As it is just June, my Top 5 Running Backs for 2021 Fantasy are subject to change but regardless, I have a good idea of who I like and do not like heading into 2021.
1. Christian McCaffrey
After being drafted 1st overall in practically every Fantasy Draft last season, Christian McCaffrey ended up playing just 3 games due to injury. The season prior, however, he totaled an astounding 2,392 yards from scrimmage, justifying selecting him with the first pick in the draft. While I do not believe he will recreate those numbers, next season is looking much better for McCaffrey.
McCaffrey is an all around back and as a result, gets a lot of snaps and in turn, a lot of fantasy points. While his injury is a bit of a concern, his talent is too good to pass up on.
2. Derrick Henry
Derrick Henry has been the best Running Back in the league for the past two seasons as is evident by his back to back rushing titles. The Titans are extremely reliant on Henry and despite other teams knowing that he will get the ball, they cannot stop him. Henry improved in 2020, increasing his workload but also increasing his Yards per Carry (YPC), Yards per Game (YPG) and TD per game.
Henry is also extremely durable, missing just 2 games in his 5 year career. Henry is rarely the first Running Back off the board in my mock drafts so far but is arguably the safest option in Round 1.
3. Saqon Barkley
In his Rookie season in 2018, Barkley had an amazing 2,028 yards from scrimmage. He appeared to play much of the following season injured and in 2020, suffered a torn ACL in Week 2. Barkley is extremely versatile and haunts opposing defenses because of his speed and how difficult it is to contain him in the open field.
As he comes back from injury, Barkley is set to get almost the entire workload as his competition at RB is minimal. Additionally, the Giants added multiple good receivers in the offseason which will benefit Barkley as it will open up the offense. In an interview in February, Barkley stated that he wants to show that he is the best Running Back in the NFL and I think he could do just that in 2021.
4. Dalvin Cook
When healthy, Dalvin Cook is among the best runners in the league. He did not miss a game due to injury last season and averaged 5.0 yards per carry, both very favorable stats.
His injuries are the main reason he is not higher on this list. On average, he plays 11 games per season which is a bit worrisome for a Top 3 Fantasy pick. He may be worth the risk as he is extremely talented and when he gets hot, there are few players better than him.
5. Cam Akers
Coming off the board near the end of the first round, Cam Akers is a great value. After he suffered a rib separation in Week 2, Akers was forced to battle with injury for nearly the entire season. Despite this and despite competition at the position, Akers emerged as the RB1. His main competition was Malcom Brown, who took many of the Touchdowns and is now no longer on the team, and Darrel Henderson Jr, who lost his job to Akers as the season progressed. Akers totaled over 15 carries in each of the last 4 games and that is when he was at his best.
The fact that he was able to continue playing despite and injury and play at a high level bodes well for him and shows his durability. When he got carries, he was very consistent and has an extremely high ceiling heading into the 2021 season.
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