Post-NFL Draft RB Rankings: Risers & Fallers for 2025 Fantasy Football

Running Back Risers After the NFL Draft

• 🚀 Chase Brown is a significant riser, moving up to the 10th overall running back in PPR rankings due to the Cincinnati Bengals' limited additions at the position, despite the presence of Zack Moss and Taj Brooks.
• 💡 RJ Harvey is highlighted as a rookie riser, landing with the Denver Broncos who lost Javonte Williams and did not significantly address the running back position, with Sean Payton viewing Harvey as a versatile, three-down back.
• 📈 Brian Robinson Jr. is seen as excellent value, going late in drafts after Washington did not add significant competition at running back. Despite leaving two games early due to injury, he was on pace for top 24 per-game production and is a potential touchdown-dependent option.

Christian McCaffrey's Health and Backup

• 🩺 Christian McCaffrey is considered a potential late-round one pick due to his reported health, with Isaac Guerendo identified as a clear backup who could become a stud if McCaffrey misses time.

Running Back Fallers Post-Draft

• 📉 Jaylen Warren in Pittsburgh is a faller due to the addition of Caleb Johnson, who is expected to take on the early-down and workhorse role, potentially leaving Warren primarily for passing downs.
• ⚠️ Randre Stevenson in New England faces competition from Trayvon Henderson, and his role as the lead back is not guaranteed under the new coaching regime, making Henderson a potential draft target ahead of Stevenson.
• 🏈 Najee Harris with the Chargers is expected to see his role diminish with the emergence of Omarian Hampton, who was recruited by Jim Harbaugh and is projected to take over as the lead back, especially given Harris's one-year contract.

Late-Round Considerations

• 🐻 Roschon Johnson in Chicago is a low-key winner, as the Bears did not add significant competition, and he is expected to be the more physical of the two running backs used by offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, making him a potential late-round pick.
• 🎯 DeAndre Swift is also mentioned as a riser due to a clear path to being the lead back, though he is not expected to receive every touch.