Jonah Coleman, Denver Broncos
Rookie running back Jonah Coleman should be the top priority on waiver wires in every league. After missing four games with an ankle injury, he returned in Week 7 and immediately looked like the most explosive back in Denver. Coleman led the backfield
in snaps (50%), carries (9), and rushing yards (54) despite just being activated from injured reserve. Meanwhile, starter J.K. Dobbins saw his snap share and carries dip to season lows. Head coach Sean Payton has already said Coleman brings 'juice' to the offense and needs more touches. It's clear the rookie is trending toward taking over this backfield, and you want him on your roster before that happens.
Kaelon Black, San Francisco 49ers
Owning the backup to Christian McCaffrey is always a wise strategy, and Kaelon Black is that guy. The 49ers are on a bye in Week 8, but we just saw what could happen when McCaffrey briefly left the game with a thigh injury in Week 7. Black stepped in and immediately handled a significant workload, finishing with a season-high 12 carries for 63 yards and a touchdown. His roster percentage is still surprisingly low for a player in such a valuable position. An injury to McCaffrey would instantly make Black a top-tier RB1 in one of the league's most potent offenses. Stash him now during the bye week lull.
Dylan Sampson, Cleveland Browns
Much like Coleman in Denver, Dylan Sampson returned from injured reserve in Week 7 and made an immediate impact for the Browns. He operated as the clear No. 2 option behind starter Quinshon Judkins but carved out a valuable role, especially in the passing game where he caught all three of his targets. Sampson totaled an efficient 77 yards on just nine touches. With Judkins already dealing with his own injury issues this season, Sampson is more than just a typical handcuff. He has standalone value in PPR leagues and massive upside if Judkins were to miss any more time.
Kimani Vidal, Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers backfield is a bit messy, but Kimani Vidal is the player trending in the right direction. Over the last three weeks, he has seen a notable uptick in usage while Keaton Mitchell's role has diminished. Since Week 5, Vidal's snap share and rush share have steadily increased, and he has been the team's most efficient runner in that span, averaging 5.2 yards per carry. While Omarion Hampton still leads the backfield in total opportunities, his performance has been underwhelming. Vidal is a speculative add, but he has a clear path to earning a larger role on an offense that desperately needs a spark. He could become a useful flex option as the season progresses.
Jordan Mason, Minnesota Vikings
The situation in the Minnesota backfield became a must-watch after starter Aaron Jones aggravated a left knee injury in Week 7. Jones has already dealt with a sprained MCL this season, and the team will likely be cautious with him. This opens the door for Jordan Mason, who just returned from his own injury. In Week 7, Mason stepped in for the injured Jones and immediately led the team with 68 yards on 15 carries. He looked effective and ready to handle a larger workload. If Jones misses time, which seems likely, Mason steps into a lead role for an undefeated team. He's a priority addition who could provide immediate RB2 value.
