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 occurring away from the end zone makes those touches empty-calorie opportunities. In short, they do not mean much. However, being a starter and a high-volume back generally points to more targets and goal-line chances, which can lead to high-scoring fantasy 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
Patriots
New England had its best HLO finish of the season (fifth) in Week 12. Further optimism is the confirmation of TreVeyon Henderson remaining in the RB1 role even with Rhamondre Stevenson returning to the lineup. The Patriots are back up to 14th on the season in HLO after a midseason swoon down the board. The most significant piece of optimism is Henderson's big-play ability and quality market share within the offense during the most important fantasy weeks. Stevenson is still a valuable injury-away option even after relinquishing the starting role.
Ravens
The schedule has been (and continues to be) ideal for Baltimore to win the division. Lamar Jackson has been in a funk since returning from his hamstring injury, especially as a rushing option. Derrick Henry has enjoyed the best run of HLO performances by Baltimore this season, however, with the No.3 finish in Week 12 (after 8th and 7th the previous two weeks). Henry has had a few weeks of popping up with quality route shares and receiving bonus numbers this season. Expect a split between Keaton Mitchell (rushing-centric) and Justice Hill (receiving-centric) if Henry misses time down the stretch.
Raiders
Ashton Jeanty and the Raiders' offensive line have been one of the more frustrating fantasy situations of the season. The utilization, especially in the passing game, has insulated Jeanty's floor in recent weeks. The past month has included the Raiders' three best HLO finishes of the season. Previously near the bottom of the season-long rankings, Las Vegas is a respectable 22nd overall with its recent flourish. Monitor Jeanty's late-game ankle injury for his Week 13 status, but Jeanty still has elite upside in any single game with any help from his offensive line.