Late-Round Zero RB Targets
The infamous zero running back strategy revolves around filling out other positions in your fantasy football lineup such as quarterback, wide receiver, and tight end before selecting your running backs later on in drafts. The strategy has many risks to it, but if executed correctly, it can be an effective way to win your fantasy football league that season. The zero running back phrase was first used by fantasy football legend Shawn Siegele in 2013, and he is cited as the creator of this strategy. So go ahead and load up on high-valued wide receivers/quarterbacks/tight ends in the early rounds, as I have 7 late-round running backs that you should draft in your fantasy football leagues this offseason.
Last Season: RB18 | Current ADP: 63
In a press conference earlier this week, Conner stated that he is in the best shape of his career and certainly looked it this offseason. Head coach Johnathan Gannon suggested that Conner will be significantly involved in the offense once more this season. As training camp continues, film has showed Conner catching passes out of the backfield, adding value to his fantasy stock. The Cardinals went out of their way to draft former Florida running back Trey Benson in the 2024 NFL Draft, signaling looking toward the future. Earlier this offseason, Conner stated that he wants to retire as a Cardinal. These comments and transactions point to Conner retiring after this season. I believe this is the last chance fantasy managers can enjoy having him on their roster, and it will end on a high note.
Last Season: RB20 | Current ADP: 67
Swift’s PPR upside is what makes him an attractive option as a late round pick. Now in Chicago, he’ll be competing with both Roschon Johnson and Khalil Herbert for touches, except what separates him from the rest is his receiving abilities and goal-line touches. The consensus is that there must be a reason Chicago signed him to a three-year $15 million contract and it points to him being utilized heavily in the offense, especially the passing game. Draft Swift as a flex option with the potential to become an RB2.
Last Season: RB56 | Current ADP: 71
White looks to take the reigns as the lead back in the Raiders offense this season after the departure of Josh Jacobs. Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy is excited to see defenders bounce off White as the running back gained six pounds of muscle this offseason. When on the field last season, he averaged 4.3 yards per carry which he can match or exceed this season. Even with Alexander Mattison also in the rotation, he’ll be used as a receiving back instead, so no worries about who will receive more carries. Draft White as he has the potential to become an RB2 for fantasy managers at a great value.
Rookie | Current ADP: 87
Brooks has the highest potential to become a steal for fantasy managers this season. Throughout training camp, he has not participated much in team drills and has been working individually as he is recovering from a torn ACL suffered last November. He was highly touted as one of the top running backs in college football last season before his injury. When he returns, he’ll certainly become the lead back in the Panthers offense. If the stars align, Brooks can become a late season contributor for fantasy teams and lead them to a championship.
Last Season: RB26 | Current ADP: 92
Ekeler is a PPR machine who can cook this season! He has looked fantastic this offseason, especially catching passes from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Now fully recovered from a hamstring injury that he suffered last season, Ekeler looks like a viable option for fantasy managers. Even though he’ll be sharing the backfield with Brian Robinson, expect Ekeler to be heavily involved in the passing game. Draft him with the intention of starting him as a flex option as his receiving ability is why his fantasy value shines.
Last Season: RB29 | Current ADP: 92
Head coach Sean Payton mentioned that Williams is looking quick, agile, and fast this offseason. In return, Williams responded that he lost eleven pounds this year and feels good. To add additional upside to his value, rookie quarterback Bo Nix loves to check down to his running backs. As past film shows, when Williams catches the ball out of the backfield, he makes the first defender miss and accumulates significant yardage. All the signs are pointing in favor of Williams being a steal in the later rounds of the draft, as he is the lead running back in a run-heavy offense with the ability to score plenty of PPR points.
Last Season: RB63 | Current ADP: 121
Now that former starter Joe Mixon is out of town, Brown can showcase his greatness. He is another flashy running back with high upside in PPR formats. Last season in a limited sample size, he recorded 14 receptions for 176 yards, averaging 11.1 yards per reception, and scored 1 touchdown. Throughout the offseason, he has taken most of the first-team offensive snaps at the running back position. As per observation, it is Brown’s time to shine as he is having a fantastic camp and is poised for a huge breakout season. Grab him now in drafts as his draft stock is about to soar!
