Late Round Fantasy Football Running Backs: Sleepers & Handcuffs for 2023

Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Welcome back to our series where we dive deep into the late-round gems that could make or break your season. Today, we're shining a spotlight on those under-the-radar late round fantasy football running backs who could be the steal of your draft. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and late round fantasy football running backs.

Why Focus on Late Round Running Backs?

In fantasy football, running backs are typically the first position to be drafted. However, reaching for a RB in the early rounds can often leave your team lacking in other crucial areas. By waiting and snagging a late round fantasy football running back, you can build depth at the position and still come out with a solid starting lineup.

Understanding the Late Round RB Landscape

Before we dive into our top picks, let's understand what we're looking for in late round fantasy football running backs:

1. Opportunity: Is the player likely to see a significant workload? This could be due to an injury-prone starter, a change in coaching staff, or a rookie getting their first shot.
2. Talent: Even in the late rounds, you want a player with the skillset to make an impact. Look for guys with proven college production, impressive athleticism, or a history of performing in big moments.
3. Handcuff Potential: A handcuff is a backup running back who could see a significant increase in touches if the starter goes down. Having a handcuff on your roster can provide valuable insurance and even a potential RB1 if the starter misses time.

Our Top Late Round Fantasy Football Running Backs for 2023

1. Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers**

Rachaad White burst onto the scene in 2022, rushing for 484 yards and four touchdowns while catching 27 passes for 190 yards and a score. With Leonard Fournette's contract situation uncertain, White could see an increased workload in 2023. His receiving ability and big-play potential make him an enticing late round fantasy football running back with RB2 upside.

2. Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City Chiefs**

Pacheco was a revelation in the playoffs, rushing for 207 yards and two touchdowns in Kansas City's two postseason games. With Clyde Edwards-Helaire's injury history and Jerick McKinnon's age, Pacheco could see a significant workload in 2023. His powerful running style and ability to break tackles make him a legitimate late round fantasy football running back sleeper.

3. Jamaal Williams, New Orleans Saints**

Williams was a fantasy darling in 2022, rushing for 1,066 yards and nine touchdowns. Now in New Orleans, he'll likely see a significant workload with the departure of Mark Ingram. While the Saints' offense may not be as potent as the Lions', Williams' nose for the end zone makes him a solid late round fantasy football running back option.

4. Kenny McIntosh, Miami Dolphins**

McIntosh is an athletic freak who put up impressive numbers at Georgia. With Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr. both free agents, McIntosh could see a significant workload in Miami. While he's still a bit raw, his upside is undeniable, making him a high-risk, high-reward late round fantasy football running back pick.

5. Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons**

Allgeier was a workhorse at BYU, rushing for over 1,600 yards in each of his final two college seasons. With Cordarrelle Patterson now in Atlanta, Allgeier could see a significant workload in 2023. His between-the-tackles running style and pass-catching ability make him a intriguing late round fantasy football running back option.

Late Round Handcuffs to Consider

While handcuffs may not provide immediate fantasy value, they can be crucial in case of injury. Here are a few late round fantasy football running back handcuffs to consider:

- James Cook, Buffalo Bills (Backup to Devin Singletary) - Dare Ogunbowale, New York Jets (Backup to Breece Hall) - Jaret Patterson, Washington Commanders (Backup to Brian Robinson Jr.) - Damien Harris, New England Patriots (Backup to Rhamondre Stevenson)

Draft Strategy: When to Target Late Round Running Backs

When drafting late round fantasy football running backs, it's essential to have a strategy. Here's a general approach:

1. Wait Until Round 8 or Later: In 12-team leagues, you can usually find quality late round fantasy football running backs in rounds 8-10.
2. Draft a Handcuff Early: If you have an RB1 you love, consider drafting their handcuff in the late rounds as insurance.
3. Target Opportunity: When in doubt, prioritize players who are likely to see a significant workload over those with more talent but uncertain roles.

Final Thoughts on Late Round Fantasy Football Running Backs

Drafting late round fantasy football running backs can be a gamble, but it's a gamble that can pay off big. By waiting and targeting the right players, you can build depth at the position and still come out with a strong starting lineup. So, keep an eye on these late round fantasy football running backs and be ready to pounce when they fall to you in your draft.

Happy drafting, and we'll see you next time for more fantasy football insights!