Week 4 Running Back Rankings: Who To Start?

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Week 4 of the NFL season is upon us, and fantasy football managers are scrambling to optimize their lineups. The running back position is as crucial as ever, with potential league winners and devastating busts scattered across the league. Navigating the weekly rankings is key to securing those precious wins. — Relief Check Legitimacy: How To Verify Yours

Let's dive into the running back rankings for Week 4, highlighting players to start, potential sleepers, and those to leave on your bench.

Top Tier Running Backs (RB1s)

These are the guys you drafted high and are starting no matter what (barring injury). — PenaltyNotice Direct Gov UK: Parking Fine Guide

  • Christian McCaffrey (SF): McCaffrey remains a dominant force. His volume and explosiveness make him matchup-proof.
  • Austin Ekeler (LAC): When healthy, Ekeler is a PPR monster. Monitor his injury status, but if he plays, he starts.
  • Bijan Robinson (ATL): The rookie sensation has lived up to the hype. His talent and role in the Falcons' offense make him a weekly must-start.

Mid-Tier Running Backs (RB2s/Flex Options)

These backs have solid floors and decent ceilings, making them reliable starters or flex options.

  • Tony Pollard (DAL): Pollard is the clear lead back in Dallas. While his efficiency hasn't been elite, the volume is there.
  • Josh Jacobs (LV): After a slow start, Jacobs is starting to look like his old self. Expect a heavy workload.
  • Najee Harris (PIT): Harris gets consistent touches, but his upside is capped by the Steelers' offensive struggles. Still, a decent floor.

Sleeper Running Backs

These players might be available on waivers or are undervalued in your lineup. They could provide a surprising boost.

  • Jerome Ford (CLE): With Nick Chubb out for the season, Ford is the lead back in Cleveland. He has shown flashes of potential and could be a valuable asset.
  • Justice Hill (BAL): Hill has emerged as the lead back in Baltimore's backfield. His pass-catching ability gives him added value in PPR formats.
  • Matt Breida (NYG): With Saquon Barkley injured, Breida becomes a relevant option. He's a capable receiver and should see a significant workload.

Running Backs to Avoid

These players have unfavorable matchups, are in crowded backfields, or are simply underperforming. — Donna Sagemiller: Her Life, Career, And Impact

  • Damien Harris (BUF): In a crowded backfield, Harris's touches are too inconsistent to warrant a start.
  • AJ Dillon (GB): Dillon has struggled to make an impact and is not a reliable option.

Key Considerations for Week 4

  • Injuries: Keep a close eye on injury reports throughout the week. Key injuries can significantly impact the rankings.
  • Matchups: Consider the opposing defense. Some teams are much more vulnerable to the run than others.
  • Game Script: Favorable game scripts (leading late in the game) often lead to more rushing attempts.

By carefully considering these factors and staying informed, you can make the best decisions for your fantasy football team and dominate your league in Week 4! Good luck!