The preseason is complete and there are plenty of running back depth chart takeaways around the NFL. Here are the notable clarity and upside category scores for all 32 teams:
Starter Injuries
Nick Chubb is on IR to begin the season, locking in at least four games missed. Cleveland notably added D'Onta Foreman this offseason for depth, and Jerome Ford played projects as the Week 1 starter with Chubb's absence. Pierre Strong Jr is a sneaky injury-away option to begin the season and is available in most leagues.
Christian McCaffrey is on the lowest level of monitoring for Week 1. His calf injury is not considered a serious threat to his regular season availability (yet). McCaffrey has said he would be playing if it were a regular game week.
Jonathon Brooks is a projected starter as the season develops but will have a ramp-up period (which may include being inactive to begin the season) for Carolina. Chuba Hubbard is the locked-in replacement as needed, with Miles Sanders the de facto RB2 until Brooks' role grows.
High Clarity, High Upside
RB2, Biggest Benefactor Listed
- Lions: David Montgomery
- Steelers: Jaylen Warren
- Dolphins: De'Von Achane
- Bengals: Zack Moss
- Patriots: Antonio Gibson
- Seahawks: Zach Charbonnet
- Falcons: Tyler Allgeier
- Titans: Tyjae Spears
- Bills: Ray Davis
- Vikings: Ty Chandler
- Rams: Blake Corum
- 49ers: Jordan Mason
Wildcard running backs beyond the RB2 on the above depth charts include:
Jaylen Wright: More speed for Miami, starting the year as RB3/4, but a wildcard if Raheem Mostert specifically misses time. Notably, De'Von Achane started low on the depth chart a year ago.
