3 Running Backs to Draft (2025 Fantasy Football)

Below are running backs inside the RB dead zone that fantasy players want to draft this fantasy football season.

Fantasy Football Advice: Running Backs to Draft

Chase Brown (CIN)

Despite doing their homework on the rookie running back class, Cincinnati waited until the sixth round to draft Tahj Brooks. Therefore, Brown will have a featured role again in 2025. Last year, he was the RB6 from Week 4 through Week 17, averaging 20.3 touches and 18.3 PPR fantasy points per game. Furthermore, Brown is a factor in the passing game, posting the same route participation rate (46.6%) as Jahmyr Gibbs and a higher target per route run rate (20% vs. 15%) than Saquon Barkley (per Fantasy Points Data).

Kenneth Walker III (SEA)

Unfortunately, Walker missed a career-high six games last season because of injury. Yet, he had an outstanding year when healthy. The former Michigan star was the RB12 on a points-per-game basis, averaging 16.5 PPR fantasy points per outing. Furthermore, Walker posted a career-high 4.6% rushing touchdown rate, totaling seven scores in 11 games. More importantly, he set career highs in receptions (46) and targets (54) despite missing significant time with injuries. Don’t be surprised if Walker is even more involved in the passing game under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.

Kaleb Johnson (PIT)

Last year, Iowa had no meaningful passing offense. Yet, Johnson led the Big 10 in rushing yards (1,537) and touchdowns (21) while averaging 6.4 yards per attempt. While he will lose passing game work to Jaylen Warren, expect the rookie to take on the Najee Harris role in Arthur Smith’s offense. Last season, Harris was the RB20, averaging 12 PPR fantasy points per game despite averaging four yards per rushing attempt. Johnson is a more explosive runner than the veteran. Don’t bet against big running backs in Smith’s offense.