Jonathon Brooks (Carolina Panthers)
Jonathon Brooks was the first running back selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, but his rookie season was a non-starter. Now, heading into 2026, he profiles as a classic post-hype sleeper who could vastly outperform his draft position. The Panthers have an underwhelming
Chuba Hubbard listed atop their depth chart, but the organization has a significant investment in Brooks. Analysts note that finding true three-down backs is difficult, but Brooks has that potential. His average draft position (ADP) often places him in the RB3 or flex conversation, making him a high-upside target. If he can secure the lead role in Carolina, fantasy managers could be getting an RB1 at a significant discount.
Rachaad White (Washington Commanders)
Proven receiving production is fantasy football gold, especially in PPR formats, and Rachaad White has it in spades. Now with the Washington Commanders, he enters a backfield that lacks a clear-cut, three-down starter. While he may split carries, his role as a pass-catcher provides a stable weekly floor. White is the only running back in the league to have recorded at least 40 receptions in each of the last four seasons. His current ADP around RB38 to RB40 suggests the market is too low on a player with his established receiving skills. Even if he doesn’t command a huge rushing share, his involvement in the passing game makes him a reliable value in the middle rounds.
Quinshon Judkins (Cleveland Browns)
Sometimes a player's situation improves dramatically, and that's the case for Quinshon Judkins. His rookie numbers don't jump off the page, but underlying metrics tell a different story. He was highly effective at creating yards after contact despite playing behind a poor offensive line. Cleveland addressed that weakness in the offseason, significantly upgrading their line. With an improved situation, Judkins is a prime breakout candidate. His ADP places him in the fifth-round range, where he presents an opportunity to acquire a potential high-volume back on what should be a much more efficient offense. He’s a bet on talent and improved circumstances combining for a huge fantasy season.
Jordan Mason (Minnesota Vikings)
This is a bet on youth and production winning out over name recognition. Aaron Jones is still listed as the starter for Minnesota, but Jordan Mason arguably outplayed him last season. In 2025, Mason posted more carries, yards, and touchdowns than Jones, along with a superior yards-per-carry average. At 27, Mason is in his prime, while Jones will be turning 32. History shows that running backs on the wrong side of 30 often see a decline. Despite this, their ADPs are often close, with Jones sometimes even being drafted earlier. Targeting Mason in the middle rounds is a savvy move that anticipates a changing of the guard in the Vikings' backfield, giving you a potential starter at a discount.
Tyjae Spears (Tennessee Titans)
While Tony Pollard was brought in to lead the Titans' backfield, Tyjae Spears remains a compelling mid-round target, particularly in PPR leagues. Spears is a versatile and capable receiving back who could benefit from a more creative offensive scheme under new coordinator Brian Daboll. His ADP, which often sits near RB49, only requires him to maintain a steady passing-down role to provide value. Furthermore, at 29 years old, Pollard carries some risk, giving Spears significant contingency upside. If Pollard were to miss time, Spears has the talent to step into a much larger role. He's an ideal target for managers looking for a player with a safe weekly floor and a high potential ceiling.
