The end of the fantasy football season is a time to reflect on the previous season. Here is a dynasty pulse check for some 2021 running backs who caught my eye.
In this article, I may reference what I believe these three running backs would cost to acquire, but by no means is this a buy low, sell high, start a Twitter poll type of article. My “Dynasty Pulse Check” series will highlight players at each position who have piqued my interest. I try to stay away from the buy, sell, hold rhetoric because the value is in the eye of the beholder.
In the last article, I referenced three wide receivers that have caught my attention. Please feel free to leave me feedback on my Twitter via tweet or direct message. I would love to hear what you have to think. Now, on to the running backs.
Michael Carter, New York Jets
I know, I know, I have a New York Jet as someone that has caught my attention. Hopefully, it does not excommunicate me from the fantasy community. Carter had one of those seasons that made it difficult to judge. The Jets used a handful of running backs throughout the season and he missed some time due to injury.
The rookie running back finished the season with 639 yards and four touchdowns. His best showing came in Week 16 where he finished with 118 yards rushing. One thing that stands out about Carter was his involvement in the passing game. In two of the three games, his snap percentage was greater than seventy percent he was targeted nine and fourteen times. In those games, he finished with 67 and 95 yards receiving.
Dynasty Outlook
Obviously, Michael Carter was a rookie last season and held his own when given the opportunity. I firmly believe the Jets have found their starting running back. The Jets should not feel the need to draft a running back in the first five rounds this season. He should be a guy you look to roster next season.
Dynasty Trade Idea: Early second-round draft pick.
Rhamondre Stevenson, New England Patriots
Another rookie that caught my attention, along with many in the league was Rhamondre Stevenson. He took advantage of his opportunities when they were presented. He finished his season with 606 yards rushing. The rookie running back managed to have two games with over 100 yards rushing. In six of Stephenson’s games, he averaged five yards a carry or more, an impressive number.
Dynasty Outlook
Much of Stevenson’s outlook hinges on if Damien Harris is signed to an extension. Harris has one year left on his contract with the New England Patriots. If the Patriots after this coming season decide to let Harris walk, Stevenson is a must-add in dynasty leagues. He showed in glimpses he is well capable of being a lead back.
Dynasty Trade Idea: Early second-round draft pick
Kene Nwangwu, Minnesota Vikings
The next running back is a bit of a long shot and reach, but I am looking further into the future on this one. As a Minnesota Vikings fan, I was intrigued when they drafted Kene Nwangwu. His season did not start until week eight due to injury, but he made his presence felt immediately. In week nine he returned a kick for a touchdown.
KENE NWANGWU GOES 98 YARDS.
Kickoff RETURNED. #SKOL @KWang3_
📺: #MINvsBAL on FOX
📱: NFL app pic.twitter.com/eegXYoWL5a— NFL (@NFL) November 7, 2021
Dynasty Outlook
Nwangwu’s outlook comes at a distance. He has already flashed the speed that makes him intriguing. Vikings running back Alexander Mattison has one season left on his contract. It would not be a surprise at all if the Vikings let Mattison go in free agency and Nwangwu inherited the backup running back role.
I say this with little truth that it will happen, but there is always an outside chance Dalvin Cook could be put on the trade block if the Vikings were looking to make salary cap space. It would be more likely Cook is let go next offseason when his dead cap hit drops from nine million to six million. Keep Kene Nwangwu on your radar.
Dynasty Trade Idea: Late third-round draft pick.
Honorable Mentions
Two more running backs to monitor:
Devin Singletary, Buffalo Bills, 870 yards, and seven touchdowns.
Khalil Herbert, Chicago Bears, 433 yards, and two touchdowns.
Thank you for reading! You can find me on Twitter at @ClintonHolmgren and @IDPGuys. Check out all of my Offensive and DFS work at idpguys.org. You can also see me on the IDPGuys Youtube Channel with various content.
