Podcast Summary: Fantasy Football Today – "Running Backs Preview Part Two: Complete ADP Review, Best and Worst Values"

Release Date: August 6, 2025

Hosts: Adam Aizer, Dave Richard, Jamey Eisenberg, Heath Cummings, and Crew

Introduction to Running Backs Rankings

In the second part of their running backs preview, the Fantasy Football Today team delves deep into the latest Average Draft Position (ADP) data, analyzing the best and worst values among the top running backs for the upcoming NFL season.

Top Running Backs and ADP Insights

Bijan Robinson as RB1

Adam Aizer opens the discussion by highlighting Bijan Robinson’s ascent to the top of the ADP rankings.

Adam Aizer [03:23]: "Because the guys that you could make the argument for over him have more concerns... So he's just the safest elite running back."

Despite averaging the lowest PPR fantasy points per game for an RB1 in eight years last season (19.9 PPR), Bijan’s consistent performance and reduced injury concerns have solidified his position as the premier running back in fantasy drafts.

Comparison with Other RB1 Candidates

Heath Cummings adds depth to this point by comparing Bijan with other elite running backs, emphasizing the injury histories and inconsistent performances of alternatives like Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey.

Heath Cummings [04:01]: "He's just the safest elite running back."

Jameer Gibbs and the Detroit Backfield

The conversation shifts to Detroit’s backfield dynamics, particularly the roles of Jameer Gibbs and David Montgomery.

Adam Aizer [04:28]: "Are you expecting more Gibbs than what we usually get this year?"

Jamie Eisenberg expresses optimism about Gibbs’ increased involvement in the passing game, potentially boosting his PPR value.

Jamie Eisenberg [04:35]: "I am expecting a little bit more in the passing game as well... So I am expecting Gibbs to get more work this year and he can see it."

However, Dave Richard remains cautious, noting the uncertainty surrounding Montgomery’s health and its impact on Gibbs’ workload.

Dave Richard [05:37]: "There's some... David Montgomery plays 17 games. So if that happens, then I think Jameer Gibbs could be worth the 12th pick."

Ranking Concerns: Workload, Age, and Injury History

The team assesses various concerns for top running backs:

• Saquon Barkley’s Workload: High touch volume poses both an opportunity and a risk of injury.
• Derrick Henry’s Age: At 29, questions arise about his longevity.
• Christian McCaffrey’s Injury History: Persistent injuries make him a risky early pick.

Jamey Eisenberg [06:12]: "Christian McCaffrey’s Injury History."

Devon Achan’s Hidden Value

Devon Achan is discussed as a potentially undervalued asset, with his ADP not fully reflecting his performance metrics.

Heath Cummings [06:57]: "Once you pull back the curtain, then you reveal why..."

ADP and Rankings Summary

The consensus rankings place Bijan Robinson and Saquon Barkley at the top, followed by Jameer Gibbs, Christian McCaffrey, Derrick Henry, Ashton Gentry, and Devon Achan.

Adam Aizer [15:03]: "Round one is a very running back heavy round with seven them off the board..."

News and Updates

Keenan Allen’s Move to Chargers

The signing of Keenan Allen by the Chargers for one year at $8.5 million is discussed, with mixed sentiments about his value given his age and past performance.

Heath Cummings [11:12]: "Heath Hn also."

Adjustments in Player Rankings

The team mentions lowering the rankings of players like Lamonte McConkey due to holdout concerns and performance metrics.

Jamey Eisenberg [12:41]: "Yes. Projections, yes. Rankings, no."

Mid to Late Round Running Backs Analysis

Second Tier Running Backs: Josh Jacobs, Jonathan Taylor, Bucky Irving, Kyron Williams

The group evaluates these running backs, acknowledging their potential but also highlighting their respective risks and ceilings.

Dave Richard [21:23]: "For me, the only two that I do not have in the first round currently are Genti and Henry."

Third to Fifth Tier: Chase Brown, Breece Hall, James Cook, Alvin Kamara, Ken Walker, Omarion Hampton, Chuba Hubbard, James Conner

Detailed discussions cover each player's projected performance, injury risks, and team dynamics. For instance, Ken Walker is noted for his potential improvement under a new offensive coordinator despite concerns about his injury history.

Jamey Eisenberg [45:52]: "Ken Walker has the ability... if you can stay healthy for maybe 280, 300 yards."

Late-Round Strategies and Handcuffs

The importance of drafting handcuff players and depth running backs is emphasized, with suggestions to secure backups like Ray Davis and Braylon Allen to mitigate injury risks.

Heath Cummings [75:14]: "Davis and Braylon Allen are two of my favorites."

Final Rankings and Recommendations

The team concludes with a comprehensive ranking of running backs across all draft rounds, offering strategic advice for fantasy managers aiming to build a resilient and high-performing roster.

Adam Aizer [77:15]: "Round one is a very running back heavy round with seven them off the board."

Notable Quotes

• Adam Aizer [03:23]: "He's just the safest elite running back."
• Jamie Eisenberg [04:35]: "I am expecting a little bit more in the passing game as well..."
• Heath Cummings [06:57]: "Look at the names that he's around. You can mix these guys up..."
• Jamey Eisenberg [12:41]: "Projections, yes. Rankings, no."

Conclusion

The Fantasy Football Today team provides an in-depth analysis of the running back landscape, offering valuable insights into ADP trends, player performances, and strategic drafting tips. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy manager or new to the game, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and dominate your league.

Next Episode: Tune in tomorrow as the crew shifts focus to wide receivers, continuing their comprehensive position previews to ensure you have all the tools needed to build a championship-winning fantasy football team.