10 Best Fantasy Football Running Back Draft Bargains

Fantasy bargain running backs like J.K. Dobbins, Quinshon Judkins and Tank Bigsby could move the needle early. For bettors: expect volatile RB props and game totals — back low-limit RB rushing-over props and futures on backup touches if a starter is injured or suspended. Target long-shot player-prop boosts and low-priced alternate totals in early 2025 lines.

Why RB Bargains Matter

Every season a few running backs drafted late emerge as fantasy difference-makers because of injuries, opportunity or quietly demonstrated talent. Identifying backs with favorable depth-chart situations, offensive schemes that rotate backs, or injury-prone starters ahead of them is key to winning late-round value.

Top 10 RB Bargains to Target in 2025 Drafts

Quinshon Judkins, Browns (ADP – 92)

Judkins brings second-round talent and big-play upside. Off-field issues create uncertainty and potential suspension risk, but if available he projects to earn significant reps as a rookie in a Browns backfield that values downhill runners.

Jordan Mason, Vikings (ADP – 105)

Mason profiles as a younger, cheaper complement to Aaron Jones Sr. Reports suggest a committee setup; drafted late, Mason offers upside if Jones’ production fades or snaps are managed due to age.

J.K. Dobbins, Broncos (ADP – 107)

A 2024 bargain reborn in Denver, Dobbins has three-down upside in Sean Payton’s offense alongside RJ Harvey. Expect touches and red-zone looks in a system that historically splits backfield workload effectively.

Tank Bigsby, Jaguars (ADP – 121)

Bigsby earned significant reps last season and could see expanded role under new coaching staff. With Travis Etienne Jr. commanding earlier ADP, Bigsby is an underpriced committee threat with standalone value if usage grows.

Jaydon Blue, Cowboys (ADP – 126)

Rave camp reviews and Darren Sproles comparisons (high praise) make Blue an intriguing PPR sleeper. With Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders as incumbents, Blue’s pass-catching upside is his main path to fantasy relevance.

Isaac Guerendo, 49ers (ADP – 133)

Christian McCaffrey remains the No. 1 workhorse when healthy, but his injury history keeps a high-end backup like Guerendo interesting. If CMC misses time, Guerendo could spike in value quickly.

Trey Benson, Cardinals (ADP – 143)

Benson was quiet as a rookie because James Conner stayed healthy. Conner’s age and comments hinting at a split role make Benson a cheap late-round flier with upside in a potential committee.

Braelon Allen, Jets (ADP – 154)

Positive camp buzz and a coaching staff that likes backfield duos give Allen sleeper appeal behind Breece Hall. Very late ADP makes him an easy speculative pick for depth and upside in deeper leagues.

Keaton Mitchell, Ravens (ADP – 256)

Mitchell’s rookie flashes (8.4 YPC) before an ACL make him a boom-or-bust sleeper. If healthy, he’s worth a late flier in deeper formats given Baltimore’s creative usage of smaller, explosive backs.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Commanders (ADP – 258)

Trade talk around Brian Robinson Jr. opens a path for Croskey-Merritt to earn meaningful touches alongside Austin Ekeler. Monitor roster moves; this is a roster-stash candidate with touchdown upside in a committee.

How to Use These Targets in Drafts and Bets

Draft them as late-round depth with upside or bench stash candidates. In redraft leagues, prioritize pass-catching backs for PPR formats. For bettors, these names can inform early-season player-prop plays and long-shot futures — bet low-risk prop overs for backups if starters show any health or off-field risk.

Final Take

Late-round running back bargains are often the deciding factor in fantasy championships. Focus on opportunity, offensive scheme fit and injury risk ahead of draft day, and don’t be afraid to take high-upside RBs after the main handcuffs are gone.

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