Unleashing Your Fantasy Football Strategy: Best Running Back Handcuffs to Consider

Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the world of running back handcuffs, and we're going to help you find the best fantasy running back handcuffs to supercharge your team's strategy. So, grab your notepads, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and best fantasy running back handcuffs.

Why Handcuff Your Running Backs?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's quickly chat about why handcuffing your running backs is an essential strategy in fantasy football. Handcuffing refers to drafting a backup running back who plays behind your starter, ensuring you're covered if your lead back goes down with an injury. It's like having a spare tire in your car – you hope you never need it, but it's there just in case.

The Art of Picking the Best Fantasy Running Back Handcuffs

Picking the right handcuff involves a bit of finesse. You're looking for a backup who:

- Plays behind a starting RB with a high injury risk or a history of injuries. - Has shown potential in their limited playing time. - Plays for a team that loves to run the ball. - Has a clear path to playing time if the starter goes down.

Now that we've got the basics down, let's explore some of the best fantasy running back handcuffs for the upcoming season!

1. Najee Harris & Anthony McFarland Jr., Pittsburgh Steelers

Najee Harris was the Steelers' first-round pick in 2021 and is set to be their lead back this season. However, Harris is no stranger to injuries, having dealt with various ailments throughout his college career. That's where Anthony McFarland Jr. comes in. The second-year back out of Maryland has shown flashes of potential and could step into a significant role if Harris were to miss time.

2. Javonte Williams & Melvin Gordon III, Denver Broncos

The Broncos have a dynamic duo at running back with Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon III. While Gordon is the current starter, Williams showed impressive skills in his rookie season, and many believe he's the future at the position. If Gordon were to go down, Williams would be an instant RB1 in fantasy. But don't sleep on Gordon's handcuff potential either – he's proven his worth as a fantasy asset in the past.

3. Darrell Henderson Jr. & Cam Akers, Los Angeles Rams

The Rams' backfield is an intriguing one, with both Darrell Henderson Jr. and Cam Akers having shown promise. Akers was the team's second-round pick in 2020 and is expected to be the lead back, but Henderson has proven to be a capable backup with starting potential. If Akers were to miss time, Henderson would be a solid handcuff option.

4. Saquon Barkley & Gary Brightwell, New York Giants

Saquon Barkley is one of the league's most talented running backs, but injuries have plagued him in recent seasons. That's why drafting Gary Brightwell as a handcuff makes sense. The undrafted free agent out of Arizona has impressed in the preseason and could see significant playing time if Barkley were to go down.

5. Joe Mixon & Samaje Perine, Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Mixon is one of the league's premier running backs, but he's also dealt with injuries throughout his career. That's where Samaje Perine comes in. The veteran back has shown he can handle a significant workload and would be a solid handcuff option if Mixon were to miss time.

When to Draft Your Handcuffs

Now that you know some of the best fantasy running back handcuffs, you might be wondering when to draft them. In most cases, it's best to wait until the later rounds of your draft to snag your handcuff. After all, you're not drafting them to start – you're drafting them for insurance.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If you have a high pick and your starter has a history of injuries or is playing behind a porous offensive line, you might want to consider drafting their handcuff earlier than you normally would.

Final Thoughts on the Best Fantasy Running Back Handcuffs

Handcuffing your running backs is an essential strategy in fantasy football, and knowing the best fantasy running back handcuffs can help you sleep easy at night, knowing you're covered if your starter goes down. So, do your research, stay informed, and good luck this fantasy football season!

And remember, folks – it's not just about winning; it's about having fun and enjoying the ride. So, grab your friends, pour some beers, and let the games begin!