The 2024 fantasy football season was a stark reminder of the volatile nature of the running back position.
Injuries, shifting backfield dynamics, and offensive struggles often led to frustrating underperformance from players drafted with high expectations. However, every “down” year creates a golden opportunity for the savvy fantasy owner.
As we look ahead to 2025, several talented running backs who faltered last season are now in good position for a significant resurgence. Here are seven running backs ready to see an uptick in fantasy production in 2025.
Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers): As if there would be anyone else headlining a bounce-back season article for running backs! McCaffrey’s 2024 season was marred — once again — by the dreaded “injury bug.” He suffered from Achilles tendinitis and a PCL injury that limited him to just four games. For a player who was a consensus top-overall pick, any time missed would have been devastating for fantasy managers. However, as of early 2025, McCaffrey is reportedly “at 100%” and participated fully in offseason activities. Despite concerns about age (he’s 29) and a potentially decreased workload, the 49ers traded away Jordan Mason, signaling McCaffrey remains their featured back. In Kyle Shanahan’s offense, when healthy, McCaffrey is a cheat code, dominating both rushing and receiving volume. Any lingering doubts or a depressed draft cost due to his 2024 injuries present a massive buy-low opportunity for a player with unparalleled upside.
Breece Hall (New York Jets): Hall’s 2024 fantasy season was a wild ride, with stretches of elite production mixed with frustrating inconsistency. While he finished as an RB2 in PPR, he had a drop in overall efficiency and target share compared to his breakout 2023. The integration of Justin Fields at QB for 2025 is a key factor; while Fields’ rushing could cap Hall’s upside, the improved offensive stability and attention from defenses could also open up running lanes. The Jets have also indicated a potential committee approach, but Hall remains the most talented back on the roster. If he can maintain a solid workload and the Jets’ offense as a whole takes a step forward with more consistent quarterback play, Hall’s explosiveness could easily lead to a more consistent, top-tier fantasy season.
D’Andre Swift (Chicago Bears): Swift’s 2024 fantasy performance was a mixed bag, finishing as RB19 while playing in one of the league’s worst offenses. His low touchdown rate, especially in the red zone, was a significant factor. Now in 2025, Swift is reunited with Ben Johnson, his former offensive coordinator from Detroit, who is now the head coach of the Bears. Johnson’s system is known for creating efficient rushing attacks and providing opportunities for running backs in the passing game. With an improved offensive line, the development of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, and a relatively clear path to a lead-back role, Swift is primed for positive touchdown regression and an overall increase in scoring opportunities. Unless the Bears go get another veteran to complement Swift, he’s likely headed for a heavier workload than expected.
Ken Walker III (Seattle Seahawks): Walker’s 2024 was a frustrating experience for fantasy owners, plagued by multiple injuries, including an ankle issue that ended his season. Despite showing flashes of his talent, he struggled to maintain consistent production and a lead-back role over Zach Charbonnet. Looking to 2025, a fully healthy Walker, combined with a potentially improved offensive line under a new coaching staff, offers significant upside. The Seahawks are keen to establish a strong run game, and if Walker can stay on the field, his burst and tackle-breaking ability make him a threat for big plays. His depressed draft value due to the 2024 struggles makes him an attractive target for a rebound performance.
Javonte Williams (Dallas Cowboys): Williams’ 2024 season was underwhelming as he continued to recover from his devastating 2022 knee injury. In May he said he feels “completely like myself.” Now, fully healthy and integrated into the Cowboys’ offense, Williams has the opportunity to showcase the power and elusiveness that made him a highly touted prospect. While the Cowboys might opt for a rotation, Williams is expected to be a primary back, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations. If he can regain his pre-injury form, his talent and expected role could lead to a significant fantasy bounce-back, and he can be had at relatively cheap cost.
Travis Etienne (Jacksonville Jaguars): Etienne’s 2024 was a major disappointment for fantasy owners, particularly due to a significant reduction in his touchdown production, scoring just two despite ample opportunities. He also ceded more work to Tank Bigsby. However, with a new head coach, Liam Coen, in Jacksonville for 2025, there’s optimism for a more efficient and productive offense. Coen’s verbal support for Etienne’s camp performance suggests he could regain a lead-back workload. Etienne’s explosive playmaking ability is undeniable, and he’s a prime candidate for positive touchdown regression. If the Jaguars’ offense improves as a whole and Etienne sees a larger share of high-value touches, he could easily rebound from his 2024 struggles. The addition of rookie Bhayshul Tuten is not alarming for 2025, but Bigsby’s presence still gives caution to Etienne’s ceiling.
Jaylen Warren (Pittsburgh Steelers): Warren had a disappointing 2024 season for fantasy, finishing as RB39 despite a respectable workload, primarily due to an incredibly low touchdown total (just one). He saw 23 red zone opportunities but only converted one. With Najee Harris now gone to the Los Angeles Chargers, the Steelers’ backfield dynamics have shifted. While the Steelers drafted rookie Kaleb Johnson, Warren is still expected to maintain a significant complementary role, and could even see an increased share of touches, especially in the passing game where he excels. Positive touchdown regression is almost a certainty for Warren in 2025, and with a potentially more efficient offense under Aaron Rodgers, he’s in an excellent position to provide solid RB3 value with upside.
