The NFL running back landscape is shifting as veteran stars like Christian McCaffrey and Alvin Kamara face the twilight of their careers, paving the way for younger talent like Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs. Among a strong crop of emerging players are Breece Hall, Kenneth Walker, and De'Von Achane, each demonstrating potential despite being on inconsistent offenses last season. Fantasy managers need to make strategic decisions regarding these players this offseason.

Breece Hall had a promising year with the New York Jets, recovering from an ACL injury, but saw his performance decline amidst a chaotic Jets offense, ending the season as RB17. Kenneth Walker's career has been marred by injuries, limiting his potential despite flashes of brilliance, while Achane shined in Miami, particularly in his rookie season, but faced some regression in year two. For all three, savvy fantasy players must evaluate whether to buy low, hold, or sell based on their individual narratives and the teams' outlooks.

The offseason is crucial for dynasty fantasy football managers looking to enhance their rosters. Several players in the AFC have seen their value dip, making them potential buy-low candidates for managers on both sides of the rebuilding spectrum. Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson stands out, boasting significant upside despite early struggles. Likewise, New York Jets' Breece Hall offers explosive potential as he continues to recover from a tough season. Kansas City Chiefs' Isiah Pacheco, despite recent injuries, could regain his form as the lead back, complemented by emerging talents like Rashee Rice and veteran Jakobi Meyers from the Raiders, both of whom present unique opportunities for savvy managers.

The NFL offseason has sparked immense intrigue, particularly among teams facing pivotal decisions. The Cincinnati Bengals are in a fascinating position with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Both stars are crucial to the team's ambitions, especially with Burrow wanting to retain Higgins, whose impending free agency looms. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns grapple with Myles Garrett's trade request while assessing Deshaun Watson's future. The New Orleans Saints face salary cap constraints despite a coaching change, while the New England Patriots boast a staggering $110 million in cap space, presenting exciting opportunities. Lastly, the New York Jets navigate a potential overhaul under new leadership, with Aaron Rodgers' future uncertain.

The 2024 fantasy football season highlighted several high-profile running backs who fell short of expectations, turning them into significant disappointments for managers. Christian McCaffrey, drafted as the consensus number one pick, struggled with injuries and managed only four appearances, finishing as the RB68. Similarly, Breece Hall, expected to build on a stellar finish in 2023, averaged a career-low in yards and ended up at RB17. Travis Etienne Jr. also disappointed, scoring below 13 PPR points in 14 of 15 games, resulting in a finish at RB35.

Isiah Pacheco's season was marred by injury as well, returning late to finish as RB64. Raheem Mostert saw a significant decline and ended as RB58 due to competition from Tank Bigsby in the Jaguars' backfield. Lastly, Zamir White, who was anticipated to break out as the Raiders' starter, averaged less than four PPR points per game, concluding the season at RB86. These performances raise questions about their future draft viability in 2025.

The running back position is experiencing a significant resurgence in 2024, highlighted by the success of veterans such as Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, Joe Mixon, and others, who have thrived in new environments following long tenures with their previous teams. This shift serves as a reminder that veteran backs can still be pivotal difference-makers. Fantasy drafters are advised to prioritize these players in their Best Ball leagues, given the lack of ongoing roster management post-draft. Key rankings from Tiers 1-3 emphasize the importance of making informed decisions based on evolving fantasy landscapes.

Saquon Barkley, now with the Philadelphia Eagles, exceeded expectations with league-leading rushing yards and attempts, while Bijan Robinson solidified his elite status with increased touches in Atlanta. Meanwhile, Jahmyr Gibbs showcased his versatility, elevating his performance despite the presence of teammate David Montgomery. In Tier 2, emerging talents like De'Von Achane and Breece Hall also present compelling options for early-round selections as managers look to build resilient rosters capable of weathering the challenges of the season.