Are you searching for the next breakout running back in your fantasy draft? You’re in the right place.
At running back, opportunity is king. However, we’ll still be focusing on running backs who offer an ideal mix of athletic profile, production efficiency, and NFL opportunity. The rankings are based on our NPS Score, which evaluates players against top NFL running backs’ attributes coming out of college. Here are my top 10 rookie running backs for 2024.
*For reference, CMC had a 9.00 NPS Grade coming out of college*
10. Ray Davis, Bills
NPS Grade: 7.36
NFL Comp: Lamar Miller
Davis displayed impressive production at Kentucky, showing a blend of power and speed. His ability to handle a substantial workload and his solid college performance make him an intriguing prospect.
Advice: Consider Davis as a low-end flex. He likely will not be drafted in most leagues. As the backup to James Cook in Buffalo, he could see opportunity and vault to starter in all formats if Cook is injured.
9. MarShawn Lloyd, Packers
NPS Grade: 7.42
NFL Comp: Zak Moss
Lloyd brings a well-rounded skill set to the NFL with a blend of power and agility. Although he wasn’t the focal point at USC, his potential is evident in his ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver.
Advice: Draft Lloyd as a top-tier handcuff. He may have some flashes of brilliance, but with Josh Jacobs joining Green Bay this offseason, time will tell if he’s going to work in and eliminate his competition for the backup spot.
8. Rasheen Ali, Ravens
NPS Grade: 7.49
NFL Comp: Miles Sanders
Ali’s combination of size and speed makes him an intriguing prospect. He showcased his ability to handle a heavy workload at Marshall, but the transition to the NFL will test his durability and effectiveness.
Advice: Derrick Henry will be king in Baltimore, and Ali is buried on the depth chart. It will take a lot for his opportunity to happen. He’s best left on the waivers, even though I like his athletic profile and NCAA production.
7. Audric Estime, Broncos
NPS Grade: 7.69
NFL Comp: James Conner
Estime combines power and agility, making him a tough runner between the tackles. His production at Notre Dame was impressive, and he has the potential to carve out a significant role in an NFL offense.
Advice: Draft Estime as a potential flex option. His ability to handle a substantial workload could lead to solid fantasy contributions.
6. Trey Benson, Cardinals
NPS Grade: 7.71
NFL Comp: Brian Robinson Jr.
Benson’s explosive running style and pass-catching ability make him an exciting prospect. He excelled at Florida State, and if he lands in a situation that maximizes his skills, he could become a significant fantasy asset.
Advice: Benson’s opportunity is great. While Conner is the lead back, he hasn’t been healthy for a full season in some time. Benson will already be getting work with Conner healthy, so he’s a low-end flex. If Conner gets hurt, Benson vaults into a RB2 role.
5. Jase McClellan, Falcons
NPS Grade: 7.72
NFL Comp: JK Dobbins
McClellan’s versatility and productivity at Alabama have set him up for success in the NFL. His ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver adds to his appeal. He’s well-positioned to make an immediate impact.
Advice: He shouldn’t be drafted due to sitting 3rd on the depth chart behind Bijan and Allgeier.
4. Blake Corum, Rams
NPS Grade: 7.83
NFL Comp: Aaron Jones
Corum’s combination of power and speed made him a dominant force at Michigan. His compact build and ability to break tackles set him up for success in the NFL. He has the potential to be a feature back in the right system.
Advice: He’s a late round pick as a handcuff. Corum is in a tough spot. He’s a great talent in a great offense. But his ceiling may be capped due to Kyren Williams. If they split time, he’s viable in a low-end flex. His high potential and college production make him a strong fantasy candidate.
3. Will Shipley, Eagles
NPS Grade: 7.84
NFL Comp: Kareem Hunt
My surprise of this draft class. I believe he’ll take over for Gainwell on passing situations for the Eagles this year. His ability to contribute to the passing game, combined with solid rushing numbers, makes him a standout prospect. His versatility could be a significant asset to the Eagles and could help them preserve Barkley for a playoff run.
Advice: Shipley shouldn’t be drafted in standard leagues. He’s a waiver wire target should he get increased playing time later in the season.
2. Bucky Irving, Buccaneers
NPS Grade: 7.90
NFL Comp: James Cook
Irving’s agility and pass-catching ability make him a dynamic option in the backfield. He excelled at Oregon, showing an ability to change the game with his quickness and vision. His skill set translates well to the NFL.
Advice: Consider Irving as a late-round flier. His versatility and playmaking ability could be a major asset for your fantasy team. If he splits time with White, he’s a flex play, with RB2 upside if White gets injured.
1. Jonathon Brooks, Panthers
NPS Grade: 8.12
NFL Comp: David Johnson
Jonathon Brooks stands out as the top rookie running back with his exceptional blend of size, speed, and production. His impressive ratings underscore his effectiveness. Brooks’ exceptional combination of size, speed, and versatile performance makes him a top fantasy prospect and poised to make a significant impact in the NFL.
Advice: Draft Brooks as a mid-round RB2. His potential to be a top fantasy running back is high, making him a prime target for your team. The Panthers will likely ease him into the offense due to his injury, and he’ll take over later in the season.