Fantasy Football RBs: Blake Corum, James Cook, Quinshon Judkins

When it comes to fantasy football, few topics spark more debate than the most polarizing players — those whose values vary wildly from one expert to another. These are the quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers and tight ends that divide rankings, dominate draft-day discussions and often determine whether you’re a contender or pretender.

In this article, we asked our collection of Featured Pros to weigh in on players at the running back position with a high standard deviation, meaning analysts are all over the board in how they rank them. Whether it’s a breakout candidate you should be targeting or a risky pick to fade, our experts share who they’re significantly higher or lower on and why. Let’s dive into the most hotly debated names ahead of the 2025 fantasy football season.

Polarizing Fantasy Football Players: Draft or Pass?

Who is one running back with a high standard deviation you are higher or lower on and why?

Blake Corum (RB – LAR)

“I am much lower than the consensus on Blake Corum and am out on him completely this season. Last year, Corum never had more than eight carries in a game, even with Kyren Williams‘ fumbling issues. He finished as the RB50 or better in just four games, and the Rams just drafted an explosive runner in Jarquez Hunter. With a more muddled role than last year when he finished as the RB78, I fail to see how Corum comes anywhere close to his RB48 ranking this year.”
– Trevor Land (FlurrySports)

James Cook (RB – BUF)

“James Cook is another regression candidate after scoring 16 times on the ground in 2024. His expected rushing touchdown total? Only 10.3.”
– Kevin English (Draft Sharks)

Quinshon Judkins (RB – CLE)

“While many fantasy players will want to avoid the Browns’ offense this season, I am higher on Quinshon Judkins (7.3 standard deviation) than his consensus ranking (RB28). Cleveland’s passing attack could be a nightmare because of their quarterback situation, which only helps the rookie’s upside. Head coach Kevin Stefanski wants to have a run-heavy offense, especially with limited options at quarterback. Therefore, expect Judkins to be the team’s new Nick Chubb. The veteran averaged 16.4 half-PPR fantasy points per game over his last three healthy years in Cleveland. Don’t be surprised if Judkins is the second-highest-scoring rookie running back this season.”
– Mike Fanelli (FantasyPros)