Podcast Summary: FantasyPros - Fantasy Football Podcast Episode: Must-Have Running Backs | Fantasy Football Draft Picks To Target (Ep. 1653)
Release Date: August 15, 2025
Host: Scott Bogman
Guests: Joe P. Zappia, Andrew Erickson
Duration: Approximately 12 minutes

Introduction

In Episode 1653 of the FantasyPros Fantasy Football Podcast, host Scott Bogman, alongside co-host Joe P. Zappia and guest Andrew Erickson, delve into the critical topic of identifying must-have running backs (RBs) for the upcoming fantasy football drafts. The episode aims to equip fantasy managers with insights on which RBs to prioritize, potential sleepers, and strategic picks to strengthen their rosters.

Key Must-Have Running Backs

1. Bashal Tutin – Jacksonville Jaguars

Timestamp: [02:34]

Andrew Erickson champions rookie RB Bashal Tutin from the Jacksonville Jaguars as a crucial draft pick for fantasy managers. Highlighting Tutin's potential, Erickson states:

"I really want to get exposure to this rookie running back class. Bashal Tutin is the cheapest rookie running back that I can find that I feel like I can always leave my draft with." ([02:34])

Key Points:

• Draft Position: Typically available in the fourth round.
• Prospect: Handpicked by the Jaguars' new coaching staff, indicating strong initial investment.
• College Performance: Dominant at the college level with impressive metrics such as a 30% dominator rating.
• NFL Potential: Compared to Bucky Irving, suggesting high upside if current Jaguars RBs underperform.

2. Treveon Henderson – Ohio State University / New England Patriots

Timestamp: [04:04]

Joe P. Zappia emphasizes Treveon Henderson as a versatile RB option, especially in dual-back systems. He remarks:

"If you have a solid RB, Treveon Henderson, I think he's already better than Stevenson. He's explosive... a demon as a pass blocker." ([04:04])

Key Points:

• Versatility: Excels in both rushing and receiving, with 26 receptions in the last season.
• System Fit: Thrived in a two-back system at Ohio State, suggesting seamless transition to similar NFL schemes.
• Consistency: Lower risk due to reliable performance metrics, making him a safe floor option with significant upside.

3. Caleb Johnson – Pittsburgh Steelers

Timestamp: [06:55]

Andrew Erickson introduces Caleb Johnson as an ADP (Average Draft Position) climber, poised to become a key asset:

"Caleb Johnson is going to be the guy that they turn to. 6 foot 1, 224 pounds, absolutely dominant last year at the college level." ([06:55])

Key Points:

• Physical Attributes: Size and strength make him a formidable presence in the Steelers' offense.
• Opportunity: With Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren's roles clarified, Johnson is set to receive a significant share of touches.
• Projected Role: Potential RB1 upside in the second half of the season, offering great value in the sixth or seventh round.

4. Isaiah Pacheco – Kansas City Chiefs

Timestamp: [09:58]

Joe P. Zappia discusses Isaiah Pacheco as a valuable RB option, especially considering his health and team dynamics:

"He's put on weight. They didn't add another back. This team didn't go out and add Chubb or any of the backs Dobbins laying around. So I think that this tells me Pacheco is going to be their guy again." ([09:58])

Key Points:

• Health Status: Fully recovered from a fractured fibula, showing improved performance metrics post-injury.
• Team Dynamics: With minimal competition for the RB position, Pacheco is poised for increased touches in one of the NFL's most potent offenses.
• Performance Metrics: Increased weight and conditioning suggest a return to his pre-injury form, making him a reliable pick.

ADP Climbers and Strategic Picks

The hosts also touch upon RBs who are expected to rise in ADP due to favorable team situations or late-season opportunities. Andrew Erickson highlights Caleb Johnson's fit in the Steelers' offense as a prime example of an ADP climber with significant upside.

Listener Engagement and Promotions

Throughout the episode, Scott Bogman encourages listener interaction by inviting comments and subscriptions, with incentives like an A.J. Brown autographed helmet for participation. While these segments are promotional in nature, they underscore the podcast's commitment to community engagement.

Conclusion

Episode 1653 provides a comprehensive analysis of key RBs to target in fantasy football drafts, balancing proven performers with high-upside rookies and strategic sleepers. The insights from Scott Bogman, Joe P. Zappia, and Andrew Erickson offer valuable guidance for fantasy managers aiming to build a competitive roster for the 2025 season.

Notable Quotes

• Andrew Erickson on Bashal Tutin:

  "There's a special place in my heart for Bash Altutin because we made eye contact and like, we actually had a connection when I was asking him questions about making the jump to the NFL." ([02:34])

• Joe P. Zappia on Treveon Henderson:

  "Give me the upside of Treveon Henderson as my RB2. I will pick out of the next group of running backs a floor guy because you have all kinds of options." ([04:04])

• Andrew Erickson on Caleb Johnson:

  "Caleb Johnson is going to be the guy that they turn to. He's absolutely dominant last year at the college level." ([06:55])

• Joe P. Zappia on Isaiah Pacheco:

  "He's put on weight. They didn't add another back. This team didn't go out and add Chubb or any of the backs Dobbins laying around." ([09:58])

For more insights and detailed analysis, listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the FantasyPros Fantasy Football Podcast on their preferred platform.