Targets and goal-line carries are the lifeblood of quality fantasy production for the running back position. The starting role and receiving a high volume of carries are nice, but not near the end zone makes those touches empty-calorie opportunities. In short, they do not mean much. However, being a starter and high-volume back generally points to receiving more targets and goal-line chances for high fantasy-scoring plays. This weekly feature analyzes all 32 NFL depth charts for underrated and overrated running backs.
Note: See the table of all teams' HLO rankings at the bottom of this article.
The Good
Browns
Cleveland proved Week 1 was not a fluke, posting the No.3 HLO score of Week 2. Joe Flacco is a target maker for the running back position, plus Cleveland is No.2 in goal-line carries early this season. Quinshon Judkins is the rising player, debuting with 50% rushing share in Week 2 and bound to increase in future weeks. Dylan Sampson and Jerome Ford have both been involved in the passing game. The key will be how much of this elite HLO pie is split between multiple Cleveland backs going forward.
Broncos
Death, taxes, and Sean Payton with strong HLO teams. This year is no exception, with No.7 and No.4 finishes already on the season. RJ Harvey did not elevate his share of the backfield in Week 2, so the rookie is still in simmer mode. J.K. Dobbins has not had a high route share either to temper both of their upside ranges. This is a must-monitor depth chart for a consolidated role in future weeks, as the upside for a strong RB1 in fantasy is present.
Giants
Only three teams have finished higher than No.10 in HLO each of the first two weeks, and the Giants are one of them. Cam Skattebo also seized the starting role from Tyrone Tracy Jr. in Week 2 to clarify the pecking order for future weeks. Still keep Tracy rostered in case Skattebo misses time. Skattebo has top-12 upside considering the Giants are No.6 in running back targets.
