LA Rams: Ranking NFC West RBs for fantasy football draft

Which NFC West RB fits your fantasy football strategy? here’s a look at the LA Rams and others

The decision of the LA Rams to release long term veteran running back Todd Gurley caused the perceived talent level of NFL West running backs to drop a little. Most Rams fans are wondering which player will fill the void left by Gurley. Now, as many as three running backs are vying to fill the position.

Perhaps as a fantasy football player, you may want to know how the Rams running backs rank against the other NFC West running backs. The days of the bulldozer type of fullback teamed with the speedster running back is becoming a distant memory. Now, the NFL is moving towards a pass-first, spread ’em out, and run the ball into the cutback lanes. Most offenses have migrated to the one-back set.

There was a time when running backs were expected to rush for over 100 yards per game. No running back rushed for 1600 yards in 2019, 2018, or 2017. Ezekiel Elliott of Dallas rushed for 1631 yards in 2016.  NFL offenses use that lone running back as an outlet receiver. Dual-threat running backs are now in fashion. They are a better fit in the new offensive philosophies. The NFC West is leading the way in transiting to the new-fangled running back.

LA Rams: Ranking the NFC West RBs for your fantasy football draft strategy

First, Seahawks Chris Carson rushed for 1230 yards with 7 touchdowns for Seattle in 2019. The Seahawks shopped in free agency and RB Carlos Hyde was added to the roster to compete for the starting job. It would be a very good idea to take either one of these running backs in your draft.

Second, 49ers Raheem Mostert ran for 772 yards with 8 touchdowns in San Francisco last season. His teammate running back Telvin Coleman rushed for 544 yards with 6 touchdowns. For now, Mostert is the better option from the San Francisco roster.

Third, the Arizona Cardinals will employ the running back-by-committee strategy. Midseason addition running back Kenyon Drake is the clear cut starter by rushing for 643 yards with 8 touchdowns in 2019. Chase Edmonds and rookie Eno Benjamin will play spot roles in the Arizona offense.

Last, LA Rams rookie running back Cam Akers was drafted by the Rams to fill Gurley’s role. Both running backs Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson could step up early into the starting position. Expect to draft Brown in your draft as he will, no doubt, be the goal line running back.

In 2020, your fantasy football team running back will get more points for you through touchdowns. Receiving and rushing yards are the key elements to guide your draft thought process. Let’s see how things play out.