NFL Fantasy Football: Top 5 Breakout Running Backs
By Erik Lambert
No position group is more intricate to the success in NFL fantasy football league than the running backs. Owners who have a good stockpile tend to do far better than those that don’t. So knowing where to find some possible hidden gems can be crucial. Here are a few names that can be poised for a possible jump in fantasy points going into 2016.
David Johnson (Arizona Cardinals)
After taking a back seat to Chris Johnson and Andre Ellington early last season, David Johnson took over the Arizona Cardinals backfield and became a major catalyst for their offensive success down the stretch. He finished with 581 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground with another 457 yards and four touchdowns through the air. One can only imagine how much more productive he’ll be with a full season of starter touches.
Jeremy Langford (Chicago Bears)
People keep asking how in the world the Chicago Bears could justify letting longtime star Matt Forte walk. The reasoning comes down to two keys: age and Jeremy Langford. Forte was approaching his 30s and the former rookie 4th round pick made his exit easier to stomach by posting 826 total yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns. He’s versatile, explosive and now the unquestioned starter.
Duke Johnson (Cleveland Browns)
One thing new Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson has become known for over the years as an offensive coordinator is being able to produce some effective ground attacks. With the strong likelihood that the team will be trying to break in a young quarterback, they’re likely to lean on Duke Johnson who piled up 810 yards and two touchdowns of total offense as a reserve his rookie year.
Alfred Morris (Dallas Cowboys)
Last season it appeared as if the career of Alfred Morris was buried as he put up the worst numbers of his career as running back in Washington. He averaged just 3.7 yards per carry. That being said, he wasn’t behind the Dallas Cowboys offensive line last year. If any front can help Morris regain his Pro Bowl form that flashed back in 2012 and 2013, it is that one. Something the Cowboys are certainly banking on. The good news is he’s healthy and just 27-years old.
Javorius Allen (Baltimore Ravens)
Always an advocate of running the football, the Baltimore Ravens will hope to continue that tradition in 2016, especially with Joe Flacco returning from injury. Justin Forsett looks like he’s done with the team, leaving the reins in the hands of second-year man Javorius Allen. His 867 total yards and three touchdowns in support duty offer an intriguing preview of what could be expected now that he is the projected starter.