These 2017 Fantasy Football Running Back Rankings will be updated often throughout the spring and summer, so make sure you check back from time to time. Also, be sure to check out my other Fantasy Football Rankings articles, which will include sleepers, busts, tons of 2017 Fantasy Football mock drafts and other material. Follow me @walterfootball for updates.
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings - Running Backs (Sept. 6):
Top 10 | 11-20 | 21-40 | 41-75
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Eddie Lacy, RB, Seahawks. Bye: 6.
AUG. 19 UPDATE: Eddie Lacy started against the Vikings, but only because Thomas Rawls and C.J. Prosise were both sitting out. Lacy had a great run of nine where he spun around and burst forward with nice power, but he didn’t do much else. I saw a funny joke on Twitter where someone said that the Seahawks are ready to roll, while Lacy is looking like he’s ready for a dinner roll. Lacy was outplayed by fourth-string running back Chris Carson, and I’m wondering if Seattle is actually going to keep Lacy. Once again, Lacy is being drafted too early, as Rawls, Prosise and even Carson provide more value.
JUNE 5 UPDATE: Eddie Lacy is attempting to lose weight by doing the P90X 30-day challenge, per Gregg Bell, Tacoma News Tribune. It would be nice if Lacy stopped eating cheeseburgers, too. Lacy has weight conditions in his contract, so it’s possible that he could have a rebound season. However, he’ll be sharing touches with two other running backs, which is why he has a spot in my Fantasy Football Busts List.
Eddie Lacy was actually having a solid year prior to getting hurt, gaining 5.1 yards per carry in five games. Lacy didn’t find the end zone, however, and he’ll be running behind a far inferior offensive line in Seattle. Lacy’s weight will also be worth monitoring, as Seattle can cut him if he gains some extra pounds.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 630 rushing yards. 8 catches. 60 receiving yards. 6 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 125.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 133.
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Darren McFadden, RB, Cowboys. Bye: 6. 
Darren McFadden is the favorite to be the primary ball-carrier with Ezekiel Elliott out. Picking up DeAngelo Williams worked for people last year in the wake of Le’Veon Bell’s suspension, and like Williams, McFadden is an old running back who will benefit from a great offensive line.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 500 rushing yards. 30 catches. 200 receiving yards. 5 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 125.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 155.
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Danny Woodhead, RB, Ravens. Bye: 10. 
AUG. 24 UPDATE: Danny Woodhead has missed practice this week with a hamstring injury. Hamstrings tend to linger, and this is a reminder that Woodhead isn’t the most durable player in the NFL. His Week 1 status is unclear.
MAY 25 UPDATE: Danny Woodhead is practicing fully, per Ryan Mink, BaltimoreRavens.com. Woodhead tore his ACL in Week 2, but he appears to be completely recovered. He’ll be a nice PPR target as a big part of Baltimore’s offense. Remember, Kenneth Dixon is suspended for the first four games of the season.
Danny Woodhead had a great year for the Patriots in 2016. At least that’s what Jeff Fisher thinks, anyway. Woodhead actually got hurt in Week 2 when he tore his ACL. Woodhead has missed 27 games in the past three seasons, so he can’t be counted on to stay healthy. He’ll catch lots of passes from Joe Flacco in the meantime.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 290 rushing yards. 72 catches. 590 receiving yards. 6 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 124.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 196.
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Alvin Kamara, RB, Saints. Bye: 5. 
AUG. 21 UPDATE: The big play at the start of the Saints’ second preseason contest was Alvin Kamara’s 50-yard touchdown sprint. Kamara broke into the open field, thanks to Ryan Ramczyk’s block, and was gone. Kamara also added a 20-yard reception in the opening quarter. Kamara, who tallied 61 yards and a score on five attempts, is a special talent who will be a factor in the team’s passing attack. Adrian Peterson and Mark Ingram complicate things, but Kamara is worth drafting in the final few rounds – especially in PPR formats – because of his potential.
AUG. 12 UPDATE: With no Drew Brees, Adrian Peterson or Mark Ingram, Alvin Kamara had a chance to shine in his preseason debut. Kamara burst for a gain of 12 yards on his second carry, and then he broke out of a Tank Carder tackle to sprint downfield for a 22-yard rush. Kamara looked great in limited action – he gained 35 yards on four carries – and it’s going to be difficult for Sean Payton to keep him off the field.
Alvin Kamara will have to compete with Mark Ingram and Adrian Peterson for touches. That may make Kamara sound unappealing, but Ingram was benched last year for Tim Hightower, while Peterson looked decrepit when we last saw him. Kamara could be a big producer by the end of 2017, and he looks even better in dynasty/keeper formats.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 380 rushing yards. 41 catches. 350 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 122.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 163.
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Jeremy Hill, RB, Bengals. Bye: 6.
Jeremy Hill was dominant to close out the 2014 campaign, but has been extremely underwhelming since. He struggled in 2015, and he averaged just 3.8 yards per carry last year. Hill gained only 839 yards despite having the workload mostly to himself at the end of the year. He does have 21 total touchdowns the past two seasons, but scores can be very fluky, so relying on them isn’t the best idea. The Bengals also drafted Joe Mixon, who will eat into Hill’s workload.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 650 rushing yards. 15 catches. 100 receiving yards. 7 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 122.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 137.
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Theo Riddick, RB, Lions. Bye: 7.
Theo Riddick was sorely missed at the end of the year, as Matthew Stafford didn’t have his safety valve. Riddick caught 53 passes in 2016 in just 10 games, and he logged 80 receptions the year before. He’s a solid flex option in PPR leagues.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 300 rushing yards. 72 catches. 610 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 115.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 187.
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Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, Buccaneers. Bye: 11.
AUG. 1 UPDATE: Jacquizz Rodgers has a chance of unseating Doug Martin as the starting running back, per Jenna Laine, ESPN. I get the feeling that this is coachspeak. Coaches value availability, and Martin doesn’t have that because he has been suspended for three games. Ultimately, they’ll likely recall that Martin is the superior talent, and it helps that he’s in tremendous shape right now.
Jacquizz Rodgers was the best running back on Tampa’s roster last year. He rushed for 560 yards on a 4.3 YPC average. Doug Martin is in great shape, however, so Rodgers shouldn’t be drafted.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 510 rushing yards. 24 catches. 170 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 112.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 136.
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Jamaal Charles, RB, Broncos. Bye: 5.
AUG. 27 UPDATE: A major storyline in the third preseason game is how Jamaal Charles looked. Charles took his first carry for seven yards to a standing ovation. He later made a man miss on a gain of 12 yards. Charles obviously isn’t the same player as before, but he still has some elusiveness. He did a bit of everything, and he made just one blunder in this contest, as he failed to look for a pass. I wouldn’t draft Charles, but he’s worth adding if C.J. Anderson goes down.
Jamaal Charles missed most of 2016. He’s played in just eight games the past two years. He could bounce back after so much time off, but it’s difficult to trust him. He’s just a backup for now anyway, but he’s worth monitoring just in case C.J. Anderson gets hurt.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 460 rushing yards. 38 catches. 240 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 109.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 147.
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Giovani Bernard, RB, Bengals. Bye: 6.
Giovani Bernard tore his ACL in November. He’ll likely be ready by the season opener, but he’ll still be an underwhelming fantasy option in non-PPR formats. He’ll continue to rack up lots of receptions, but Joe Mixon’s presence hurts matters.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 450 rushing yards. 47 catches. 410 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 109.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 156.
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LeGarrette Blount, RB, Eagles. Bye: 10. 
AUG. 31 UPDATE: The Eagles could look into a better solution at running back than LeGarrette Blount, according to Zach Berman, Philadelphia Inquirer. Blount hasn’t shown well this preseason, though part of the reason for that is the Eagles using him incorrectly. Wendell Smallwood has looked better, so he could be the starter. Matt Forte and Matt Jones could be possibilities acquired via trade.
AUG. 18 UPDATE: LeGarrette Blount had trouble finding running room in his Eagles debut last week. That continued to be the case against Buffalo. Granted, Jason Peters was missing, but Philadelphia had issues blocking Buffalo’s front. Blount finished with eight yards on five carries, with all eight yards coming on one attempt. He also fumbled after making a short reception. Blount is being taken way too early in fantasy drafts.
The Eagles signed LeGarrette Blount, who becomes an intriguing RB3, as he figures to have a high touchdown count behind Philadelphia’s prolific offensive line.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 650 rushing yards. 4 catches. 20 receiving yards. 7 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 109.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 113.
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Tim Hightower, RB, 49ers. Bye: 11.
Tim Hightower took over the benched Mark Ingram at one point during the season, but he remained a heavily used second running back for the most part. Hightower did well, gaining 4.1 yards per carry and catching 22 passes. He’s now in a crowded backfield, so don’t expect much.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 480 rushing yards. 19 catches. 140 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 106.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 125.
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Duke Johnson, RB, Browns. Bye: 9.
Duke Johnson is only useful in PPR leagues, thanks to his 114 receptions over the past two years. He carried the ball just 73 times in 2016, however.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 380 rushing yards. 56 catches. 520 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 107.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 163.
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Matt Jones, RB, Colts. Bye: 11.
Matt Jones will need Frank Gore to get hurt to be relevant, but he’s still worth drafting in the late rounds.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 450 rushing yards. 10 catches. 60 receiving yards. 5 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 106.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 116.
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Darren Sproles, RB, Eagles. Bye: 10.
Darren Sproles handled a larger-than-expected workload this past season as a 33-year-old. He tallied 438 rushing yards and caught 52 passes. Sproles has announced that this will be his final season, so he’ll give it his all in 2017.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 420 rushing yards. 48 catches. 380 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 104.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 152.
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Ryan Mathews, RB, Eagles. Bye: 10.
The Eagles failed to upgrade Ryan Mathews this offseason, but it sounds like he’ll be released soon. Some team that sustains an injury at running back could sign Mathews.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 530 rushing yards. 10 catches. 90 receiving yards. 5 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 102.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 112.
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Marlon Mack, RB, Colts. Bye: 11.
AUG. 20 UPDATE: Making his NFL debut, Marlon Mack made the most of his opportunity. He made some nice cuts on his runs of 10 and 13 to start his outing. Mack finished with 45 yards on five carries. With Gore now 34, Mack is worth adding in the late rounds because he has RB2 potential if he starts.
Given that Frank Gore is now 34, Marlon Mack could conceivably start a handful of games as a rookie. If he shows well, he could be Indianapolis’ starting running back in 2018 and beyond.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 380 rushing yards. 20 catches. 140 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 95.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 115.
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Samaje Perine, RB, Redskins. Bye: 5.
SEPT. 1 UPDATE: The most prominent fantasy player to take the field in the Redskins-Buccaneers preseason finale was Samaje Perine. Getting the start with Robert Kelley resting, Perine mustered only three yards on five carries. He took a big loss on one play, as he looked slow in the backfield. Perine hasn’t been impressive at all this preseason, so he’s someone I have no interest in drafting.
AUG. 12 UPDATE: Samaje Perine struggled immensely in the preseason opener. Perine, who played with the backups, had an 11-yard run, but he screwed up a few times. He fumbled the ball, then dropped a pass on the very next play. He also blew a blocking assignment. Kelley appears to be the primary ball-carrier by a wide margin.
Samaje Perine has a legitimate chance to be the Redskins’ starting running back. Either way, he’ll split the workload with Robert Kelley early in his career. Perine has RB2-type upside in 2017, as the Redskins’ running back competition will be an interesting one to watch.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 410 rushing yards. 6 catches. 30 receiving yards. 5 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 94.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 100.
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D’Onta Foreman, RB, Texans. Bye: 7.
Lamar Miller is entrenched as Houston’s starting running back, but D’Onta Foreman could start some games if Miller goes down with an injury. It remains to be seen if Foreman will even be the No. 2 running back, but he has a good chance to be. He could also be the starter in some time.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 410 rushing yards. 6 catches. 40 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 94.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 100.
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Chris Thompson, RB, Redskins. Bye: 5.
Washington’s third-down back, Chris Thompson won’t be a viable fantasy option in non-PPR leagues unless Robert Kelley and Samaje Perine get hurt.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 340 rushing yards. 45 catches. 330 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 91.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 136.
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James White, RB, Patriots. Bye: 9.
James White was a big producer in the passing game during the early stages of the season, but he took a back seat to Dion Lewis late in the year when Lewis returned from injury. White now has to play behind Rex Burkhead and Mike Gillislee, making him very unappealing in non-PPR formats.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 100 rushing yards. 44 catches. 360 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 90.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 134.
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Latavius Murray, RB, Vikings. Bye: 9.
AUG. 2 UPDATE: Latavius Murray still isn’t participating in camp, while Dalvin Cook has earned praise from the coaching staff, according to Chris Tomasson, St. Paul Pioneer Press. Murray hasn’t done anything yet, and he’s way behind Cook at this point. Cook will be the starter, barring injury, while Murray seems like he’ll be a non-factor.
JUNE 2 UPDATE: Latavius Murray is hoping to be ready during training camp at some point, reports Chris Tomasson, St. Paul Pioneer Press. Murray just got out of a walking boot after ankle surgery. He was expected to be ready by training camp, but there’s been a delay in his recovery, apparently. This will give Dalvin Cook the time he needs to supplant Murray.
Oakland’s coaching staff never had much confidence in Latavius Murray, resulting in just 195 carries in 14 games. He was a viable fantasy running back because he scored ample touchdowns in the Raiders’ high-octane offense. However, the Vikings have a worse offensive line, and Murray will have to contend with Dalvin Cook for touches.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 480 rushing yards. 24 catches. 180 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 90.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 114.
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Shane Vereen, RB, Giants. Bye: 8.
Shane Vereen played just five games in 2016 because he tore his triceps twice. Vereen has been on the field in eight games or fewer in three of his seven professional seasons.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 240 rushing yards. 55 catches. 480 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 90.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 145.
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Matt Breida, RB, 49ers. Bye: 11.
Matt Breida has been extremely impressive at OTAs, says Matt Barrows, Sacramento Bee. Breida has making numerous great plays on a daily basis, particularly as a receiver coming out of the backfield. Neither Frank Gore nor Joe Williams is a natural pass-catcher, so Breida, who is extremely athletic, could serve in a prominent role this season. He’ll need to beat out Tim Hightower to be a factor, so he’s someone to watch in the preseason.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 150 rushing yards. 35 catches. 300 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 88.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 123.
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Jalen Richard, RB, Raiders. Bye: 10.
Jalen Richard’s 2017 outlook took a hit when Marshawn Lynch was signed. His reception totals will keep him relevant in PPR, but that’s about it.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 280 rushing yards. 44 catches. 310 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 87.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 131.
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Charles Sims, RB, Buccaneers. Bye: 11.
Charles Sims had a chance to handle the workload for an injured Doug Martin. He struggled, averaging just 2.9 yards per carry, and then he got hurt. Sims could bounce back, but it sounds like Martin is in better shape this year.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 320 rushing yards. 35 catches. 230 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 83.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 118.
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Alfred Morris, RB, Cowboys. Bye: 6.
Alfred Morris will be worth adding if Ezekiel Elliott gets hurt, but he’s a worn-down back who isn’t very good anymore.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 330 rushing yards. 2 catches. 10 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 82.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 84.
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DeAngelo Williams, RB, TBA. Bye: 0.
DeAngelo Williams led the league in rushing after the first few weeks, but then took a back seat to Le’Veon Bell once he returned from his absence. Williams is a free agent, but he’s now 34, and he averaged just 3.5 yards per carry behind a very good offensive line. His arrow is obviously pointing downward.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 420 rushing yards. 22 catches. 140 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 79.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 101.
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Dion Lewis, RB, Patriots. Bye: 9.
With James White, Rex Burkhead and Mike Gillislee on the roster, Dion Lewis could be the odd man out.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 240 rushing yards. 25 catches. 160 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 77.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 102.
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Zach Zenner, RB, Lions. Bye: 7.
Zach Zenner was a big part of Detroit’s offense down the stretch, but only because the Lions were missing Ameer Abdullah and Theo Riddick. Zenner will be worth adding if both backs get hurt again.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 220 rushing yards. 16 catches. 100 receiving yards. 4 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 76.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 92.
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Damien Williams, RB, Dolphins. Bye: 11.
Damien Williams will need to be picked up if Jay Ajayi gets hurt, but he’s waiver wire fodder until that happens. There are better handcuffs available if you’re into that sort of thing.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 170 rushing yards. 25 catches. 200 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 75.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 100.
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DeAndre Washington, RB, Raiders. Bye: 10.
I liked DeAndre Washington as a sleeper last summer, but that one didn’t quite pan out. Washington averaged 5.4 yards per carry, but got only 87 attempts, as he split a workload with Latavius Murray and Jalen Richard. Murray is gone, but Marshawn Lynch was brought in as a replacement.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 310 rushing yards. 18 catches. 120 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 71.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 89.
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Joe Williams, RB, 49ers. Bye: 11.
SEPT. 1 UPDATE: Joe Williams entered the preseason finale in the second quarter and saw lots of action following halftime. The good news for Williams was that he gained 53 yards on 10 carries. He was more decisive in his vision, and he made some great jukes and cuts on his runs. His numbers could’ve been even better had a 9-yard gain of his not been wiped out by penalty. However, Williams made numerous mistakes that must have had Kyle Shanahan wanting to pull his hair out. Williams, who made a nice catch on a low throw, dropped an easy pass in the flat. He fumbled twice in the second half as well. These sorts of errors have been one of the reasons why Williams has fallen behind Matt Breida, who didn’t even play in this game. I would not draft Williams in re-draft leagues right now.
AUG. 29 UPDATE: Matt Breida has been better than Joe Williams in training camp, according to Matt Barrows, Sacramento Bee. Williams got off to a hot start in rookie mini-camps, but has been a letdown since. He has played behind Breida, and there’s no guarantee he’ll even make the team. Williams is not draftable anymore.
AUG. 20 UPDATE: Joe Williams was mysteriously handed the ball only once against the Broncos, which he turned into one yard. Williams has great talent, but he must be terrible in practice because he’s very low on the depth chart right now.
AUG. 12 UPDATE: Joe Williams looked terrific in his preseason debut. He began with dual 17-yard carries. He had yet another 17-yard burst after that, but it was negated by a hold. Williams made a mistake later, dropping a toss, but he was able to pick up the ball and still gain 11 yards. Williams showed some amazing speed and acceleration, ultimately gaining 60 yards on just seven carries. He’s the real deal, and it’s only a matter of time before he’s San Francisco’s starter.
MAY 19 UPDATE: Joe Williams has a strong chance to immediately unseat Carlos Hyde, per Matt Maiocco, CSN Bay Area. Williams is someone to target in the middle rounds of fantasy drafts, though his ADP could begin to push upward. Kyle Shanahan specifically asked John Lynch to draft Williams in the fourth round despite his character issues, and Tony Pauline reported earlier that the 49ers don’t believe Hyde is a good fit for their offense.
Joe Williams has a chance to be San Francisco’s starting running back, as the scuttlebutt is that the 49ers don’t like Carlos Hyde in their offense. Kyle Shanahan specifically asked John Lynch to spend a fourth-round pick on Williams, so I’d have to believe that Williams will see some sort of a workload as a rookie, which I’m betting will increase as the season progresses.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 260 rushing yards. 6 catches. 30 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 71.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 77.
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Charcandrick West, RB, Chiefs. Bye: 10.
Charcandrick West would need both Spencer Ware and Kareem Hunt to get hurt to be any sort of fantasy factor. If that happens, add him immediately.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 220 rushing yards. 20 catches. 150 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 69.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 89.
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Aaron Jones, RB, Packers. Bye: 8.
This is an almost copy-paste: The only running back Aaron Jones has to pass on the depth chart is Ty Montgomery. He’ll get competition from fellow rookie Jamaal Williams, but he has high upside as a late-round flier.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 150 rushing yards. 24 catches. 160 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 68.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 92.
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T.J. Yeldon, RB, Jaguars. Bye: 8.
T.J. Yeldon caught 50 passes in 2016, but split carries with Chris Ivory. Now, he’ll lose even more touches to Leonard Fournette. He’s not draftable in non-PPR leagues.
Projected 2013 Fantasy Stats: 250 rushing yards. 42 catches. 300 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 67.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 109.
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James Conner, RB, Steelers. Bye: 9.
DeAngelo Williams is gone, so James Conner was drafted to be Le’Veon Bell’s direct backup. Considering that Bell misses time every year, Conner should be able to start some games, so he’s not a bad late-round choice.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 250 rushing yards. 14 catches. 100 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 67.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 81.
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Jeremy Langford, RB, Bears. Bye: 9.
Jeremy Langford legitimately lost his job to Jordan Howard. He’ll need to be picked up if Howard gets hurt. Otherwise, he’s not rosterable in a 12-team league.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 220 rushing yards. 15 catches. 110 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 65.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 80.
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Devontae Booker, RB, Broncos. Bye: 5.
Devontae Booker proved to be a big disappointment. He had an opportunity when C.J. Anderson got hurt, and he struggled. He’s not draftable.
Projected 2010 Fantasy Stats: 220 rushing yards. 14 catches. 110 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2010 Fantasy Points: 65.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 79.
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Wayne Gallman, RB, Giants. Bye: 8.
Wayne Gallman has a chance to start some games for the Giants this season, but he’ll likely be in a heavy rotation. Still, the upside is there, as the Giants don’t have any strong running backs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 250 rushing yards. 12 catches. 70 receiving yards. 2 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 64.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 76.
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Chris Ivory, RB, Jaguars. Bye: 8.
Chris Ivory had a major medical issue at the beginning of the season, so he could never get back on track. The Leonard Fournette pick has rendered him useless.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 250 rushing yards. 20 catches. 140 receiving yards. 3 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 57.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 77.
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Jerick McKinnon, RB, Vikings. Bye: 9.
Jerick McKinnon is no longer a factor with Dalvin Cook and Latavius Murray on the roster.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 160 rushing yards. 26 catches. 180 receiving yards. 1 total TD.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 40.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 66.
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Kenneth Dixon, RB, Ravens. Bye: 10.
JULY 26 UPDATE: Out for the year with a torn meniscus.
It was frustrating to see Terrance West get more touches than Kenneth Dixon for numerous weeks, when it was obvious that Dixon happens to be way more talented. Dixon was considered a sleeper here until his four-game suspension for PEDs. That could actually make him a solid value, as I’m sure people will avoid him.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 0 rushing yards. 0 catches. 0 receiving yards. 0 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 0.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 0.
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Spencer Ware, RB, Chiefs. Bye: 10.
AUG. 27 UPDATE: Out for the season.
AUG. 26 UPDATE: Spencer Ware suffered a non-contact injury to his knee at Seattle. The knee buckled, and he grabbed it while on the ground. He tried to get up, but couldn’t. Ware had to be carted off, and it’s obviously not looking good. He could be out for the year.
Spencer Ware was one of my favorite sleepers last year, and he looked great early in the season. However, he slowed down as the campaign progressed, as he averaged better than 3.8 yards per carry just once in his final six games, and that happened to be against the Broncos, who were leaking oil. The Chiefs drafted Kareem Hunt, who could take Ware’s job.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 0 rushing yards. 0 catches. 0 receiving yards. 0 total TDs.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 0.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 0.
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Jonathan Williams, RB, None. Bye: 0.
AUG. 11 UPDATE; LeSeaon McCoy was out, so Jonathan Williams started the preseason opener. He looked good despite Cordy Glenn missing in action. Williams burst for 39 yards on just four carries, and he could’ve posted a 5-50 line had a gain of 11 not been negated by a Richie Incognito hold. Williams did most of his damage against the Minnesota starting defense, so this was not a fluky performance. He’s one of the better handcuffs in fantasy this year.
I wouldn’t roster Jonathan Williams in 12-team leagues, but he’ll need to be added immediately if LeSean McCoy gets hurt.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Stats: 0 rushing yards. 0 catches. 0 receiving yards. 0 total TD.
Projected 2017 Fantasy Points: 0.
Projected 2017 PPR Fantasy Points: 0.
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings - Running Backs (Sept. 6):
Top 10 | 11-20 | 21-40 | 41-75
More 2017 Fantasy Football Articles:
Fantasy Football Rankings
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings:
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks - 9/6 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Quarterback Rankings - 8/28 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings: Running Backs - 9/6 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Running Back Rankings - 8/28 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers - 9/6 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Rankings - 8/28 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings: Tight Ends - 9/6 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Tight End Rankings - 8/28 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings: Kickers - 8/18 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Rankings: Defenses - 8/18 (Walt)
Fantasy Football Rookie Rankings - 5/12 (Walt)
Fantasy Football Rookie Rankings: Dynasty - 5/12 (Walt)
Fantasy Football Rookie Rankings: Dynasty - 5/12 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Drafts:
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 9/1 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Standard - 8/31 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: 2-QB, PPR - 8/25 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 8/24 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 8/17 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Standard - 8/10 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 8/3 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Standard - 7/27 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 7/26 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 7/20 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 7/14 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Standard - 7/13 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheets:
2017 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 PPR - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 2-QB - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 Touchdown League - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Custom - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football: Dynasty Rankings - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football PPR Rankings - 8/16 (Chet)
2017 Fantasy Football Spreadsheets - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Articles:
2017 Fantasy Football Stock Report: OTAs, Training Camp - 9/6 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Sleepers - 9/2 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Busts - 9/2 (Walt)
2017 NFL Preseason Game Recaps - 9/1 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football Stock Report: Preseason - 9/1 (Walt)
2017 Fantasy Football: Running Backs with the Most Carries - 1/31 (Walt)
NFL Picks - Dec. 25
2025 NFL Mock Draft - Dec. 25
NFL Power Rankings - Dec. 23
2026 NFL Mock Draft - Nov. 29
Fantasy Football Rankings - Sept. 4
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Injured/injury risk
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Potential bust
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Potential sleeper
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Rank higher in touchdown leagues
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Rank lower in touchdown leagues
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Rank higher in PPR (points per reception) leagues
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Rank lower in PPR leagues
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