The only guarantee at running back is that there are no guarantees at running back. Year in and year out there are a handful of new stars, while the previous year’s stars fall short.

Receiving is valued at an all-time high. PPR leagues will especially prioritize those who can make an impact out of the backfield. Here’s a look at three backs in different situations currently drafted outside of the top 60 at the position.

Dameon Pierce (63)

Pierce is one of the most exciting rookie prospects in the league this year. Pierce failed to break out with the Florida Gators over the past four years. However, he showed extreme savvy in finding the endzone in 2021 with 13 scores – primarily as a goal-line option.

Drafted into the mess that is Houston, Pierce has a likely path to opportunistic carries this season. The Texans drafted Kenyon Greene to help solidify the interior line and have done little to secure their backfield.

Pierce is competing with Marlon Mack, who lacks the explosiveness he had before his Achilles injury, and third-down back Rex Burkhead. It may take time to develop, but Pierce offers high value as a late-round pick.

D’onta Foreman (72)

The Titans found surprising success from D’onta in Derrick Henry’s absence last season. Turning in four games with at least 100 yards or 1 touchdown, he proved to be a solid FLEX play over the second half of the year. The change of scenery in 2022 means uncertain, but interesting potential.

Carolina has unfortunately not seen consistent availability from Christian McCaffrey over the past two seasons. When healthy, he’s the best back in football. However, there are no guarantees in this sport.

Chuba Hubbard was far from consistent, and Foreman offers a different skillset. Nothing more than a speculation pick, Foreman is worth a stash until McCaffrey is back for good.

Duke Johnson (80)

Johnson was a PPR dream a few short years ago. However, since he was traded to the Texans, he’s failed to make the impact on offense that he once made. His playing opportunity was sparse in 2021. 2022 reveals a new chance with the best possible fit as he lands in Buffalo.

Devin Singletary is the feature back for the Bills. He rushed for nearly 900 yards last season with an additional 40 receptions for good measure. However, that’s nothing to the 70-reception potential that Johnson brings to a pass-first (and -second) offense headed by Josh Allen. His value comes exclusively in PPR leagues, but he’s a name to watch through training camp.

Other Names to Watch

Matt Breida (74) – The clear back-up to Saquon Barkley, Breida offers potential behind the ever-injured star.
Tyrion Davis-Price (77) – Shanahan’s latest running back brings valuable skill to an offense custom fit to each player’s ability.