Rookie Running Backs Poised to Propel Fantasy Football Managers to League-Winning Success
ICARO Media Group
### Young Running Backs to Watch: Potential Fantasy Football League-Winners
In the competitive world of fantasy football, securing a dependable running back can be a game-changing move, especially as the season heads towards its final stretch. Even though there seems to be an abundance of elite quarterbacks and wide receivers, finding a stable running back remains a crucial task for fantasy owners. This article highlights five lesser-known rookie running backs who could emerge as "league-winners" — those under-the-radar players with the potential to explode in the latter half of the season.
#### Audric Estimé - Denver Broncos
Audric Estimé’s rookie campaign with the Denver Broncos has been anything but smooth. An ankle injury sidelined him for Weeks 2 through 5. Nonetheless, he's slowly making his way back into the spotlight, with head coach Sean Payton indicating plans to increase Estimé’s touches. Having managed 95 yards on just 15 carries so far, there is optimism that his role might expand, especially with the impending free agency of starter Javonte Williams. Although his road to becoming an impact player is challenging and he remains rostered in just 2% of leagues, his efficiency could make him a valuable pickup in deeper formats.
#### Isaac Guerendo - San Francisco 49ers
Isaac Guerendo of the San Francisco 49ers faces a steep hill to fantasy relevance, given the likely return of star running back Christian McCaffrey. Still, Guerendo has showcased his potential with 184 yards on 24 carries and a touchdown in two games where Jordan Mason has been limited. With Mason’s ongoing shoulder issues, Guerendo could stand in as a significant backup option. He's currently rostered in only 17% of leagues, making him a potential high-reward stash, especially if McCaffrey's injury woes continue.
#### Trey Benson - Arizona Cardinals
Arizona Cardinals’ rookie Trey Benson recently exhibited his skills by turning 8 carries into 37 yards and a touchdown in a win against the Bears. Starter James Conner still holds the primary role, but with Conner's contract set to expire, the Cardinals might start giving Benson more opportunities. The team’s favorable schedule, featuring games against the Patriots, Panthers, and Rams, enhances Benson’s chances of fantasy success. Available in 83% of leagues, Benson could be a shrewd pickup for managers looking ahead to the fantasy playoffs.
#### Blake Corum - Los Angeles Rams
Despite some initial doubts in August, Kyren Williams has solidified his role as the Los Angeles Rams' lead back. Meanwhile, rookie Blake Corum, a third-round pick, remains underutilized, making him an intriguing stash candidate. Should Williams sustain an injury, Corum would likely assume the top spot in the backfield. With Corum rostered in just 15% of Yahoo leagues, forward-thinking managers could benefit greatly from picking him up as insurance for the Rams’ running game.
#### Ray Davis - Buffalo Bills
Ray Davis is making a compelling case for more attention in the Buffalo Bills' backfield, already rostered in 27% of Yahoo leagues. Davis stepped up impressively in Week 6 when James Cook was sidelined, amassing 152 scrimmage yards on 23 touches. His superior efficiency and ability to force missed tackles make him a valuable handcuff and potential league-winner. If Cook were to miss additional time, Davis has the talent to become a top-15 fantasy option, an enticing rationale for fantasy managers to grab him while they still can.
By carefully monitoring these rookies and capitalizing on their potential, fantasy football enthusiasts might just stumble upon the next big star to lead them to a championship victory.