 Chat Room on Discord! All morning on Sunday, Senior Analyst Jody Smith will be standing by to answer all your crucial fantasy questions and keep you updated with all the latest news and injury updates. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST! GET THE LATEST ARTICLES & UPDATES Subscribe to our FREE newsletter – Breaking Fantasy news & site updates! Like and share our new Facebook page! Be sure to pay attention to our giveaways for your shot at some sweet prizes!
Top Remaining NFL Free Agents

Top Remaining NFL Free Agents at QB, RB, WR, and TE We saw some fantasy-relevant players sign on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL free-agent signing period. However, there are still several top remaining NFL free agents available according to our 2025 Free Agent Tracker. Here are some of the top NFL free agents for fantasy football fans to monitor on Day 3 and beyond. Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers 2024 Stats (Projected): 3,500 yards, 28 TDs, 11 INTs, 64% completion rate, ~200 rushing yards (based on partial season data and historical performance). Rodgers played 2024 with the Jets, posting decent numbers (28 TDs per X posts) despite a rocky year and an announced split from the team. His stats reflect a decline from his peak but still show competence. Why He’s Top: At 41, Rodgers remains the biggest name among QBs, outranking Sam Darnold (signed with Seattle Day 1) and others like Justin Fields (Jets). His experience and arm talent make him a short-term starter option. Potential Fits: Tennessee Titans: With Will Levis struggling (hypothetical 2024 struggles assumed), Rodgers could stabilize the offense, mentoring Levis or a rookie. The Titans have $30M+ in cap space and need a QB bridge. The New York Giants are also interested in signing Rodgers. With the staff playing for their jobs, that makes sense. Additionally, Rodgers to Malik Nabers is intriguing. Analysis: Rodgers’ market may be tepid due to age and off-field drama, but his 2024 TD total suggests he can still produce. Teams needing a stopgap will bid, though retirement looms if interest wanes. Running Back: Nick Chubb 2024 Stats (Projected): 163 yards, 3.1 YPC, 2 TDs in 7 games (per SI.com, reflecting his return from a 2023 knee injury). Chubb returned in Week 7 of 2024 but struggled behind a poor Browns O-line, averaging a career-low 3.1 YPC. His 2022 peak (1,525 yards, 12 TDs) shows his upside when healthy. Potential Fits: Pittsburgh Steelers: If Jaylen Warren is tendered and Najee Harris walks (per PFF), Chubb could pair with Warren in a bruising backfield. Mike Tomlin’s admiration for Chubb (noted by PFF) aligns with their run-first identity. Dallas Cowboys: Seeking a downhill runner for Dak Prescott (per PFN), Chubb’s name value and 4.9 career YPC fit Jerry Jones’ splashy style. Cap space (~$20M post-Prescott extension) allows a prove-it deal. Analysis: Chubb’s 2024 was a shadow of his prime, but another offseason could restore his explosiveness. He’s a high-risk, high-reward RB2 for teams betting on a rebound. Wide Receiver: Stefon Diggs 2024 Stats (Projected): 45 catches, 600 yards, 5 TDs in 8 games (per The Athletic, pre-ACL tear in Week 8 with Houston). Diggs started 2024 as Buffalo’s WR2 before a trade to Houston, where he was solid but not dominant (7.4 points/game per PlayerProfiler) until his season-ending injury. His 16.3 YPC career average persists. With Tee Higgins tagged and Amari Cooper/Keenan Allen still available, Diggs edges out due to his WR1 pedigree, despite his age (31) and injury. Potential Fits: New York Jets: Needing a WR2 behind Garrett Wilson (per PFN), Diggs could thrive with Justin Fields as the new QB. His route-running fits their intermediate passing game, and cap space (~$25M) works. Kansas City Chiefs: With DeAndre Hopkins gone, Diggs complements Xavier Worthy’s speed with savvy underneath work. Mahomes elevates his ceiling, and KC has ~$30M in cap flexibility. Houston Texans: A return to Houston also makes sense. Despite the club trading for Christian Kirk and signing other wideouts, the Texans are missing a stand-out WR2. Therefore, a reunion makes sense on both sides. Analysis: Diggs’ ACL recovery timeline (likely ready by camp) and declining WR1 status make him a WR2/3 in fantasy, but his fit with elite QBs could revive his 1,000-yard potential. Tight End: Evan Engram 2024 Stats (Projected): 40 catches, 450 yards, 3 TDs in 8 games (per The Athletic, pre-shoulder surgery in late 2024). Engram missed half of 2024 with a torn labrum, leading to his Jaguars release to avoid a $19.5M cap hit. His 2023 peak (114 catches, 963 yards) shows his upside as a receiving TE. With Juwan Johnson and Mike Gesicki already signed, Engram’s the top TE left. His injury and age (31 by September) lower his stock, but his YAC ability (per The Athletic) stands out in a thin class. Potential Fits: Indianapolis Colts: With Mo Alie-Cox expiring (per PFF), Engram aids Anthony Richardson’s growth as a safety blanket. His 71.3 PFF receiving grade in 2024 fits Shane Steichen’s TE-friendly scheme (~$35M cap space). Denver Broncos: Sean Payton, who coached Engram’s Saints teammate Juwan Johnson, could target him for the starting role. Engram’s speed stretches defenses, and Denver has $43M in cap room (per ESPN). Analysis: Engram’s not a TE1 lock post-injury. But his 9.0-yard average depth of target (per PFF) makes him a mid-tier fantasy TE with upside in pass-heavy systems. A short-term deal is likely. Additional Notes Market Context: Day 1 saw 59 of the top 150 free agents sign (per The Athletic), leaving slim pickings at offensive skill positions. Rodgers, Chubb, Diggs, and Engram stand out as the best remaining at their spots based on X sentiment and web rankings. Stats Caveats: 2024 projections are based on partial data (e.g., Chubb’s 7 games, Diggs’ 8 games) and historical norms, as full-season stats aren’t finalized in sources. Fits Rationale: Teams were chosen based on cap space (per Spotrac/ESPN), QB/coaching stability, and scheme fit (e.g., PFF’s scheme notes), assuming 2024 roster gaps persist. The 2025 NFL season is just getting started and it’s time to get access to the best help out there! All FullTime Fantasy members get exclusive access to our 24/7 Chat Room on Discord! All morning on Sunday, Senior Analyst Jody Smith will be standing by to answer all your crucial start/sit and keep you updated with all the latest news and injury updates. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST! GET THE LATEST ARTICLES AND UPDATES Subscribe to our FREE newsletter – Breaking Fantasy news & site updates! Like and share our new Facebook page!
2025 NFL Free Agents: Running Backs

2025 NFL Free Agent Movement: Running Backs In fantasy football, there is no offseason. Before the NFL finalizes its year, fantasy football fans are preparing for the next draft season. That is especially true in dynasty football. Part of good preparation is knowing about the upcoming crop of NFL free agents. The draft can dramatically shake rosters. However, free agency begins in March and is the first major “new” season event. Therefore, it is important to note which veterans are signing and how that could impact the upcoming NFL draft. Next up in FullTime Fantasy‘s free agent analysis, we break down the 2025 NFL Free Agents: Running Backs. Also, check out our Free Agents: Quarterbacks. Player Pos. 2024 Team 2025 Team Type Age 2024 Salary Aaron Jones RB Vikings Vikings UFA 31 $7,000,000 Miles Sanders RB Panthers Cowboys UFA 28 $4,020,000 Najee Harris RB Steelers Chargers UFA 27 $3,261,861 A.J. Dillon RB Packers Eagles UFA 27 $2,742,500 Nick Chubb RB Browns UFA 30 $2,275,000 Gus Edwards RB Chargers UFA 30 $2,250,000 Javonte Williams RB Broncos Cowboys UFA 25 $2,216,439 Raheem Mostert RB Dolphins Raiders UFA 33 $3,692,353 Travis Homer RB Bears Bears UFA 27 $2,000,000 Alexander Mattison RB Raiders Dolphins UFA 27 $2,000,000 Ameer Abdullah RB Raiders Raiders UFA 32 $1,850,000 Jeff Wilson RB Dolphins UFA 30 $1,750,000 J.K. Dobbins RB Chargers UFA 27 $1,610,000 Samaje Perine RB Chiefs Bengals UFA 30 $1,500,000 Dare Ogunbowale RB Texans Texans UFA 31 $1,500,000 Chase Edmonds RB Buccaneers UFA 29 $1,500,000 Nyheim Hines RB Browns UFA 29 $1,495,000 JaMycal Hasty RB Patriots UFA 29 $1,450,000 Ty Johnson RB Bills Bills UFA 28 $1,292,500 D’Ernest Johnson RB Jaguars UFA 29 $1,275,000 Rico Dowdle RB Cowboys Panthers UFA 27 $1,255,000 Kareem Hunt RB Chiefs Chiefs UFA 30 $1,210,000 Cam Akers RB Vikings UFA 26 $1,175,000 Mike Boone RB Panthers UFA 30 $1,125,000 Jeremy McNichols RB Commanders Commanders UFA 30 $1,125,000 Trayveon Williams RB Bengals UFA 28 $1,125,000 Joshua Kelley RB Titans UFA 28 $1,125,000 Craig Reynolds RB Lions Lions RFA 29 $1,125,000 D’Onta Foreman RB Browns UFA 29 $1,125,000 Kene Nwangwu RB Jets Jets UFA 27 $1,055,000 Trey Sermon RB Colts UFA 26 $1,055,000 Darrynton Evans RB Bears Bills UFA 27 $1,055,000 John Kelly RB Browns RFA 29 $1,055,000 Patrick Taylor RB 49ers 49ers UFA 27 $1,055,000 Julius Chestnut RB Titans Titans RFA 25 $985,000 Raheem Blackshear RB Panthers RFA 27 $985,000 Ronnie Rivers RB Rams Rams RFA 26 $985,000 Kenneth Gainwell RB Eagles Steelers UFA 26 $953,881 Avery Williams RB Falcons Eagles UFA 27 $930,038 Elijah Mitchell RB 49ers Chiefs UFA 27 $915,893 Chris Rodriguez Jr. RB Commanders ERFA 26 $915,000 Emanuel Wilson RB Packers ERFA 26 $915,000 Chris Evans RB Bengals UFA 28 $913,222 Khalil Herbert RB Bengals Colts UFA 27 $902,676 Jaylen Warren RB Steelers RFA 27 $857,333 Jordan Mason RB 49ers Vikings (via trade) RFA 26 $853,333 Owen Wright RB Ravens ERFA 26 $795,000 Ellis Merriweather RB Packers SFA 26 $256,667 Patrick Richard FB Ravens Ravens UFA 31 $3,750,000 Reggie Gilliam FB Bills Bills UFA 28 $2,300,000 Michael Burton FB Broncos Broncos UFA 33 $1,210,000 Adam Prentice FB Saints UFA 28 $1,130,000 Kristian Welch FB Ravens UFA 27 $1,125,000 Jakob Johnson FB Giants Texans UFA 31 $1,125,000 Robert Burns FB Falcons UFA 27 $795,000 Aaron Jones stayed healthy and finished as the RB19 in fantasy points per game. However, his efficiency has declined for three straight seasons and he’s nearing the end. UPDATE: Jones re-signed with the Vikings for two years. Najee Harris has been a consistent producer but lacks the three-down upside to attract a top-ten RB deal. He’ll have suitors but could easily wind up back in a timeshare with a rookie. Speaking of timeshare situations, Javonte Williams will look to move to a team that will allow him to be a lead back. Sean Payton is firmly committed to a rotation, so expect Williams to test the market. If he re-signs in Denver, Williams’s fantasy value takes a hit. J.K. Dobbins made the most of his one-year ‘prove it’ deal in Los Angeles. However, with a checked injury history, Dobbins will be viewed as a mid-level option as the potential lead in a rotational backfield. If he lands in an offense that is poised to cash in a bunch of short-yardage opportunities, Dobbins has middle-round fantasy value appeal. Position Grade: 2/10 The 2025 NFL season is starting and you can get access to the best help out there! All FullTime Fantasy members get exclusive access to our 24/7 Chat Room on Discord! All morning on Sunday, Senior Analyst Jody Smith will be standing by to answer all your crucial start/sit and keep you updated with all the latest news and injury updates. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST! GET THE LATEST ARTICLES AND UPDATES Subscribe to our FREE newsletter – Breaking Fantasy news & site updates! Like and share our new Facebook page! Be sure to pay attention to our giveaways for your shot at some sweet prizes!
Week 15 Sleepers & Emerging Players

Week 15 Sleepers, Potential-Emergent Players, and Opportunistic Plays This article is contributed by Brad Kruse This column is NOT intended to provide Week 15 Waiver Wire claims lists. Instead, the purpose is to look at young players whose opportunity could emerge and should be monitored. I will also look at potential injury replacement players, but I will try not to focus on the obvious choices for this week’s slate of games as that is covered elsewhere on the sight. My goal is to help look around corners for the season which might give ideas for pre-emptive adds to your roster with Week 15 Sleepers & Emerging Players. This week, I will focus exclusively on the young receivers and review their performance using targets per route run and yards per route run metrics. The list below must include a minimum of ten targets. Young Breakout Receivers (through Week 14) The above table looks at all first and second-year WRs with at least 15% targets per route run (TPRR) and 1.5 yards per route run (YPRR) through ten weeks this year. Below are comments on players who stood out in Week 13. Second Year Players Puka Nacua: Nacua again is at the top of the list for first or second-year players. He collected twelve receptions on 14 targets for 162 yards and a touchdown. That was good for 41.8 fantasy points, 56% targets per route run (TPRR), and 6.5 yards per route run (YPRR). He is at the top of the list in YTD TPRR and YPRR rankings with 38% and 3.6 respectively. Dontayvion Wicks: Wicks was an efficiency darling in 2023 but has had a difficult sophomore campaign. However, he was very efficient on his 18 routes this week. He collected five targets resulting in four receptions for 49 yards and no touchdowns. That was good for a 28% TPRR and 2.7 YPRR. His utilization has declined, but if he could get full-time usage with that efficiency, he would return to relevance. Quentin Johnston: Johnston put up another solid week in his bounce-back season. Johnston earned seven targets for five receptions and 79 scoreless yards. That resulted in 26% TPRR and 1.8 YPRR. For the season, Johnston has 21% TPRR and 1.7 YPRR. Those are right at the numbers needed to build on to become a strong receiver in a full-time role. Jordan Addison: Addison was one of the stars this week. He was a big part of a heavy pass attack. His fantasy day was helped by a couple of short-yardage touchdowns. But you cannot argue with his earning twelve targets resulting in eight receptions for 133 yards and three touchdowns. That brought his YTD performance to 21% TPRR and 2.2 YPRR. Jaxon Smith-Njigba: Smith-Njigba is putting up fantasy numbers weekly at this point. His efficiency was mixed as he caught all five of his targets for 82 yards and one touchdown. That was a 19% TPRR and 3.2 YPRR performance on the week. That brought his YTD performance to 22% TPRR and 2.0 YPRR. He is another bounce-back first round receiver from 2023. Rookies Brian Thomas: Thomas is always dangerous. This week he earned twelve targets and caught eight of them for 86 yards. That resulted in a 36% TPRR and 2.6 YPRR. Both of those metrics are strong. During the year, Thomas earned 24% TPRR and 2.4 YPRR. He is another strong receiver from this rookie class. Malik Nabers: Nabers played through another questionable tag as he battles his nagging groin injury. But, for the week, he earned 10 targets resulting in five receptions for 79 yards. He put in somewhat of a floor day with 20% TPRR and 1.6 YPRR bringing his YTD performance to 30% TPRR and 2.0 YPRR. His numbers have decayed over the weeks. He is still a very consistent performer, but his explosive games have eluded him of late. However, that could improve with Tommy DeVito back under center. Jalen McMillan: McMillan has been quiet for most of the year, but he jumped out this week with four receptions on seven targets for 59 yards and two touchdowns. That resulted in a 26% TPRR and 2.2 YPRR. He needs to continue this performance for us to buy into it being a breakout, but he deserves mention for the solid week. ENTER OUR WEEK 15 DRAFT CONTEST! How it Works: First, you draft your team using our On-Demand Simulator. Next, try to stack the team with players you think will do well this week. Finally, the highest Week 15 Score wins. (PLUS: You get to see the Thursday Night game and then draft!) Here’s our Week 15 Player Rankings to help. First, it’s a best-ball contest, so no need to submit a lineup. We’ll optimize the best one. Secondly, you just sit back and watch your team climb the leaderboard. Weekly Prizes and a Grand Prize at the end of the season! Finally, the Grand Prize Winner (highest individual week of the season) gets to choose from the amazing prizes below. If you don’t know just how awesome and amazing the Panini Flawless Football briefcase is, make sure and watch the video starting at the 8-minute mark! Trading cards are back! MEMBER PERK! Fulltime Members get 5 Free On-Demand Drafts each month in our contest! DRAFT YOUR WEEK 15 TEAM and enter your REDEMPTION CODE you received by email.
Target & Touch Leaders Week 14

Target & Touch Leaders Week 14 Opportunity is everything in fantasy football. It is integral to look beyond the box score to see what players are earning crucial targets and touches. Our Target & Touch Leaders Week 14 breaks down
Week 14 Sleepers & Emerging Players

Week 14 Sleepers, Potential-Emergent Players, and Opportunistic Plays This article is contributed by Brad Kruse This column is NOT intended to provide Week 14 Waiver Wire claims lists. Instead, the purpose is to look at young players whose opportunity could emerge and should be monitored. I will also look at potential injury replacement players, but I will try not to focus on the obvious choices for this week’s slate of games as that is covered elsewhere on the sight. My goal is to help look around corners for the season which might give ideas for pre-emptive adds to your roster. This week I will focus exclusively on the young receivers and review how they have performed using targets per route run and yards per route run metrics. A minimum of ten targets is required to be included in the list below. Young Breakout Receivers (through Week 13) The above table looks at all first and second-year WRs that have at least 15% targets per route run (TPRR) and 1.5 Yards per route run (YPRR) through ten weeks this year. Below are comments on players who stood out in Week 13. Second-Year Players Puka Nacua: Nacua continues to be a star as he recorded a 38% targets per route run (TPRR) performance this week while collecting five receptions on eight targets for 56 yards and a touchdown. For the year, which gives him 35% TPRR and 3.2 yards per route run (YPRR). He is an elite performer. Parker Washington: Washington deserves mention this week with twelve targets and six receptions for 103 yards and one touchdown. That is a 31% TPRR and 3.2 YPRR score. For the year, Washington has only recorded a 16% TPRR and 1.2 YPRR. As a predominantly low average depth of target (aDOT) receiver, his yards aren’t typically as strong as his target share. Rookies Ladd McConkey: McConkey was truly a star in a low-volume attack. He collected twelve targets recording nine receptions for 117 scoreless yards. That represented a 48% TPRR and 4.7 YPRR. That moves his YTD performance to 25% TPRR and 2.5 YPRR. He has been one of the top-performing rookies this year, if not the top. Brian Thomas: Thomas is always dangerous. This week he earned ten targets and caught four of them for 76 yards and a touchdown. That was worth a 28% TPRR and 2.1 YPRR. Both of those metrics are solid despite the low catch rate. During the year, Thomas has earned a 23% TPRR and 2.4 YPRR. He is another strong receiver from this rookie class. Malik Nabers: Nabers is another frequently mentioned receiver in this column. This week he caught eight of his thirteen targets for 69 scoreless yards. That was good for a 36% TPRR and 1.9 YPRR. He is not found the endzone as much as his fantasy owners would like with only three touchdowns this year. However, his YTD 32% TPRR and 2.0 YPRR still are great performances for a rookie. He will again be a high draft pick next year in fantasy drafts. Xavier Worthy: Worthy gets a mention this week as he is starting to figure more into the Chief’s offense. He earned seven targets resulting in five receptions for 54 yards. That represented a 21% TPRR and 1.6 YPRR. He has not had the rookie season many fantasy managers envisioned. His season total of 17% TPRR and 1.2 YPRR still makes him a difficult start each week. ENTER OUR WEEK 14 DRAFT CONTEST! How it Works: First, you draft your team using our On-Demand Simulator. Next, try to stack the team with players you think will do well this week. Finally, the highest Week 14 Score wins. (PLUS: You get to see the Thursday Night game and then draft!) Here’s our Week 14 Player Rankings to help. First, it’s a best-ball contest, so no need to submit a lineup. We’ll optimize the best one. Secondly, you just sit back and watch your team climb the leaderboard. Weekly Prizes and a Grand Prize at the end of the season! Finally, the Grand Prize Winner (highest individual week of the season) gets to choose from the amazing prizes below. If you don’t know just how awesome and amazing the Panini Flawless Football briefcase is, make sure and watch the video starting at the 8-minute mark! Trading cards are back! MEMBER PERK! Fulltime Members get 5 Free On-Demand Drafts each month in our contest! DRAFT YOUR WEEK 14 TEAM and enter your REDEMPTION CODE you received by email.
Target & Touch Leaders Week 13

Target & Touch Leaders Week 13 Opportunity is everything in fantasy football. Looking beyond the box score to see what players are earning crucial targets and touches is integral. Our Target & Touch Leaders Week 13 breaks down those opportunities
Week 13 Sleepers & Emerging Players

Week 13 Sleepers, Potential-Emergent Players, and Opportunistic Plays This article is contributed by Brad Kruse This column is NOT intended to provide Week 13 waiver claims lists. Instead, the purpose is to look at young players whose opportunity could emerge and should be monitored. I will also look at potential injury replacement players, but I will try not to focus on the obvious choices for this week’s slate of games as that is covered elsewhere on the sight. My goal is to help look around corners for the season which might give some ideas for pre-emptive adds to your roster with Week 13 Sleepers & Emerging Players. This week I’ll focus exclusively on the young receivers and review how they’ve performed using targets per route run and yards per route run metrics. A minimum of ten targets is required to be included in the list below. Young Breakout Receivers (through Week 12) The above table looks at all first and second-year WRs who have at least 15% targets per route run (TPRR) and 1.5 Yards per route run (YPRR) through ten weeks this year. Below are some comments on players who stood out in Week 12. Second-Year Players Jordan Addison: Addison turned in a huge week collecting eight receptions for 162 yards and one touchdown. He did this on nine targets and earned a 25% targets per route run (TPRR) and an incredible 4.5 yards per route run (YPRR). For the year, Addison earned a respectable 20% TPRR and 2.1 YPRR. Puka Nacua: Nacua continues to deliver for fantasy teams. He recorded 37% TPRR and 3.3 YPRR this week. He caught nine balls for 1117 yards scoreless yards. For the year, Nacua has recorded 35% TPRR and 3.2 YPRR over his six-game sample. Demario Douglas: Douglas had a useable week catching six balls for 62 yards. That amounted to 22% TPRR and 1.9 YPRR. For the year, he’s recorded a 22% TPRR and 1.6 YPRR. He’s a fringe start decision each week as a flex and an excellent bye-week replacement. Quentin Johnston: Johnston only caught two of eight targets, but did get 48 yards and a touchdown to salvage his fantasy day. He’s averaging 12 ppg which is a solid bounce back from a difficult rookie campaign. Additionally, he also collected a 21% TPRR and a 2.1 YPRR on the year. He appears to be a piece of the rebuilding receiving room for the Chargers. Rookies Ladd McConkey: McConkey played on Monday night, so the route data isn’t available at the time of this writing, but he continues to look like the top option in the passing game. Devaughn Vele: Vele is getting used more by the Broncos and has demonstrated an ability to earn targets for Bo Nix. This week he caught six of nine targets for 80 yards giving him a 41% TPRR and 3.6 YPRR for the week. For the year, he’s collecting 24% TPRR and 2.1 YPRR. Malik Nabers: This wasn’t a peak Nabers performance week. He caught six of nine targets for 64 yards. That equated to a 24% TPRR and a 1.7 YPRR. That brings his YTD performance to 31% TPRR and 2.0 YPRR. Rome Odunze: Odunze didn’t enjoy the fantasy day of his fellow receivers. However, he earned 10 targets, catching five of them for 39 yards. The offense shows some signs of improvement, and Odunze is a full-time receiver for the Bears. He did manage a 22% TPRR this week for a woeful 0.8 YPRR. That brings his YTD metrics to 19% TPRR and 1.4 YPRR. ENTER OUR WEEK 13 DRAFT CONTEST! How it Works: First, you draft your team using our On-Demand Simulator. Next, try to stack the team with players you think will do well this week. Finally, the highest Week 13 Score wins. (PLUS: You get to see the Thursday Night game and then draft!) Here’s our Week 13 Player Rankings to help. First, it’s a best-ball contest, so no need to submit a lineup. We’ll optimize the best one. Secondly, you just sit back and watch your team climb the leaderboard. Weekly Prizes and a Grand Prize at the end of the season! Finally, the Grand Prize Winner (highest individual week of the season) gets to choose from the amazing prizes below. If you don’t know just how awesome and amazing the Panini Flawless Football briefcase is, make sure and watch the video starting at the 8-minute mark! Trading cards are back! MEMBER PERK! Fulltime Members get 5 Free On-Demand Drafts each month in our contest! DRAFT YOUR WEEK 13 TEAM and enter your REDEMPTION CODE you received by email.
Target & Touch Leaders Week 12

Target & Touch Leaders Week 12 Opportunity is everything in fantasy football. Looking beyond the box score to see what players are earning crucial targets and touches is integral. Our Target & Touch Leaders Week 12 breaks down those opportunities



