Middle-Round Draft Targets and Avoids for 2024 Fantasy Football

Josh Jacobs is poised to be a standout fantasy football option with the Green Bay Packers this year due to his versatile skill set and the Packers' dynamic offensive scheme. Jacobs had a career year back in 2022, where he ran for over 1,600 yards and totaled 12 touchdowns on the ground. In 2023, Jacobs played just 13 games but still was able to record a solid season as he ran for 805 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Transitioning from the Raiders, Jacobs brings his proven track record of consistent rushing yards, goal-line efficiency, and receiving capabilities to a team known for maximizing running back potential. With rising star quarterback Jordan Love orchestrating the offense and drawing defensive attention, Jacobs will find opportunities to exploit gaps and contribute significantly in both rushing and passing plays.

Considering Jacobs is listed outside the top ten for running backs, he can be considered a middle-round option with tons of upside. The biggest concern for Jacobs, however, is that head coach Matt Lafleur, in the past, has loved to split up the carries between his running back room, but Jacobs should have no problem seeing the most touches in the backfield. His role as the primary back in Green Bay’s high-powered offense makes him a valuable asset for fantasy managers aiming for a reliable and high-ceiling option in their lineups. Jacobs is an early to middle-round player that you should be aiming for in your fantasy drafts.

Josh Jacobs is REALLY a green bay packer and taking handoffs from jordan love in 2024 🥹 pic.twitter.com/4yHvR9DU0z

— RELAX (@thatRELAXdude) June 17, 2024

Chubb is set to be a premier fantasy football option with the Browns in 2024, despite coming off an injury, due to his exceptional rushing ability and the team's commitment to a run-heavy offense. Chubb has always combined his power, vision, and breakaway speed, which has made him a consistent threat to rack up significant yardage and touchdowns when he is on the field. His recovery has been impressive, but there is still no clear timeline on when he will return. With Deshaun Watson at quarterback, defenses will be less able to stack the box against Chubb, opening up more running lanes for explosive plays.

Additionally, the Browns’ strong offensive line and Chubb's reliable performance in goal-line situations further bolster his fantasy value, making him a top-tier running back option for fantasy managers. Don't let Chubb's low ADP scare you away because he could be one of the most slept-on running backs this season.

An update on Nick Chubb: Currently, Chubb can run nearly full speed in a straight line and the next step in his recovery is cutting laterally, a big progression towards returning to the field. Chubb is ahead of schedule on his recovery after he underwent two surgeries in the fall… pic.twitter.com/DiLHImc6h4

— Noah Weiskopf (@BrownsWithNoah) June 28, 2024

 

Fantasy Football Middle-Round Avoids

Calvin Ridley, Tennessee Titans

ADP: WR33

Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers

ADP: RB22

Najee Harris has been as productive as they come since he entered the league in 2021 as the 26-year-old has run for over 1,000 yards in all three seasons he has been in the NFL. This may look good on paper, but Harris may not be a reliable fantasy football option with the Steelers this year due to several key concerns. Despite his favorable middle-round ADP, he should be a player to avoid.

The Steelers' offensive line struggles continue to impede their rushing attack, limiting Harris’s ability to find running lanes and break off big plays consistently. Harris has also been splitting time with running back Jaylen Warren, who honestly has looked better than Harris and is capable of doing more with his exceptional catching abilities. Rumors have also been swirling that Harris may not be in Pittsburgh for much longer, which can give the expectation that Warren may be used more than Harris this season. If Warren continues to shine, this will cut into Harris' workload, reducing his overall volume and fantasy production.

The Steelers' offensive inconsistencies and a potential focus on a more pass-heavy game plan with newly acquired Russell Wilson at quarterback which could further diminish Harris’s upside, making him a risky option for fantasy managers this season. Try to avoid Harris at all costs.

Najee Harris in his first 3 seasons:

🟡 2023 - 1,205 Yards + 8 TDs
🟡 2022 - 1,267 Yards + 10 TDs
🟡 2021 - 1,667 Yards + 10 TDs

He’s been as consistent as they come. pic.twitter.com/ZAnQkwMaLe

— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) April 11, 2024

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