The running back role in fantasy football has undergone significant changes over recent years. Before the last season, many players adopted the “zero RB” strategy, focusing on filling every non-running back position early and waiting until later rounds to select running backs. However, the 2025 drafting landscape looks quite different, with at least four running backs expected among the top ten picks in most drafts. This shift underscores the renewed importance of securing a top-tier running back early to maximize the chance of winning a league. Still, it remains crucial not to overrate players solely because of their position.
Ranking the Most Overrated Running Backs for Dynasty Leagues in 2025
Among various running backs projected for 2025, Christian McCaffrey stands out as the most overrated player to avoid despite his past accomplishments. McCaffrey has been one of the best running backs over the past decade but his recent injury history and advancing age—he is now 29—have diminished his dynasty league value. While he continues to possess impressive skills for re-draft formats, his long-term relevance in dynasty setups has declined substantially.
Other Running Backs with Inflated Expectations to Watch For
Omarion Hampton, an <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL rookie, is another highly rated running back whose draft value may be overly optimistic. Despite being viewed as the RB6 in some projections, Hampton has yet to take a snap in the NFL. His landing spot in Los Angeles offers a favorable rushing environment with solid offensive line support, and he is versatile as a rusher and receiver. However, considering other young, proven backs like Bucky Irving and Breece Hall might be smarter choices due to their demonstrated performance and potential.
Chase Brown had a strong 2024 campaign with over 1,000 total yards, and his role appears stable heading into 2025. Nonetheless, he is currently drafted ahead of backs like James Cook and Josh Jacobs, both of whom outperformed him in rushing yards and touchdowns last season. This raises questions about Brown’s relative value compared to these more established players.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. emerged as the New York Giants‘ primary running back in his rookie year, finishing the season as their RB1. Despite this, the Giants brought in Cam Skattebo through the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Skattebo, known for his physical ground and receiving game at Arizona State, poses a significant challenge to Tracy’s role. Yet Tracy is projected as the RB27 in PPR formats and ranked higher than other confirmed RB1s like Brian Robinson Jr. and Isiah Pacheco, suggesting a possible overvaluation in dynasty drafts.
Tony Pollard led Tennessee’s backfield in his first season with the Titans but missed time due to injury. During that period, teammate Tyjae Spears demonstrated considerable versatility, accumulating over 100 yards from scrimmage in limited action. Head coach Brian Callahan has explicitly stated his intention to increase Spears’ opportunities in the upcoming season. Despite this, Pollard remains a popular pick as RB25, even though a committee backfield with Spears is highly likely, which may reduce Pollard’s individual upside.
Evaluating the Impact of Overrating Running Backs in Dynasty Fantasy Football
The 2025 dynasty fantasy football landscape warns managers to thoroughly assess running backs beyond hype and positional scarcity. Christian McCaffrey’s case reflects how injury history and age can reduce a player’s long-term value despite previous success. Similarly, rookies and young running backs like Omarion Hampton and Chase Brown may not yet justify their lofty projections when compared against peers with proven track records. Furthermore, the addition of competing backs on teams such as the Giants and Titans introduces uncertainty around player workloads, emphasizing caution when investing early picks.
As teams prepare for the 2025 season, understanding the nuances of these runners and their respective roles will be critical to building winning dynasty squads. Avoiding overrated players at the running back position can open opportunities to invest in more promising options with better sustainability and upside. Ultimately, skillful evaluation of factors like injury risk, team dynamics, and opportunity will separate successful fantasy managers from the rest.