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- Most People Are Overlooking These 3 Running Backs
These breakout backs are flying under the radar — don’t make the mistake of waiting too long on them...
Jordan James – San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers traded up for James in Round 5 — and he’s already a favorite of their legendary RB scout, Franke Gore. Gore even had him as a Top 5 back in the class.
He produced 1,267 yards and 15 TDs at Oregon last season with elite vision, balance, and no fumbles — including big games vs ranked teams like Ohio State and Penn State.
Now he lands in Kyle Shanahan’s offense behind CMC, who’s 29 and dealt with multiple injuries last year. If McCaffrey misses time? James could slide into a premium role…
Cam Skattebo – New York Giants
Skattebo is a stat machine: 1,711 rushing yards, 605 receiving yards, and 21 TDs last year — plus he threw a 42-yard touchdown in the college football playoffs.
He ranked Top 5 in Heisman voting and forced a missed tackle on 30% of carries. Sure, he ran a 4.65 — but he’s not known for long speed anyways. His short area explosiveness is the name of his game.
The Giants spent early Day 3 capital on him and have a messy backfield.
Tyrone Tracy might start, but he fumbled often in 2024. Skattebo’s receiving chops and reliability (5 drops vs. 111 catches) make him a sneaky value in PPR formats…
Jaydon Blue – Dallas Cowboys
Blue might be the most explosive rookie RB.
He ran a 4.28 at his Pro Day, logged a 25% target share, and led the class in athleticism score and yards after contact rate.
His 22.3 MPH in-game speed also puts him in rare territory.
Now he joins a wide-open Cowboys backfield competing with inefficient vets Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders. And the Cowboys O-line remains solid after adding Tyler Booker in Round 1.
If Blue earns early passing-down work and proves he can handle more — the ceiling is massive…
Bottom Line:
Every year a few rookie RBs go WAY later than they should… and then end up winning leagues.
James. Skattebo. Blue. These 3 should be moving up your boards — and if you play Best Ball or Dynasty, now’s the time to get them before the market corrects.
Inside the Fantasy Blueprint, you’ll find my full Best Ball + Dynasty Rankings — now updated post-draft with everything you need to win.
Annual pricing is currently 42% off… but won’t last.
Make note of the key Rookie RBs - it will pay off come December…
— Sal
PS: This is your leaguemate's when you snipe one of these guys in Round 12.