Fantasy Football Today: Running Backs Preview Part 1 – Sleepers, Breakouts, Strategies and More (08/05 Fantasy Football Podcast)
Released on August 5, 2025

Introduction to Running Back Strategy

At the outset of the episode, host Adam Azer sets the stage by reflecting on the previous year's success with running backs, expressing skepticism about its repeat performance. He states, “[...] last year was absolutely sensational. But everybody's a year older now and that's one of the themes as we look at the Running back position this year” (02:12).

Player Rankings and Average Draft Positions (ADPs)

The discussion swiftly moves to player evaluations and ADPs. Adam highlights the veterans in the running back pool, mentioning key players like Devon HN (average draft position around 12th), Derrick Henry, James Conner, and Christian McCaffrey, all ranging from 29 to 31 years old. Heath Cummings adds, “I have Devon HN ranked as a top five pick” (15:14), emphasizing his value despite his age.

Jamie Eisenberg introduces his strategy centered around the "hero RB" approach, advocating for selecting a running back within the first two to three rounds to secure top-tier talent before the value diminishes in later rounds. He explains, “I like to get my receivers early and then, you know, with one running back and then sort of stock up on those other guys” (04:50).

Impact of Age on Running Backs

The aging roster of running backs is a significant concern. Hosts discuss how players like James Conner (30), Derrick Henry (31), and Alvin Kamara (30) might face decline due to their age. Heath Cummings comments, “Father Time's still undefeated” (51:44), referencing the inevitable impact of aging on performance.

Rookie Running Back Class

A strong rookie class is a beacon of hope amidst aging veterans. Jamie Eisenberg points out, “there is going to be stretches of the season where this class is dominant” (26:36). The rookies such as R.J. Harvey, Travion Henderson, and Caleb Johnson are highlighted as potential game-changers if they secure starting roles early in the season.

Draft Strategy Based on League Formats

The strategy varies significantly based on league formats—non-PPR, half PPR, and full PPR:

• Non-PPR Leagues: Emphasis is placed on running backs who are workhorses, tending to favor those who are heavily involved in the rushing game. Jamie emphasizes the importance of securing reliable running backs earlier in drafts: “In non PPR, you look for running backs certainly earlier rather than later” (46:14).

• Half PPR and Full PPR Leagues: There’s a balanced approach between running backs and wide receivers. Heath notes, “In a two receiver league you should draft running backs earlier. In a three receiver league you should draft more wide receivers earlier” (50:31).

Auction Strategies and Budget Allocation

In auction drafts, allocating budget effectively is crucial. Heath outlines his spending strategy: “I've got between 28 and 31 for Bijan HN” (51:04), indicating a significant investment in top-tier running backs. Jamie, however, prefers to allocate funds towards high-potential rookies, leaving marquee players to other managers.

Sleepers and Breakout Candidates

Identifying sleepers and breakout candidates can provide a competitive edge:

• Jamie Eisenberg’s Sleepers: Jaden Blue and Tajie Spears are highlighted as undervalued players with breakout potential, especially in flexible offensive systems.

• Heath Cummings’ Breakouts: Travion Henderson is favored as a breakout candidate, with expectations of high performance due to his role in the Patriots’ offense. Heath states, “He will break out in year one” (60:07).

Adam Azer introduces his own sleeper picks, including Isaiah Pacheco and J.K. Dobbins, arguing for their potential based on team dynamics and offensive line improvements.

Potential Busts

Hosts also caution against potential busts in the running back pool:

• Jamie Eisenberg on Saquon Barkley: Despite his talent, Jamie expresses concerns about Barkley’s efficiency and workload sustainability, labeling him as a potential bust if he doesn’t manage his touches effectively: “He’s just not somebody that I'm drafting in the first half of round one” (56:18).

• Heath Cummings on James Cook: James Cook’s inconsistent usage and injury history make him a risky pick, especially in later rounds where securing a reliable RB might be more challenging. Heath advises, “I won't take him till round four” (68:09).

Injury and Status Updates

Injuries and player statuses are pivotal in shaping draft strategies:

• Devon HN: Despite being a high draft pick, HN faces a shoulder injury that could impact his availability early in the season. Jamie comments, “If you're drafting Garendo, you're drafting him for the potential 'what if'” (30:08).

• Caleb Johnson and Travion Henderson: Heath notes the importance of monitoring training camp developments before committing to these rookies, as injuries or role shifts could significantly alter their value.

Conclusion and Preview

The episode wraps up with a brief overview of upcoming strategies to be discussed in Part 2, where detailed player analyses and ADPs will be examined. Adam Azer teases deeper dives into breakout candidates, auction strategies, and format-specific advice, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for comprehensive guidance to dominate their fantasy leagues.

Notable Quotes:

• Jamie Eisenberg: “I like to get my receivers early and then, you know, with one running back and then sort of stock up on those other guys” (04:50).

• Heath Cummings: “Father Time's still undefeated” (51:44).

• Jamie Eisenberg: “There is going to be stretches of the season where this class is dominant” (26:36).

• Heath Cummings: “He will break out in year one” (60:07).

• Jamie Eisenberg: “He’s just not somebody that I'm drafting in the first half of round one” (56:18).

This detailed preview offers fantasy football managers valuable insights into navigating the running back landscape for the 2025 season, emphasizing strategic drafting, recognizing potential sleepers, and avoiding common pitfalls.