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The 2024 NFL Draft class lacked an elite talent like Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs. Yet, there were several appealing mid-round running backs.
Ray Davis and Bucky Irving are two of the more attractive options for fantasy players this year. Both rookies could secure the No. 2 running back role behind third-year players James Cook and Rachaad White.
However, which mid-round rookie running back is the better fantasy football draft pick in 2024? Let’s see how the two players match up.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Ray Davis 2024 Fantasy Football Outlook
Many in the fantasy football industry have high hopes for Davis. The former Kentucky star had an outstanding 2023 season, totaling 199 rushing attempts for 1,129 yards and 14 touchdowns in 12 games. Furthermore, Davis was a factor in the passing game, with 33 receptions for 323 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last year. While Cook should remain the lead back, the rookie will have a meaningful role in 2024.
Ray Davis can be what they wanted Damien Harris to be last year. It’s not the best for James Cook’s fantasy value - but it gives the Bills some much needed oomph in the backfield
— Michael F. Florio (@MichaelFFlorio) April 27, 2024
Bucky Irving 2024 Fantasy Football Outlook
Irving was a popular pre-draft running back after a solid college career. He had over 2,200 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns in his two seasons at Oregon. Furthermore, the rookie had 95 receptions for 785 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 39 college games, showing off his abilities in the passing game. However, the coaching staff hasn’t handed him the No. 2 running back role, suggesting Irving must earn the role behind White.
#Buccaneers HC Todd Bowles on Bucky Irving’s role:
“We gotta get in pads, there’s still more to determine. And get in pads and see who can do what, as far as Bucky’s concerned. Chase [Edmonds] is involved in that and there’s a bunch of other backs involved in that.” pic.twitter.com/iuOJdyYpNn
— The Coachspeak Index (@CoachspeakIndex) June 13, 2024
Who Should I Draft?
Fantasy players should temper their expectations with both rookie running backs. Neither will unseat the starter as the No. 1 guy in the backfield. Furthermore, both teams have impressive passing attacks, limiting the rookies' upside on the ground.
However, Davis is the better fantasy football draft pick for 2024. The Buffalo Bills have wanted to pair Cook with a bigger running back since they drafted him three years ago. Davis can provide a punch on the ground but is also a solid catcher out of the backfield, giving him three-down upside if Cook misses significant time with an injury.
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