2025 RB Lotto Ticket Rankings (8 Viewers)

[dmac37]

Taking a deep shot at Zavier Scott with Jones on IR.

 

[themeistersinger]

Just posted in the Ollie Gordon thread but figured here would be pertinent as well.

With Jaylen Wright cleared to play tonight, who are we holding as the potential Lotto ticket/ handcuff in Miami now?

Ollie got all the hype in the preseason however thorough 2 weeks has shown very little to be positive about.

Ollie hasn't been needed yet. Fins playing from behind are going give Achane as much as he can handle.

Ollie outplayed Wright during preseason.
If Achane went down it's the Ollie show with Wright as change of pace or breather back

Gordon looked very good on TNF

 

[TVT 0 N S T A]

Blake Corum, imo, zero stand alone value. I don't really get the steady Corum drumbeat. I don't think he is much for pass blocking and McVay, more than anything, knows how important protecting Stafford is... the talent at WR for the Rams and Stafford's arm will open up the running game. I believe Corum might get some vulture TDs this year. He will get the usual 5-8 touches and has no consistent value barring injury.

My picks for dart throws, largely because I consider their chance of winning a larger share of the carries (or the primary ball carrier).

Kyle Monangai
Najee Harris
Trey Benson

You can handcuff Blake Corum or Emanuel Wilson but I am not owning them in my top 140-150 available players. Better options at WR or TE whack-a-mole than storing a guy for injury. Kyren goes down and I am not sure I am even spending 100% FAAB on Corum.

 

[Kuz]

Taking a deep shot at Zavier Scott with Jones on IR.

I heard rumblings that Cam Akers may be RB2 but not totally sure

 

[Footballdaz]

Taking a deep shot at Zavier Scott with Jones on IR.

I heard rumblings that Cam Akers may be RB2 but not totally sure

I can see that too. He knows their system already. He's not the same back he was before injury. But still has a little left in the tank..
Is Cam worth a few weeks rental though?
I'm stashing the rb from Seattle instead.
Ya never know what Charbs is dealing with.

 

[Footballdaz]

Taking a deep shot at Zavier Scott with Jones on IR.

Cam is the play.

 

[Max Power]

Jaleel McLaughlin has been a healthy scratch for two games now and I'm starting to see his name pop up as a trade candidate for teams hurting at RB. Read Denver prefers Badie due to his pass protection.

I've always liked Jaleel and he's too good to not be on an active roster in the NFL. In a deep league I just picked him up hoping for a trade now.

 

[dipandglide]

Blake Corum, imo, zero stand alone value. I don't really get the steady Corum drumbeat. I don't think he is much for pass blocking and McVay, more than anything, knows how important protecting Stafford is... the talent at WR for the Rams and Stafford's arm will open up the running game. I believe Corum might get some vulture TDs this year. He will get the usual 5-8 touches and has no consistent value barring injury.

My picks for dart throws, largely because I consider their chance of winning a larger share of the carries (or the primary ball carrier).

Kyle Monangai
Najee Harris
Trey Benson

You can handcuff Blake Corum or Emanuel Wilson but I am not owning them in my top 140-150 available players. Better options at WR or TE whack-a-mole than storing a guy for injury. Kyren goes down and I am not sure I am even spending 100% FAAB on Corum.

Corum will eat if Kyren goes down. I expect McVay to slot Corum directly into Kyren's role, and he has a chance to be more efficient and make it more of a timeshare regardless of Kyren's health. Corum's a top stash for me.

 

[Absolutely Nothing]

Blake Corum, imo, zero stand alone value. I don't really get the steady Corum drumbeat. I don't think he is much for pass blocking and McVay, more than anything, knows how important protecting Stafford is... the talent at WR for the Rams and Stafford's arm will open up the running game. I believe Corum might get some vulture TDs this year. He will get the usual 5-8 touches and has no consistent value barring injury.

My picks for dart throws, largely because I consider their chance of winning a larger share of the carries (or the primary ball carrier).

Kyle Monangai
Najee Harris
Trey Benson

You can handcuff Blake Corum or Emanuel Wilson but I am not owning them in my top 140-150 available players. Better options at WR or TE whack-a-mole than storing a guy for injury. Kyren goes down and I am not sure I am even spending 100% FAAB on Corum.

Corum will eat if Kyren goes down. I expect McVay to slot Corum directly into Kyren's role, and he has a chance to be more efficient and make it more of a timeshare regardless of Kyren's health. Corum's a top stash for me.

I agree that if Kyren goes down for he season Corum is an unload target, but I'd rather have Najee or Benson than Corum assuming Kyren never misses time an their workload remains a steady 75:25 or 70:30 split. Monangai is a toss-up though, I think he's fun to speculate on but I'd like to see him in action first before I buy into him- I think of him more as a "well he can't be any worse than Swift, right?" sort of guy. I wasn't very familiar with him as a prospect to be fair.

 

[skinsrule05]

I've had Allen stashed the last 2 weeks, but may drop him for Monangai. I prefer Allen's talent, pedigree, draft capital and offense, but they just aren't giving him the opportunities.

Ditched B. Allen for K. Monangai.

Allen hasn't been getting touches, lousy offense anyways, bye bye.

This is helpful. I have been wanting to get Monangai but didn't know who to drop. I have Allen and he is pretty worthless unless Hall goes down.

 

[RaidersAreOne]

Found myself having another roster spot now that Daniels is put on my IR slot. The WW is pretty barren but I am slightly intruiged by Washington's RBs. Should one target McNichols?

 

[Absolutely Nothing]

Found myself having another roster spot now that Daniels is put on my IR slot. The WW is pretty barren but I am slightly intruiged by Washington's RBs. Should one target McNichols?

We're in similar boats! Though I believe my wire is a little less treacherous.

I'm not sure on McNichols' upside. Bill seems to be in position to be the lead back, and it hard to tell how valuable the Commanders RB role even is at this point. Who else is kicking around?

 

[Krilons Resa]

My WW is barren and I picked up McNichols to see what happens.

However, now I’m waffling between him and Brashard Smith. Light rumblings about KC maybe looking to get him more involved. My best hope is a McKinnon role.

 

[TVT 0 N S T A]

Blake Corum, imo, zero stand alone value. I don't really get the steady Corum drumbeat. I don't think he is much for pass blocking and McVay, more than anything, knows how important protecting Stafford is... the talent at WR for the Rams and Stafford's arm will open up the running game. I believe Corum might get some vulture TDs this year. He will get the usual 5-8 touches and has no consistent value barring injury.

My picks for dart throws, largely because I consider their chance of winning a larger share of the carries (or the primary ball carrier).

Kyle Monangai
Najee Harris
Trey Benson

You can handcuff Blake Corum or Emanuel Wilson but I am not owning them in my top 140-150 available players. Better options at WR or TE whack-a-mole than storing a guy for injury. Kyren goes down and I am not sure I am even spending 100% FAAB on Corum.

Corum will eat if Kyren goes down. I expect McVay to slot Corum directly into Kyren's role, and he has a chance to be more efficient and make it more of a timeshare regardless of Kyren's health. Corum's a top stash for me.

I agree that if Kyren goes down for he season Corum is an unload target, but I'd rather have Najee or Benson than Corum assuming Kyren never misses time an their workload remains a steady 75:25 or 70:30 split. Monangai is a toss-up though, I think he's fun to speculate on but I'd like to see him in action first before I buy into him- I think of him more as a "well he can't be any worse than Swift, right?" sort of guy. I wasn't very familiar with him as a prospect to be fair.

I've just never been a guy to stash someone in case of emergency and I don't see that changing here.

You are right, if Kyren gets hurt - he is probably good but there is no guarantee this doesn't become more of a committee either.

I would rather have a crack at a guy that I think can contribute with the starter healthy - Hampton has been not good, Conner is old and "serviceable" and Swift is actually a pretty awful RB.

 

[kyoun1e]

I've had Allen stashed the last 2 weeks, but may drop him for Monangai. I prefer Allen's talent, pedigree, draft capital and offense, but they just aren't giving him the opportunities.

Ditched B. Allen for K. Monangai.

Allen hasn't been getting touches, lousy offense anyways, bye bye.

This is helpful. I have been wanting to get Monangai but didn't know who to drop. I have Allen and he is pretty worthless unless Hall goes down.

D. Swift with limited practices all week and listed as questionable. The door could be open for Monongai.

 

[bolzano]

Blake Corum, imo, zero stand alone value. I don't really get the steady Corum drumbeat. I don't think he is much for pass blocking and McVay, more than anything, knows how important protecting Stafford is... the talent at WR for the Rams and Stafford's arm will open up the running game. I believe Corum might get some vulture TDs this year. He will get the usual 5-8 touches and has no consistent value barring injury.

My picks for dart throws, largely because I consider their chance of winning a larger share of the carries (or the primary ball carrier).

Kyle Monangai
Najee Harris
Trey Benson

You can handcuff Blake Corum or Emanuel Wilson but I am not owning them in my top 140-150 available players. Better options at WR or TE whack-a-mole than storing a guy for injury. Kyren goes down and I am not sure I am even spending 100% FAAB on Corum.

Corum will eat if Kyren goes down. I expect McVay to slot Corum directly into Kyren's role, and he has a chance to be more efficient and make it more of a timeshare regardless of Kyren's health. Corum's a top stash for me.

Yep. My priority targets are potential league winners like Corum. He’s got good running talent, and he’s in an offense that has historically supported RB1 stats. IMO, outside of Allgeier and Benson, I’m not sure there’s a better stash.

Also, Corum is similar to Benson in that they both seem to have the most juice in their RM rooms. So, it’s not inconceivable that they outright supplant the incumbent as the season goes on.

 

[Chaka]

Taking a deep shot at Zavier Scott with Jones on IR.

I heard rumblings that Cam Akers may be RB2 but not totally sure

I can see that too. He knows their system already. He's not the same back he was before injury. But still has a little left in the tank..
Is Cam worth a few weeks rental though?
I'm stashing the rb from Seattle instead.
Ya never know what Charbs is dealing with.

IDK, he looked pretty good for the Vikings last year in limited action. He's had an ACL in '21 and an Achilles in '23, the fact that he played that well in '24 and is another off season removed from the injury... he could surprise a bit.

I don't see him as a league winner but, he could certainly be a flex contributor for a minute and maybe longer depending on how Aaron Jones's status.

 

[bolzano]

While I’ve been trashing him in his thread, I still think Kaleb Johnson is interesting. He’s another one who may be the best pure talent in his backfield, and Pitt’s RB environment is always fruitful.

He’s probably in Tomlin’s doghouse though. So, you’ll need to be pretty patient and/or have a deep bench.

 

[Footballdaz]

I'm stashing George Holani for heck of it. You never know strange things happen in this game.
All it takes is a Walker injury and to find out Charbs foot worse than first thought. You have a rb2..

 

[habsfan]

While I’ve been trashing him in his thread, I still think Kaleb Johnson is interesting. He’s another one who may be the best pure talent in his backfield, and Pitt’s RB environment is always fruitful.

He’s probably in Tomlin’s doghouse though. So, you’ll need to be pretty patient and/or have a deep bench.

He was dropped in my main league and I added him because my bye week crunches are still weeks away. I have room for him (until I don't).

 

[bolzano]

Steelers elevated Trey Sermon from the practice squad, which suggests that Kaleb Johnson will be a healthy scratch. Over the short to intermediate term, he’s probably gonna need an injury to Warren or Gainwell. Ugh…

 

[elbowrm]

WallTrey Benson seems like a good add to this list- Conner looks good but he’s no spring chicken, and if he misses time Benson could be $.

Of course I dropped him on Friday because I felt I needed Wan’Dale Robinson

 

[massraider]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

 

[kyoun1e]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

He looked terrible.

 

[crushedspirit]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

He looked terrible.

Dropped an easy walk in TD

 

[rockaction]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

He looked terrible.

Dropped an easy walk in TD

Bam Knight?

I'll tell you something. I could be wrong, but from what I've seen this year and last year? Trey Benson ain't it.

 

[jobarules]

Wow lots of RB upheaval this week:

• Mason SZN
• Benson gets his turn
• Hampton locked into #1 role
• Skattebo takeover
• Henderson fumblitis beneficiary
• Judkins studly

What a fantasy changing week this was.

 

[zamboni]

Wow lots of RB upheaval this week:

• Mason SZN
• Benson gets his turn
• Hampton locked into #1 role
• Skattebo takeover
• Henderson fumblitis beneficiary
• Judkins studly

What a fantasy changing week this was.

Such a big departure from last year when most of the fantasy RB world stayed largely healthy

 

[crushedspirit]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

He looked terrible.

Dropped an easy walk in TD

Bam Knight?

I'll tell you something. I could be wrong, but from what I've seen this year and last year? Trey Benson ain't it.

You may be correct, but he's going to get the first crack at it. He's broken a couple of long ones so who knows.

 

[rockaction]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

He looked terrible.

Dropped an easy walk in TD

Bam Knight?

I'll tell you something. I could be wrong, but from what I've seen this year and last year? Trey Benson ain't it.

You may be correct, but he's going to get the first crack at it. He's broken a couple of long ones so who knows.

Oh, no doubt. And I trust the club that he's better than the other two or the next available. But it still isn't too pretty. Maybe it is by advanced stats. I only have given him an eye test.

 

[crushedspirit]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

He looked terrible.

Dropped an easy walk in TD

Bam Knight?

I'll tell you something. I could be wrong, but from what I've seen this year and last year? Trey Benson ain't it.

You may be correct, but he's going to get the first crack at it. He's broken a couple of long ones so who knows.

Oh, no doubt. And I trust the club that he's better than the other two or the next available. But it still isn't too pretty. Maybe it is by advanced stats. I only have given him an eye test.

I'm not sold on him either, but did grab some stash shares. It's a wait and see scenario.

 

[rockaction]

Emari Demarcado. Why not

He looked terrible.

Dropped an easy walk in TD

Bam Knight?

I'll tell you something. I could be wrong, but from what I've seen this year and last year? Trey Benson ain't it.

You may be correct, but he's going to get the first crack at it. He's broken a couple of long ones so who knows.

Oh, no doubt. And I trust the club that he's better than the other two or the next available. But it still isn't too pretty. Maybe it is by advanced stats. I only have given him an eye test.

I'm not sold on him either, but did grab some stash shares. It's a wait and see scenario.

It was a good idea. He was one of the most logical lottery tickets you could grab. I think he's got a great chance of getting a bellcow's share. The question is whether he can do a bunch with it. He may very well be either a) good and I'm misreading it, or b) able to capitalize on volume even if he isn't that good.

We will see.

 

[Hartliner]

KingMaker RB Handcuff & RBBC List – 2025 Update (as of 9/23/2025)​

Looks like Jordan Mason is our first Kingmaker!
Highlight Trey Benson and Cam Skattebo as active pending Kingmakers?

Overview​

This is a comprehensive, team-by-team breakdown of the top KingMaker running back handcuffs and RBBC (Running Back By Committee) situations for the 2025 NFL season. The list highlights the starter, the best backup/handcuff, and the potential fantasy value of the backup if the starter is injured.
RB1/RB2/RB3 refer to standard fantasy tiers (RB1 = top 12, RB2 = 13–24, RB3 = 25–36).

Key Takeaways from Recent Discussions​

• RB injuries and volatility remain high: Many teams are dealing with RB injuries, making handcuffs more important than ever.
• RBBC situations are more common: Fewer true bellcows, more committees and split workloads.
• No major new “KingMaker” names: Most high-upside handcuffs are rookies or established backups in ambiguous situations.

I personally rank the top 10 lotto picks

1. Tyler Allgeier
2. Braelon Allen
3. Isaac Guerendo
4. Ray Davis
5. Blake Corum
6. Keaton Mitchell
7. Jaylen Wright
8. Will Shipley
9. Tyjae Spears
10. Kendre Miller

---

Suggested 2025 KingMaker/RBBC Watch List (Based on Current Trends)​

Below is a refreshed, division-by-division list.
Bolded names are the most likely “KingMakers” if the starter goes down.
“Monitor” means the situation is fluid or RBBC is likely.

---

AFC East​

• BUF:
  • Starter: James Cook
  • Handcuff: Ray Davis
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• MIA:
  • Starter: De’Von Achane
  • Handcuff: Ollie Gordon/Jaylen Wright
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• NEP:
  • Starter: Rhamondre Stevenson/TreVeyon Henderson
  • Handcuff: Antonio Gibson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• NYJ:
  • Starter: Breece Hall
  • Handcuff: Braelon Allen
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

AFC North​

• BAL:
  • Starter: Derrick Henry
  • Handcuff: Keaton Mitchell
  • Value: low-end RB2
• CIN:
  • Starter: Chase Brown
  • Handcuff: Tahj Brooks
  • Value: RB3 - the stink lines on this O w/o Burrow torpedo's value
• CLE:
  • Starter: Quinshon Judkins
  • Handcuff: Jerome Ford/Dylan Sampson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• PIT:
  • Starter: Jaylen Warren
  • Handcuff: Kenneth Gainwell/Kaleb Johnson
  • Value: Low-end RB3 / Flex

---

AFC South​

• HOU:
  • Starter: Nick Chubb
  • Handcuff: Dameon Pierce/Woody Marks
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (uncertain pecking order)
• IND:
  • Starter: Jonathan Taylor
  • Handcuff: D.J. Giddens people are sleeping on this nearly free lotto ticket. This is a good O
  • Value: RB2
• JAC:
  • Starter: Travis Etienne Jr.
  • Handcuff: Bhayshul Tuten
  • Value: Mid-range RB2
• TEN:
  • Starter: Tony Pollard
  • Handcuff: Tyjae Spears
  • Value: low-end RB2

---

AFC West​

• DEN:
  • Starter: J.K. Dobbins
  • Handcuff: RJ Harvey
  • Value: High-end RB2
• KCC:
  • Starter: Isiah Pacheco
  • Handcuff: Kareem Hunt/Brashard Smith
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• LVR:
  • Starter: Ashton Jeanty
  • Handcuff: Zamir White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad offense, RBBC)
• LAC:
  • Starter: Omarion Hampton we sorta assumed they were starter and they were drafted high
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

NFC East​

• DAL:
  • Starter: Javonte Williams
  • Handcuff: Miles Sanders/Jaydon Blue
  • Value: Mid-range RB3 (monitor Jaydon Blue for 2nd half surge)
• NYG:
  • Starter: Cam Skattebo pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Tyrone Tracy Jr.injured
  • Value: low-end RB2
• PHI:
  • Starter: Saquon Barkley
  • Handcuff: Will Shipley
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• WAS:
  • Starter: JCM "Bill"
  • Handcuff: Chris Rodriguez Jr.
  • Value: Mid-range RB3

---

NFC North​

• CHI:
  • Starter: D’Andre Swift
  • Handcuff: Kyle Monangai/Roshon Johnson
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB3
• DET:
  • Starter: Jahmyr Gibbs
  • Handcuff: David Montgomery
  • Value: High-end RB2 / Low-end RB1
• GBP:
  • Starter: Josh Jacobs
  • Handcuff: MarShawn Lloyd
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• MIN:
  • Starter: Jordan Mason Kingmaker
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-range RB2

---

NFC South​

• ATL:
  • Starter: Bijan Robinson
  • Handcuff: Tyler Allgeier
  • Value: High-end RB2
• CAR:
  • Starter: Chuba Hubbard
  • Handcuff: Rico Dowdle
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad RB room)
• NO:
  • Starter: Alvin Kamara
  • Handcuff: Kendre Miller
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC threat)
• TBB:
  • Starter: Bucky Irving
  • Handcuff: Rachaad White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3

---

NFC West​

• ARI:
  • Starter: Trey Benson pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Emari Demercado
  • Value: Mid-to-low RB2
• LAR:
  • Starter: Kyren Williams
  • Handcuff: Blake Corum
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• SF:
  • Starter: Christian McCaffrey
  • Handcuff: Brian Robinson/Isaac Guerendo
  • Value: Elite RB1 potential
• SEA:
  • Starter: Kenneth Walker III
  • Handcuff: Zach Charbonnet
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

19 in total.

 

[taylormeetstheismann]

Monitoring RBs that are one injury away from a starting role is about one of the most important things I can do week to week. Subscribed.

 

[in2win]

While I’ve been trashing him in his thread, I still think Kaleb Johnson is interesting. He’s another one who may be the best pure talent in his backfield, and Pitt’s RB environment is always fruitful.

He’s probably in Tomlin’s doghouse though. So, you’ll need to be pretty patient and/or have a deep bench.

Jaylen Warren has looked really good and the team has been raving about him. He doesn't go down on first contact and runs hard.

That being said, the way he has been running could easily lead to an injury. Guy has taken some hits.

It still seems the team doesn't trust Johnson but I see him getting implemented more as the season goes on. If an injury occurs they won't have much of a choice

 

[OldMilwaukee]

I'll comment on the team I know best.

IMO Ray Davis value would be a low end RB2/high end RB3.

Ty Johnson has almost double his snap counts to date, and Josh Allen has publicly stated that Ty is "no doubt the best 3rd down running back in the league".
Josh usually gets what he wants.

I personally have been selling Davis to many of the other guys you have listed above.

 

[the spanker]

KingMaker RB Handcuff & RBBC List – 2025 Update (as of 9/23/2025)​

Looks like Jordan Mason is our first Kingmaker!
Highlight Trey Benson and Cam Skattebo as active pending Kingmakers?

Overview​

This is a comprehensive, team-by-team breakdown of the top KingMaker running back handcuffs and RBBC (Running Back By Committee) situations for the 2025 NFL season. The list highlights the starter, the best backup/handcuff, and the potential fantasy value of the backup if the starter is injured.
RB1/RB2/RB3 refer to standard fantasy tiers (RB1 = top 12, RB2 = 13–24, RB3 = 25–36).

Key Takeaways from Recent Discussions​

• RB injuries and volatility remain high: Many teams are dealing with RB injuries, making handcuffs more important than ever.
• RBBC situations are more common: Fewer true bellcows, more committees and split workloads.
• No major new “KingMaker” names: Most high-upside handcuffs are rookies or established backups in ambiguous situations.

I personally rank the top 10 lotto picks

1. Tyler Allgeier
2. Braelon Allen
3. Isaac Guerendo
4. Ray Davis
5. Blake Corum
6. Keaton Mitchell
7. Jaylen Wright
8. Will Shipley
9. Tyjae Spears
10. Kendre Miller

---

Suggested 2025 KingMaker/RBBC Watch List (Based on Current Trends)​

Below is a refreshed, division-by-division list.
Bolded names are the most likely “KingMakers” if the starter goes down.
“Monitor” means the situation is fluid or RBBC is likely.

---

AFC East​

• BUF:
  • Starter: James Cook
  • Handcuff: Ray Davis
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• MIA:
  • Starter: De’Von Achane
  • Handcuff: Ollie Gordon/Jaylen Wright
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• NEP:
  • Starter: Rhamondre Stevenson/TreVeyon Henderson
  • Handcuff: Antonio Gibson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• NYJ:
  • Starter: Breece Hall
  • Handcuff: Braelon Allen
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

AFC North​

• BAL:
  • Starter: Derrick Henry
  • Handcuff: Keaton Mitchell
  • Value: low-end RB2
• CIN:
  • Starter: Chase Brown
  • Handcuff: Tahj Brooks
  • Value: RB3 - the stink lines on this O w/o Burrow torpedo's value
• CLE:
  • Starter: Quinshon Judkins
  • Handcuff: Jerome Ford/Dylan Sampson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• PIT:
  • Starter: Jaylen Warren
  • Handcuff: Kenneth Gainwell/Kaleb Johnson
  • Value: Low-end RB3 / Flex

---

AFC South​

• HOU:
  • Starter: Nick Chubb
  • Handcuff: Dameon Pierce/Woody Marks
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (uncertain pecking order)
• IND:
  • Starter: Jonathan Taylor
  • Handcuff: D.J. Giddens people are sleeping on this nearly free lotto ticket. This is a good O
  • Value: RB2
• JAC:
  • Starter: Travis Etienne Jr.
  • Handcuff: Bhayshul Tuten
  • Value: Mid-range RB2
• TEN:
  • Starter: Tony Pollard
  • Handcuff: Tyjae Spears
  • Value: low-end RB2

---

AFC West​

• DEN:
  • Starter: J.K. Dobbins
  • Handcuff: RJ Harvey
  • Value: High-end RB2
• KCC:
  • Starter: Isiah Pacheco
  • Handcuff: Kareem Hunt/Brashard Smith
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• LVR:
  • Starter: Ashton Jeanty
  • Handcuff: Zamir White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad offense, RBBC)
• LAC:
  • Starter: Omarion Hampton we sorta assumed they were starter and they were drafted high
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

NFC East​

• DAL:
  • Starter: Javonte Williams
  • Handcuff: Miles Sanders/Jaydon Blue
  • Value: Mid-range RB3 (monitor Jaydon Blue for 2nd half surge)
• NYG:
  • Starter: Cam Skattebo pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Tyrone Tracy Jr.injured
  • Value: low-end RB2
• PHI:
  • Starter: Saquon Barkley
  • Handcuff: Will Shipley
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• WAS:
  • Starter: JCM "Bill"
  • Handcuff: Chris Rodriguez Jr.
  • Value: Mid-range RB3

---

NFC North​

• CHI:
  • Starter: D’Andre Swift
  • Handcuff: Kyle Monangai/Roshon Johnson
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB3
• DET:
  • Starter: Jahmyr Gibbs
  • Handcuff: David Montgomery
  • Value: High-end RB2 / Low-end RB1
• GBP:
  • Starter: Josh Jacobs
  • Handcuff: MarShawn Lloyd
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• MIN:
  • Starter: Jordan Mason Kingmaker
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-range RB2

---

NFC South​

• ATL:
  • Starter: Bijan Robinson
  • Handcuff: Tyler Allgeier
  • Value: High-end RB2
• CAR:
  • Starter: Chuba Hubbard
  • Handcuff: Rico Dowdle
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad RB room)
• NO:
  • Starter: Alvin Kamara
  • Handcuff: Kendre Miller
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC threat)
• TBB:
  • Starter: Bucky Irving
  • Handcuff: Rachaad White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3

---

NFC West​

• ARI:
  • Starter: Trey Benson pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Emari Demercado
  • Value: Mid-to-low RB2
• LAR:
  • Starter: Kyren Williams
  • Handcuff: Blake Corum
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• SF:
  • Starter: Christian McCaffrey
  • Handcuff: Isaac Guerendo
  • Value: Elite RB1 potential
• SEA:
  • Starter: Kenneth Walker III
  • Handcuff: Zach Charbonnet
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

19 in total.

Hmmm...are you sure Gurrendo is the direct handcuff to CMC?

 

[Chaka]

1. Tyler Allgeier
2. Braelon Allen
3. Isaac Guerendo
4. Ray Davis
5. Blake Corum
6. Keaton Mitchell
7. Jaylen Wright
8. Will Shipley
9. Tyjae Spears
10. Kendre Miller

Great work as always, thanks for the effort.

I am curious about a few of these. Why Guerendo and not Robinson? Guerendo hasn't handled an offensive snap in three games, Robinson looks like the clear backup for CMC.

I know Keaton Mitchell is a popular pick but, he's been a healthy scratch all three games. He has played special teams in '23 (28%) & '24 (19%) so I am not sure why he is a healthy scratch so far (in favor of another STer at a different position). If something happens to Henry he would have a role on offense but, I wonder in what capacity. I think Justice Hill may be a bigger part of the offense in that scenario than most of us want to believe.

Also a bit surprised Woody Marks doesn't make your top 10 but Braelon Allen does. They're both seeing 29% of the offensive snaps and, IMO, Marks has a clearer path to relevance on, what should be a better offense.

Jaylen Wright over Ollie Gordon seems a little suspect too. It really feels like the Dolphins like Gordon a lot and Wright has been an afterthought.

 

[bolzano]

While I’ve been trashing him in his thread, I still think Kaleb Johnson is interesting. He’s another one who may be the best pure talent in his backfield, and Pitt’s RB environment is always fruitful.

He’s probably in Tomlin’s doghouse though. So, you’ll need to be pretty patient and/or have a deep bench.

Jaylen Warren has looked really good and the team has been raving about him. He doesn't go down on first contact and runs hard.

That being said, the way he has been running could easily lead to an injury. Guy has taken some hits.

It still seems the team doesn't trust Johnson but I see him getting implemented more as the season goes on. If an injury occurs they won't have much of a choice

Yeah, Warren is a solid RB. But, he’s not a supreme talent like Bijan, Cook, or Achane. So it’s not inconceivable that he gets Wally Pipped and Kaleb takes over in the second half of the season. Some of the other handcuffs being talked about (e.g., Allgeier, Davis, Gordon) really need season ending injuries to the starters for their lotto tix to hit.

 

[Hartliner]

1. Tyler Allgeier
2. Braelon Allen
3. Isaac Guerendo
4. Ray Davis
5. Blake Corum
6. Keaton Mitchell
7. Jaylen Wright
8. Will Shipley
9. Tyjae Spears
10. Kendre Miller

Great work as always, thanks for the effort.

I am curious about a few of these. Why Guerendo and not Robinson? Guerendo hasn't handled an offensive snap in three games, Robinson looks like the clear backup for CMC.

I know Keaton Mitchell is a popular pick but, he's been a healthy scratch all three games. He has played special teams in '23 (28%) & '24 (19%) so I am not sure why he is a healthy scratch so far (in favor of another STer at a different position). If something happens to Henry he would have a role on offense but, I wonder in what capacity. I think Justice Hill may be a bigger part of the offense in that scenario than most of us want to believe.

Also a bit surprised Woody Marks doesn't make your top 10 but Braelon Allen does. They're both seeing 29% of the offensive snaps and, IMO, Marks has a clearer path to relevance on, what should be a better offense.

Jaylen Wright over Ollie Gordon seems a little suspect too. It really feels like the Dolphins like Gordon a lot and Wright has been an afterthought.

I'm stubborn when it comes to Keaton Mitchell and Jaylen Wright- to me they have the speed and I see Chris Johnson type breakouts if things line up.

Justice Hill is ho hum and I remember he and Gus Edwards had opportunity and it was bad. Now Hill is older and it just seems like a not worth the return on the lotto. Ollie is fine but he is more Goalline/between the tackles and I don't think that works with Dolphins O currently- maybe if they were more competent. but Jaylen Wright can just house TDs with the elite speed.

I like Guerrendo more since they are a free lotto? I am a CMC owner and I missed out on RBOB since they were drafted in the 8th round and then downgraded to a handcuff- so it is a weird situation where they don't seem like a lotto pick- same for why David Montgomery is not listed. I said lotto should be more or less free. If BROB is avail get him

Woody Marks seems more of a COP receiving back and not a 3 down back to me. Also the team O line is not doing any favors.

I definitely have bias. but the very first post has the loose definitions of what I call lotto picks and what it means, Basically they got to be cheap and "free" /easily obtained.

 

[jm192]

While I’ve been trashing him in his thread, I still think Kaleb Johnson is interesting. He’s another one who may be the best pure talent in his backfield, and Pitt’s RB environment is always fruitful.

He’s probably in Tomlin’s doghouse though. So, you’ll need to be pretty patient and/or have a deep bench.

Jaylen Warren has looked really good and the team has been raving about him. He doesn't go down on first contact and runs hard.

That being said, the way he has been running could easily lead to an injury. Guy has taken some hits.

It still seems the team doesn't trust Johnson but I see him getting implemented more as the season goes on. If an injury occurs they won't have much of a choice

Yeah, Warren is a solid RB. But, he’s not a supreme talent like Bijan, Cook, or Achane. So it’s not inconceivable that he gets Wally Pipped and Kaleb takes over in the second half of the season. Some of the other handcuffs being talked about (e.g., Allgeier, Davis, Gordon) really need season ending injuries to the starters for their lotto tix to hit.

Anything can happen. But

One guy is trusted to block for Aaron Rodgers and get the bullk of the carries.

One guy was just inactive after losing a game for not knowing how to play a kick off.

 

[Runkle]

Aaron Jones was dropped in my league. I know everyone's excited about the dawning of the new age with Jordan Mason. But does Jones have any value once he's off IR?

 

[FGITLOTR]

KingMaker RB Handcuff & RBBC List – 2025 Update (as of 9/23/2025)​

Looks like Jordan Mason is our first Kingmaker!
Highlight Trey Benson and Cam Skattebo as active pending Kingmakers?

Overview​

This is a comprehensive, team-by-team breakdown of the top KingMaker running back handcuffs and RBBC (Running Back By Committee) situations for the 2025 NFL season. The list highlights the starter, the best backup/handcuff, and the potential fantasy value of the backup if the starter is injured.
RB1/RB2/RB3 refer to standard fantasy tiers (RB1 = top 12, RB2 = 13–24, RB3 = 25–36).

Key Takeaways from Recent Discussions​

• RB injuries and volatility remain high: Many teams are dealing with RB injuries, making handcuffs more important than ever.
• RBBC situations are more common: Fewer true bellcows, more committees and split workloads.
• No major new “KingMaker” names: Most high-upside handcuffs are rookies or established backups in ambiguous situations.

I personally rank the top 10 lotto picks

1. Tyler Allgeier
2. Braelon Allen
3. Isaac Guerendo
4. Ray Davis
5. Blake Corum
6. Keaton Mitchell
7. Jaylen Wright
8. Will Shipley
9. Tyjae Spears
10. Kendre Miller

---

Suggested 2025 KingMaker/RBBC Watch List (Based on Current Trends)​

Below is a refreshed, division-by-division list.
Bolded names are the most likely “KingMakers” if the starter goes down.
“Monitor” means the situation is fluid or RBBC is likely.

---

AFC East​

• BUF:
  • Starter: James Cook
  • Handcuff: Ray Davis
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• MIA:
  • Starter: De’Von Achane
  • Handcuff: Ollie Gordon/Jaylen Wright
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• NEP:
  • Starter: Rhamondre Stevenson/TreVeyon Henderson
  • Handcuff: Antonio Gibson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• NYJ:
  • Starter: Breece Hall
  • Handcuff: Braelon Allen
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

AFC North​

• BAL:
  • Starter: Derrick Henry
  • Handcuff: Keaton Mitchell
  • Value: low-end RB2
• CIN:
  • Starter: Chase Brown
  • Handcuff: Tahj Brooks
  • Value: RB3 - the stink lines on this O w/o Burrow torpedo's value
• CLE:
  • Starter: Quinshon Judkins
  • Handcuff: Jerome Ford/Dylan Sampson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• PIT:
  • Starter: Jaylen Warren
  • Handcuff: Kenneth Gainwell/Kaleb Johnson
  • Value: Low-end RB3 / Flex

---

AFC South​

• HOU:
  • Starter: Nick Chubb
  • Handcuff: Dameon Pierce/Woody Marks
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (uncertain pecking order)
• IND:
  • Starter: Jonathan Taylor
  • Handcuff: D.J. Giddens people are sleeping on this nearly free lotto ticket. This is a good O
  • Value: RB2
• JAC:
  • Starter: Travis Etienne Jr.
  • Handcuff: Bhayshul Tuten
  • Value: Mid-range RB2
• TEN:
  • Starter: Tony Pollard
  • Handcuff: Tyjae Spears
  • Value: low-end RB2

---

AFC West​

• DEN:
  • Starter: J.K. Dobbins
  • Handcuff: RJ Harvey
  • Value: High-end RB2
• KCC:
  • Starter: Isiah Pacheco
  • Handcuff: Kareem Hunt/Brashard Smith
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• LVR:
  • Starter: Ashton Jeanty
  • Handcuff: Zamir White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad offense, RBBC)
• LAC:
  • Starter: Omarion Hampton we sorta assumed they were starter and they were drafted high
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

NFC East​

• DAL:
  • Starter: Javonte Williams
  • Handcuff: Miles Sanders/Jaydon Blue
  • Value: Mid-range RB3 (monitor Jaydon Blue for 2nd half surge)
• NYG:
  • Starter: Cam Skattebo pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Tyrone Tracy Jr.injured
  • Value: low-end RB2
• PHI:
  • Starter: Saquon Barkley
  • Handcuff: Will Shipley
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• WAS:
  • Starter: JCM "Bill"
  • Handcuff: Chris Rodriguez Jr.
  • Value: Mid-range RB3

---

NFC North​

• CHI:
  • Starter: D’Andre Swift
  • Handcuff: Kyle Monangai/Roshon Johnson
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB3
• DET:
  • Starter: Jahmyr Gibbs
  • Handcuff: David Montgomery
  • Value: High-end RB2 / Low-end RB1
• GBP:
  • Starter: Josh Jacobs
  • Handcuff: MarShawn Lloyd
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• MIN:
  • Starter: Jordan Mason Kingmaker
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-range RB2

---

NFC South​

• ATL:
  • Starter: Bijan Robinson
  • Handcuff: Tyler Allgeier
  • Value: High-end RB2
• CAR:
  • Starter: Chuba Hubbard
  • Handcuff: Rico Dowdle
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad RB room)
• NO:
  • Starter: Alvin Kamara
  • Handcuff: Kendre Miller
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC threat)
• TBB:
  • Starter: Bucky Irving
  • Handcuff: Rachaad White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3

---

NFC West​

• ARI:
  • Starter: Trey Benson pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Emari Demercado
  • Value: Mid-to-low RB2
• LAR:
  • Starter: Kyren Williams
  • Handcuff: Blake Corum
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• SF:
  • Starter: Christian McCaffrey
  • Handcuff: Isaac Guerendo
  • Value: Elite RB1 potential
• SEA:
  • Starter: Kenneth Walker III
  • Handcuff: Zach Charbonnet
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

19 in total.

Hmmm...are you sure Gurrendo is the direct handcuff to CMC?

jordan james?

 

[Chaka]

KingMaker RB Handcuff & RBBC List – 2025 Update (as of 9/23/2025)​

Looks like Jordan Mason is our first Kingmaker!
Highlight Trey Benson and Cam Skattebo as active pending Kingmakers?

Overview​

This is a comprehensive, team-by-team breakdown of the top KingMaker running back handcuffs and RBBC (Running Back By Committee) situations for the 2025 NFL season. The list highlights the starter, the best backup/handcuff, and the potential fantasy value of the backup if the starter is injured.
RB1/RB2/RB3 refer to standard fantasy tiers (RB1 = top 12, RB2 = 13–24, RB3 = 25–36).

Key Takeaways from Recent Discussions​

• RB injuries and volatility remain high: Many teams are dealing with RB injuries, making handcuffs more important than ever.
• RBBC situations are more common: Fewer true bellcows, more committees and split workloads.
• No major new “KingMaker” names: Most high-upside handcuffs are rookies or established backups in ambiguous situations.

I personally rank the top 10 lotto picks

1. Tyler Allgeier
2. Braelon Allen
3. Isaac Guerendo
4. Ray Davis
5. Blake Corum
6. Keaton Mitchell
7. Jaylen Wright
8. Will Shipley
9. Tyjae Spears
10. Kendre Miller

---

Suggested 2025 KingMaker/RBBC Watch List (Based on Current Trends)​

Below is a refreshed, division-by-division list.
Bolded names are the most likely “KingMakers” if the starter goes down.
“Monitor” means the situation is fluid or RBBC is likely.

---

AFC East​

• BUF:
  • Starter: James Cook
  • Handcuff: Ray Davis
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• MIA:
  • Starter: De’Von Achane
  • Handcuff: Ollie Gordon/Jaylen Wright
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• NEP:
  • Starter: Rhamondre Stevenson/TreVeyon Henderson
  • Handcuff: Antonio Gibson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• NYJ:
  • Starter: Breece Hall
  • Handcuff: Braelon Allen
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

AFC North​

• BAL:
  • Starter: Derrick Henry
  • Handcuff: Keaton Mitchell
  • Value: low-end RB2
• CIN:
  • Starter: Chase Brown
  • Handcuff: Tahj Brooks
  • Value: RB3 - the stink lines on this O w/o Burrow torpedo's value
• CLE:
  • Starter: Quinshon Judkins
  • Handcuff: Jerome Ford/Dylan Sampson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• PIT:
  • Starter: Jaylen Warren
  • Handcuff: Kenneth Gainwell/Kaleb Johnson
  • Value: Low-end RB3 / Flex

---

AFC South​

• HOU:
  • Starter: Nick Chubb
  • Handcuff: Dameon Pierce/Woody Marks
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (uncertain pecking order)
• IND:
  • Starter: Jonathan Taylor
  • Handcuff: D.J. Giddens people are sleeping on this nearly free lotto ticket. This is a good O
  • Value: RB2
• JAC:
  • Starter: Travis Etienne Jr.
  • Handcuff: Bhayshul Tuten
  • Value: Mid-range RB2
• TEN:
  • Starter: Tony Pollard
  • Handcuff: Tyjae Spears
  • Value: low-end RB2

---

AFC West​

• DEN:
  • Starter: J.K. Dobbins
  • Handcuff: RJ Harvey
  • Value: High-end RB2
• KCC:
  • Starter: Isiah Pacheco
  • Handcuff: Kareem Hunt/Brashard Smith
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• LVR:
  • Starter: Ashton Jeanty
  • Handcuff: Zamir White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad offense, RBBC)
• LAC:
  • Starter: Omarion Hampton we sorta assumed they were starter and they were drafted high
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

NFC East​

• DAL:
  • Starter: Javonte Williams
  • Handcuff: Miles Sanders/Jaydon Blue
  • Value: Mid-range RB3 (monitor Jaydon Blue for 2nd half surge)
• NYG:
  • Starter: Cam Skattebo pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Tyrone Tracy Jr.injured
  • Value: low-end RB2
• PHI:
  • Starter: Saquon Barkley
  • Handcuff: Will Shipley
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• WAS:
  • Starter: JCM "Bill"
  • Handcuff: Chris Rodriguez Jr.
  • Value: Mid-range RB3

---

NFC North​

• CHI:
  • Starter: D’Andre Swift
  • Handcuff: Kyle Monangai/Roshon Johnson
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB3
• DET:
  • Starter: Jahmyr Gibbs
  • Handcuff: David Montgomery
  • Value: High-end RB2 / Low-end RB1
• GBP:
  • Starter: Josh Jacobs
  • Handcuff: MarShawn Lloyd
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• MIN:
  • Starter: Jordan Mason Kingmaker
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-range RB2

---

NFC South​

• ATL:
  • Starter: Bijan Robinson
  • Handcuff: Tyler Allgeier
  • Value: High-end RB2
• CAR:
  • Starter: Chuba Hubbard
  • Handcuff: Rico Dowdle
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad RB room)
• NO:
  • Starter: Alvin Kamara
  • Handcuff: Kendre Miller
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC threat)
• TBB:
  • Starter: Bucky Irving
  • Handcuff: Rachaad White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3

---

NFC West​

• ARI:
  • Starter: Trey Benson pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Emari Demercado
  • Value: Mid-to-low RB2
• LAR:
  • Starter: Kyren Williams
  • Handcuff: Blake Corum
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• SF:
  • Starter: Christian McCaffrey
  • Handcuff: Isaac Guerendo
  • Value: Elite RB1 potential
• SEA:
  • Starter: Kenneth Walker III
  • Handcuff: Zach Charbonnet
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

19 in total.

Hmmm...are you sure Gurrendo is the direct handcuff to CMC?

jordan james?

Without question it's Brian Robinson. Guerrendo is certainly in line for work if something happens to CMC but, Robinson seems to be the clear handcuff.

 

[bolzano]

While I’ve been trashing him in his thread, I still think Kaleb Johnson is interesting. He’s another one who may be the best pure talent in his backfield, and Pitt’s RB environment is always fruitful.

He’s probably in Tomlin’s doghouse though. So, you’ll need to be pretty patient and/or have a deep bench.

Jaylen Warren has looked really good and the team has been raving about him. He doesn't go down on first contact and runs hard.

That being said, the way he has been running could easily lead to an injury. Guy has taken some hits.

It still seems the team doesn't trust Johnson but I see him getting implemented more as the season goes on. If an injury occurs they won't have much of a choice

Yeah, Warren is a solid RB. But, he’s not a supreme talent like Bijan, Cook, or Achane. So it’s not inconceivable that he gets Wally Pipped and Kaleb takes over in the second half of the season. Some of the other handcuffs being talked about (e.g., Allgeier, Davis, Gordon) really need season ending injuries to the starters for their lotto tix to hit.

Anything can happen. But

One guy is trusted to block for Aaron Rodgers and get the bullk of the carries.

One guy was just inactive after losing a game for not knowing how to play a kick off.

To be clear, he wasn’t officially inactive. He dressed for the game. He just didn’t play.

But, yes, he’s in the doghouse. So, as I said above, he’s a stash only if you’re in a deeper league and can exercise some patience.

I think this highlights the biggest problem with this year’s crop of RB lotto tix: Most of the good ones were drafted and have been held onto. Moreover, a bunch of them hit (Judkins, Mason, Skattebo, Benson, JCM, etc.) before people lost patience and dropped them. So whats left on the WW are guys with major warts.

 

[sushinsky4tsar]

KingMaker RB Handcuff & RBBC List – 2025 Update (as of 9/23/2025)​

Looks like Jordan Mason is our first Kingmaker!
Highlight Trey Benson and Cam Skattebo as active pending Kingmakers?

Overview​

This is a comprehensive, team-by-team breakdown of the top KingMaker running back handcuffs and RBBC (Running Back By Committee) situations for the 2025 NFL season. The list highlights the starter, the best backup/handcuff, and the potential fantasy value of the backup if the starter is injured.
RB1/RB2/RB3 refer to standard fantasy tiers (RB1 = top 12, RB2 = 13–24, RB3 = 25–36).

Key Takeaways from Recent Discussions​

• RB injuries and volatility remain high: Many teams are dealing with RB injuries, making handcuffs more important than ever.
• RBBC situations are more common: Fewer true bellcows, more committees and split workloads.
• No major new “KingMaker” names: Most high-upside handcuffs are rookies or established backups in ambiguous situations.

I personally rank the top 10 lotto picks

1. Tyler Allgeier
2. Braelon Allen
3. Isaac Guerendo
4. Ray Davis
5. Blake Corum
6. Keaton Mitchell
7. Jaylen Wright
8. Will Shipley
9. Tyjae Spears
10. Kendre Miller

---

Suggested 2025 KingMaker/RBBC Watch List (Based on Current Trends)​

Below is a refreshed, division-by-division list.
Bolded names are the most likely “KingMakers” if the starter goes down.
“Monitor” means the situation is fluid or RBBC is likely.

---

AFC East​

• BUF:
  • Starter: James Cook
  • Handcuff: Ray Davis
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• MIA:
  • Starter: De’Von Achane
  • Handcuff: Ollie Gordon/Jaylen Wright
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• NEP:
  • Starter: Rhamondre Stevenson/TreVeyon Henderson
  • Handcuff: Antonio Gibson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• NYJ:
  • Starter: Breece Hall
  • Handcuff: Braelon Allen
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

AFC North​

• BAL:
  • Starter: Derrick Henry
  • Handcuff: Keaton Mitchell
  • Value: low-end RB2
• CIN:
  • Starter: Chase Brown
  • Handcuff: Tahj Brooks
  • Value: RB3 - the stink lines on this O w/o Burrow torpedo's value
• CLE:
  • Starter: Quinshon Judkins
  • Handcuff: Jerome Ford/Dylan Sampson
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC likely)
• PIT:
  • Starter: Jaylen Warren
  • Handcuff: Kenneth Gainwell/Kaleb Johnson
  • Value: Low-end RB3 / Flex

---

AFC South​

• HOU:
  • Starter: Nick Chubb
  • Handcuff: Dameon Pierce/Woody Marks
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (uncertain pecking order)
• IND:
  • Starter: Jonathan Taylor
  • Handcuff: D.J. Giddens people are sleeping on this nearly free lotto ticket. This is a good O
  • Value: RB2
• JAC:
  • Starter: Travis Etienne Jr.
  • Handcuff: Bhayshul Tuten
  • Value: Mid-range RB2
• TEN:
  • Starter: Tony Pollard
  • Handcuff: Tyjae Spears
  • Value: low-end RB2

---

AFC West​

• DEN:
  • Starter: J.K. Dobbins
  • Handcuff: RJ Harvey
  • Value: High-end RB2
• KCC:
  • Starter: Isiah Pacheco
  • Handcuff: Kareem Hunt/Brashard Smith
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• LVR:
  • Starter: Ashton Jeanty
  • Handcuff: Zamir White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad offense, RBBC)
• LAC:
  • Starter: Omarion Hampton we sorta assumed they were starter and they were drafted high
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

---

NFC East​

• DAL:
  • Starter: Javonte Williams
  • Handcuff: Miles Sanders/Jaydon Blue
  • Value: Mid-range RB3 (monitor Jaydon Blue for 2nd half surge)
• NYG:
  • Starter: Cam Skattebo pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Tyrone Tracy Jr.injured
  • Value: low-end RB2
• PHI:
  • Starter: Saquon Barkley
  • Handcuff: Will Shipley
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• WAS:
  • Starter: JCM "Bill"
  • Handcuff: Chris Rodriguez Jr.
  • Value: Mid-range RB3

---

NFC North​

• CHI:
  • Starter: D’Andre Swift
  • Handcuff: Kyle Monangai/Roshon Johnson
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB3
• DET:
  • Starter: Jahmyr Gibbs
  • Handcuff: David Montgomery
  • Value: High-end RB2 / Low-end RB1
• GBP:
  • Starter: Josh Jacobs
  • Handcuff: MarShawn Lloyd
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3
• MIN:
  • Starter: Jordan Mason Kingmaker
  • Handcuff:
  • Value: Mid-range RB2

---

NFC South​

• ATL:
  • Starter: Bijan Robinson
  • Handcuff: Tyler Allgeier
  • Value: High-end RB2
• CAR:
  • Starter: Chuba Hubbard
  • Handcuff: Rico Dowdle
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (bad RB room)
• NO:
  • Starter: Alvin Kamara
  • Handcuff: Kendre Miller
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3 (RBBC threat)
• TBB:
  • Starter: Bucky Irving
  • Handcuff: Rachaad White
  • Value: Low-end RB2 / High-end RB3

---

NFC West​

• ARI:
  • Starter: Trey Benson pending Kingmaker?
  • Handcuff: Emari Demercado
  • Value: Mid-to-low RB2
• LAR:
  • Starter: Kyren Williams
  • Handcuff: Blake Corum
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2
• SF:
  • Starter: Christian McCaffrey
  • Handcuff: Isaac Guerendo
  • Value: Elite RB1 potential
• SEA:
  • Starter: Kenneth Walker III
  • Handcuff: Zach Charbonnet
  • Value: Mid-to-high RB2

19 in total.

Hmmm...are you sure Gurrendo is the direct handcuff to CMC?

jordan james?

I have not heard a mouse fart since he returned from injury. Obviously, 5th round pick injured in camp that's buried for as long as CMC is healthy. I'm really counting on any of the 49ers fans on this thread to sound the alarm if they start hearing whispers of positivity or passing up Guerendo as the the preferred next man up behind B-Rob.

The reality is that I'm going to pounce hard the next time CMC enters a death spiral. I want to bet on him even if he's perceived as the distant # 3 behind Robinson and Guerendo -- unless I hear reasons that I shouldn't. Conversely, I'll gladly fork over the roster spot now with CMC healthy if there's any whiff of positivity from the coaching staff / beat writers.

 

[brewer]

Aaron Jones was dropped in my league. I know everyone's excited about the dawning of the new age with Jordan Mason. But does Jones have any value once he's off IR?

Of course he does. If healthy, he will have a role for sure and it's also not like Mason hasn't missed games as well.

 

[sushinsky4tsar]

I know this one is icky, but considering the offense, don't we have to either give Haskins or Vidal consideration or identify an inmate that makes the most sense in a trade?

More generally, we should probably come up with a list of guys that wouldn't be a shock if they got traded before the week 9 deadline.

Expendable 2s
Rachaad White
Rico Dowdle
Jerome Ford
Miles Sanders
Justice Hill
Kenny Gainwell
Emanuel Wilson
Zamir White
Antonio Gibson

Buried 3s/4s
Sean Tucker
Roschon Johnson
Dameon Pierce
Devin Singletary
Jaleel McLaughlin
Elijah Mitchell
Raheem Mostert
Chris Brooks
AJ Dillon
Raheim Sanders -- he really needed to stay on the Chargers

 

[bolzano]

Bloom and Lammey mentioned Brashard Smith as the next best RB add after Benson. Granted, they did say it’s a bad week for the WW. But, it opened my eyes nonetheless.

 

[the spanker]

Bloom and Lammey mentioned Brashard Smith as the next best RB add after Benson. Granted, they did say it’s a bad week for the WW. But, it opened my eyes nonetheless.

They play in a deep league? Not sure how to quantify that without format/roster settings being stated.