Best Value Running Backs to Target in Your 2025 Fantasy Football Draft

When you miss out on elite-tier running backs like Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs, don’t panic — the middle rounds are filled with high-upside value RBs that can anchor your fantasy roster. Whether you’re a Zero RB, Hero RB, or WR-heavy drafter, these names are essential targets for maximizing value.

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Why Value RBs Matter in PPR Leagues

Most fantasy leagues in 2025 are full or half-PPR, where catching passes out of the backfield significantly boosts an RB’s floor and ceiling. That makes backs who catch 30+ passes extremely valuable — and many in this tier offer that upside without the Round 1 or 2 price tag.

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Tier 1 Value Running Backs (Rounds 3–4 Targets)

1. Chase Brown – Cincinnati Bengals

With little to no backfield competition, Chase Brown has a clear path to volume in a high-powered offense. He’s a potential RB1 in disguise, being drafted in the mid-rounds.

2. Kyren Williams – Los Angeles Rams

Fresh off a touchdown-heavy season, Williams just got paid and remains a reliable red zone threat. Expect continued workhorse usage.

3. James Cook – Buffalo Bills

Everyone’s screaming “regression,” but James Cook’s role hasn’t changed — and neither has Buffalo’s need for him. With no other proven offensive weapons besides Josh Allen, Cook’s PPR value remains elite.

4. Alvin Kamara – New Orleans Saints

The “old reliable” in the value pool. Even on a declining Saints offense, Kamara’s pass-catching and versatility make him safe and stable in rounds 4–5.

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Tier 2 Rotational Upside Backs (Rounds 4–6)

5. Bucky Irving – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

A sleeper with big-play potential in a developing offense. Irving offers flex value with weekly upside, especially in PPR formats.

6. Omarion Hampton – Los Angeles Chargers

Hampton’s path to a larger role becomes clearer every week, especially with uncertainty around the backfield. A great stash who could emerge by midseason.

7. Chuba Hubbard – Carolina Panthers

With Carolina’s offense improving, Hubbard is flying under the radar. He’s a sneaky flex play who could have standalone value even without injury.

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Strategy: Buy Running Backs in Bulk

The smart strategy here is buying quality RBs in bulk. Think of it like shopping at Costco — you’re paying a little upfront (in middle-round draft capital) for high-value depth at the game’s most volatile position.

Many of these RBs (like Kamara, Cook, and Williams) can function as your RB1 or RB2 depending on roster build, while guys like Irving or Hampton offer explosive potential when called upon.

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🏆 Final Thoughts: Build WR-Heavy and Steal These RBs

If you’re stacking elite wide receivers early — say you open your draft with Amon-Ra St. Brown, Malik Nabers, and Puka Nacua — pairing them with a combination of James Cook, Kyren Williams, and Chase Brown sets you up with both upside and stability.

These RBs may not carry Round 1 names, but they can be league-winners at a fraction of the cost.

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