Reading the fantasy football tea leaves of running back failures

We are just three weeks into the 2024 season, and already there is a sense of panic within the fantasy football community. 

We just witnessed Andy Dalton resurrect the Panthers, Jauan Jennings led all wide receivers in scoring, and the top tight ends served up another huge helping of disappointment. But nothing causes more unrest than watching your running backs systematically lose their jobs. 

No coach has stepped to the postgame podium yet to declare a depth chart change, but actions speak louder than words. Running backs many thought would be reliable have failed miserably through three games, and we are beginning to see a shift in snaps, touches and production. If you have space on your bench, it’s time to hit the waiver wire. 

First and foremost, consider this your weekly reminder that Rachaad White is an ineffective running back, and if Bucky Irving is available, he is a must-add. 

Granted, White was dealing with a groin issue during the week, but he was taken off the injury report and supposed to lead the Buccaneers backfield. But for the third-straight game, Irving outplayed White, and Irving’s 7.5 per-carry average this season (to White’s 2.1) really highlights just how much more efficient the rookie is as a player. 

We also need to adjust our thoughts regarding Zamir White and the Raiders backfield. White’s 3.2 yards per carry isn’t crushing souls like his counterpart in Tampa Bay, but based on usage, the Raiders have Alexander Mattison looking like the better fantasy option. 

Mattison has a touchdown in each of the first three games, he has been used more than White in the passing game, and, more importantly, Mattison is the one they turn to when they are near the goal line. If these trends continue, Mattison could end up leading the Las Vegas backfield. 

But the situation that has everyone scratching their heads is found in Denver. Clearly, head coach Sean Payton is not a fan of Javonte Williams. Fumbles and inefficient rushing will always hurt, but when Williams failed to punch one in from the 2-yard line Sunday, Payton yanked him off the field, and Jaleel McLaughlin found the end zone on the very next play. Payton also opted to use third-stringer Tyler Badie to close out the win. Now there are questions surrounding Williams and his snap count for Week 4. 

The running back position is usually filled with turnover from injuries, but in some cases, you need to start reading the tea leaves and anticipate what the coaches are going to do. 

Betting on the NFL?

Dropping either White or Williams is a hasty move, but adding their “backups” is a smart and safe play. Cream will always rise to the top, but right now, we’re looking for the start of the separation. 

Howard Bender is the head of content at FantasyAlarm.com. Follow him on X @rotobuzzguy and catch him on the award-winning “Fantasy Alarm Radio Show” on the SiriusXM fantasy sports channel weekdays from 6-8 p.m. Go to FantasyAlarm.com for all your fantasy football news and advice.