If you relied on some of fantasy football’s top running backs during the playoffs last week, you might be feeling a bit let down. Stars like Saquon Barkley, De’Von Achane, Breece Hall, Joe Mixon, and Derrick Henry all fell short of the 15 PPR points mark, leaving many fantasy managers scrambling for answers. But fear not! Fantasy football is a week-to-week game, and there’s still hope for redemption in Week 16.
Who are the best fantasy RBs for Week 16?
Let’s start with the shining stars. Saquon Barkley is having an impressive fantasy season, and even with the challenges of the Tush Push play, he continues to find ways to score. If you’re in the fantasy playoffs with Barkley on your roster, you should be feeling optimistic. His ability to break off long touchdowns makes him a consistent threat.
Another standout is Bijan Robinson. After a shaky start, he has become a focal point of the Atlanta offense, especially in the past two months. With a heavy workload, he’s set to shine against the New York Giants. The Giants’ defense has struggled against the run, ranking low in rushing efficiency metrics. This matchup presents a golden opportunity for Robinson to deliver an RB1 performance.
Let’s not forget Kyren Williams, who has been a revelation this season. He’s consistently seen over 30 opportunities per game, making him one of the most utilized backs in the league. Sean McVay trusts him, and this trust translates into fantasy gold, particularly as the Rams push for a playoff spot.
Who are the best fantasy RB waiver pickups for Week 16?
As we dive deeper into the waiver wire, Jerome Ford is a name to keep an eye on. With Nick Chubb’s unfortunate foot injury, Ford stepped up big time, scoring 18.4 PPR points last week. He showcased his skills with a 62-yard touchdown run, proving he can be a lead back. If you need a reliable option, Ford should be a priority pickup.
On the other hand, Tyjae Spears is starting to carve out a significant role in the Tennessee offense. He played 55% of snaps in Week 15 and saw seven targets, indicating that he’s becoming an integral part of the game plan. If you’re looking for a sleeper with upside, Spears could be your guy.
Who are the best fantasy RB sleepers for Week 16?
Now, let’s talk about some potential sleepers. Kendre Miller has emerged as a viable option for the New Orleans Saints. With Alvin Kamara nursing a groin injury, Miller could see a significant increase in workload. If Kamara sits out, Miller could be a volume-based fringe RB2, making him a smart pickup for those in need.
Another intriguing name is Sincere McCormick. Las Vegas coach Antonio Pierce has indicated that McCormick will be leaned on heavily in the coming weeks. With a favorable matchup against the Jaguars, who rank among the top five in fantasy points allowed to running backs, McCormick is worth considering as a starter.
What are the biggest RB injuries for Week 16?
Injuries are always a concern, especially during the playoffs. Nick Chubb suffered a broken foot last week, which is a devastating blow for both him and fantasy managers. Chubb left the stadium on crutches, and it appears his season is over.
Alvin Kamara also raised some eyebrows with a groin injury sustained last week. He made a spectacular one-handed catch but didn’t return to the game. As of now, there’s no clarity on his status for Week 16, leaving fantasy owners in a precarious position.
Kenneth Walker has been dealing with a calf injury that has sidelined him for a few weeks. His absence has allowed Zach Charbonnet to step up, but the Seattle offense would greatly benefit from Walker’s return. Keep an eye on practice reports this week to gauge his availability.
Mid- and late-round gems shine bright
Despite the disappointment from some high-profile running backs, there have been some unexpected heroes. Players like Chase Brown, James Conner, and Rico Dowdle have been lighting it up, helping their fantasy teams advance in the playoffs. These mid- and late-round picks have proven that you don’t always need a first-round selection to succeed.
James Conner has been particularly impressive, consistently finding the end zone and racking up yards. His late-season surge has made him a reliable option for fantasy managers looking to make a championship run.
Week 16 fantasy football rankings
As you prepare for Week 16, make sure to check out the latest running back rankings. These rankings are based on PPR scoring and will be updated throughout the week, so stay tuned for the most current information. Here’s a glimpse at the top five running backs for this week:
| RANK | PLAYER NAME | TEAM | OPPONENT |
| 1 | Bijan Robinson | ATL | vs. NYG |
| 2 | Jahmyr Gibbs | DET | at CHI |
| 3 | Saquon Barkley | PHI | at WAS |
| 4 | Derrick Henry | BAL | vs. PIT |
| 5 | Kyren Williams | LAR | at NYJ |
In the unpredictable world of fantasy football, it’s crucial to stay informed and ready to adapt. With the playoffs in full swing, every decision counts. Whether you’re relying on your stars or looking for hidden gems, make sure to strategize wisely as you head into Week 16. Good luck!
