Running Back Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Pickups for Week 2: Top Free Agent Adds Include Jordan Mason, J.K. Dobbins, Jaleel McLaughlin, Bucky Irving

After months of drafting and reshaping your rosters, the season openers are now complete. Many of you have already begun formulating plans on how to proceed with your rosters in Week 2. Some of you should be ecstatic with the production that your backs delivered in Week 1, particularly if you had Saquon Barkley, Joe Mixon, or Rhamondre Stevenson in your lineups.

However, some of you might not be satisfied with all of the backs that are currently contained on your teams. This could be the result of developments that emerged in Week 1, including substandard performances, or workloads that failed to match expectations. If you are incentivized to explore the Week 2 waiver wire, this article will locate the most enticing options that are available at a position that remains both critical and volatile on a weekly basis.

These backs currently remain available in at least 40% of all Yahoo leagues and will be listed in three tiers. After you have finished this article you can also find these fantasy football waiver wire pickups and recommendations. Good luck in your Week 2 matchups.

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Tier 1: Front-Runners - Week 2 Waiver Wire Running Backs

Prioritize These Running Backs On Waiver Wires

J.K. Dobbins, Los Angeles Chargers - 48% Rostered

J.K. Dobbins signed a one-year contract with the Chargers during the offseason, which coincided with the transformational arrival of Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman.

Dobbins’ relocation to Los Angeles reunited him with Roman, who operated in the same capacity with Baltimore from 2019 to 2022. It also presented Dobbins with an opportunity to join an offense that will operate with an increased commitment to the run, after ranking 27th in run play percentage (39%), and 24th in attempts per game (25.4) during 2023.

jk dobbins the man that u are

📺 | @nfloncbs pic.twitter.com/YZGjq4cXYm

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 8, 2024

Dobbins registered his first touches since September 10, 2023, and capitalized on his opportunity to resuscitate his relevance. Dobbins finished second overall in rushing yards while erupting for 135 and a touchdown with his 10 attempts in Week 1.

Dobbins also led all backs in rush yards over expected (98) according to NextGenStats, while pacing Denver's reconstructed backfield in snap share (59%), routes run (13), and targets (three).

Gus Edwards attained a 41% snap share, and carried 11 times, but only manufactured 26 yards (2.4 per attempt). The Chargers also ran the ball 27 times while generating 176 yards in Week 1.

Dobbins should maintain his role in a rotation with Edwards, while touches should also be allocated to rookie Kimani Vidal as the season advances. However, Dobbins’ performance has vaulted him among this week’s top priorities from the waiver wire.

Jordan Mason, San Francisco 49ers -56% Rostered

Christian McCaffrey was inactive during San Francisco's season opener which prevented him from operating as the 49ers' lead back.

The four-time Pro-Bowler had been contending with multiple health issues (calf/Achilles) and his absence propelled Jordan Mason into an expanded workload in Week 1.

Mason was already a highly recommended waiver wire target prior to the announcement that McCaffrey would be inactive. Mason officially became the direct backup to McCaffrey when Elijah Mitchell was placed on season-ending injured reserve (hamstring) in late August. However, Mason appeared destined to bypass Mitchell on the 49ers' depth chart even before Mitchell's status changed.

JORDAN MASON STEPPED UP TONIGHT 😤 pic.twitter.com/uXf5XNSVLh

— PFF Fantasy & Betting (@PFF_Fantasy) September 10, 2024

Mason played on 58 snaps and demonstrated his ability to flourish as San Francisco's workhorse back. He generated a career-high 147 yards with his 28 carries, while averaging 5.3 per attempt,

Mason will retain a pivotal role within Kyle Shanahan’s high-octane offense while McCaffrey is unavailable, and is capable of delivering RB1 production whenever he is functioning as the 49ers' RB1. He is also a valuable asset who should be added in leagues where he remains attainable, as his availability will evaporate this week.

Jaleel McLaughlin, Denver Broncos - 38% Rostered

Jaleel McLaughlin was included among last week’s Tier 1 recommendations. However, he remains available in 62% of all leagues which has sustained his place among the most enticing backs to secure for your rosters.

The explosive second-year back has bypassed significant competition for touches in Denver’s backfield to emerge with a favorable role in Sean Payton’s offense.

Only RBs with 82.0+ receiving grade and 82.0+ rushing grade in 2023 (min. 150 snaps):

Christian McCaffrey
Jaleel McLaughlin

2024 Fantasy outlook:https://t.co/euXpc8a36M

— PFF DEN Broncos (@PFF_Broncos) August 7, 2024

McLaughlin played on 24 snaps (34.8% share) during the Broncos’ season opener, while leading the backfield in carries (10), and rushing yards (27).  He also ran 15 routes and paced Denver’s backs in targets (five), and receptions (five).  Javonte Williams accumulated 36 snaps (52.2% share) and ran 21 routes, although he trailed McLaughlin in attempts (eight), rushing yards (23), and targets (two).

Williams was expected to function as Denver’s lead back, but McLaughlin has also earned a significant workload in the Broncos’ attack. His ability to erupt for sizable gains should sustain his involvement while reducing the potential that he will encounter competition for his role.  That has provided your rationale for prioritizing McLaughlin in all leagues where he remains available.

Bucky Irving, Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 21% Rostered

Bucky Irving's entrance into the NFL did not elicit the level of anticipation that was attained by several members of his rookie class. However, the rationale for adding Irving has been surging, due to his elusiveness, decisiveness, and the efficiency that he can deliver to Tampa Bay’s running game.

Irving’s attributes blend favorably with the strategic approach of offensive coordinator Liam Coen, and his efforts to improve a rushing attack that ranked 32nd during 2023 (88.8 yards per game). Rachaad White also averaged 3.6 yards per attempt last season, while finishing 37th in rush yards over expected (-110) according to Next Gen Stats.

White led Tampa Bay’s backfield in snaps (42/68.9% share), attempts (15), and rushing yards (31) in Week 1, but only averaged 2.1 yards per attempt. White also ran 22 routes, collected all six of his targets, and accrued 75 yards as a receiver.

It's early, it's only Week 1 ... but #Bucs rookie Bucky Irving is stating his case to be RB1.

Irving: 8 carries 66 yards
White: 13 carries 22 yards

— PewterReport 🏴‍☠️ (@PewterReport) September 8, 2024

Irving accumulated 20 snaps (32.8% share) during his NFL debut. He also carried nine times, assembled 62 rushing yards, and averaged 6.9 yards per attempt. He also ran eight routes, captured two of his three targets, and produced 14 yards as a pass-catcher.

Irving was already a valuable insurance policy for managers who were relying on White. The potential for Irving’s workload to steadily rise during the season has vaulted him among the top tier of backs who should be added this week.

Tank Bigsby, Jacksonville Jaguars - 5% Rostered 

It is understandable if you were skeptical that Tank Bigsby could earn an ongoing role in Jacksonville’s backfield rotation, following his disappointing 2023 season.  Bigsby was seemingly positioned to function as the direct backup to Travis Etienne prior to his rookie season after he finished third overall in rushing yards (159/53 per game) during the 2023 preseason.

That did not transpire as Bigsby finished third behind Etienne and D'Ernest Johnson in snap share (12.1%) while averaging just 2.9 attempts, 7.8 rushing yards, and 0.2 targets per game. However, Bigsby’s usage and output in Week 1 indicated that he has seized a larger role this season.

Tank Bigsby looking much improved in Year 2 with 11 rushes for 73 yards. I’ve always been a big Etienne fan, but his ceiling of effectiveness is probably 250 touches. There could be room for Bigsby.

— Kyle Lindemann (@LuckIsMadeFF) September 8, 2024

Bigsby accumulated 17 snaps (34% share), tied Etienne for the team lead in carries (12), and led Jacksonville with 73 rushing yards (6,1 per attempt). He also finished fourth among all backs in rush yards over expected per attempt (1.57) according to NextGenStats,

A one-game sample size makes it premature to suggest that Bigsby has secured standalone value. However, his Week 1 numbers have elevated him among the most enticing handcuffs on this week’s waiver wire.

Tier 2: In The Running - Week 2 Waiver Wire Running Backs

These Running Backs Could Become Assets For Your Rosters

Jaylen Wright, Miami Dolphins - 22% Rostered

Jaylen Wright was relegated to healthy inactive status during Miami’s season opener. However, his road to relevance as a rookie remains accessible.

DO NOT drop Jaylen Wright. De’Von Achane was a healthy scratch in Week 1 last year also. The season is 17 weeks. You drafted him for a reason. I promise you will regret it.

— Frank J. Dyevoich⚖️🏈 (@Fantasy_Giant) September 8, 2024

Wright’s prospects of accumulating touches remain largely contingent upon the ability of De'Von Achane and Raheem Mostert to elude injuries. Both veterans are now dealing with health issues that could impact their availability for the Dolphins’ Week 2 matchup with Buffalo.

The timeline for Wright’s emergence as a point producer can also be accelerated if his big play capabilities compel Mike McDaniel to disperse touches to Wright every week. He averaged 7.4 yards per attempt during 2023, which was second among all Power Five backs according to PFF. Wright also provided a reminder of his blazing speed during the NFL Combine when he finished second among all backs in the 40-yard dash (4.38).

Wright remains capable of delivering a statistical eruption in any given matchup. He will become a critical roster asset if Achane or Mostert is affixed to the sideline on Thursday. Wright's stock will also skyrocket if either veteran is inactive during any of Miami's upcoming contests.

Jeff Wilson Jr., Miami Dolphins - 14% Rostered

The collective health of De'Von Achane and Raheem Mostert has been a topic in this column since any change in the availability of either back would impact the status of Jaylen Wright.

Now, the potential for both Achane (ankle) and Mostert (chest) to miss Miami’s Week 2 matchup with AFC East rival Buffalo has also vaulted Jeff Wilson Jr. into the equation, as the seven-year veteran is also positioned to garner touches during the contest.

Wilson has averaged 6.8 attempts and 31.9 rushing yards per game since he was traded from San Francisco to the Dolphins in November of 2022. He also paced the Dolphins in rushing yards during their season opener (26/5.2 per attempt).

Mostert has already been ruled out of the contest, and Achane’s status should be monitored. Wright’s home-run capabilities should be utilized against Buffalo. However, Wilson should also accumulate carries on early downs, and earn opportunities in the red zone if Miami’s top two backs are relegated to spectator status against the Bills. Wilson is available in 86% of all leagues and should be seized as you await updates on Achane’s availability.

Justice Hill, Baltimore Ravens - 4% Rostered

The two-year contract that Derrick Henry signed with Baltimore in March fueled his exodus from Tennessee to the Ravens while positioning him to operate as the team’s lead back. Baltimore's season opener provided the first opportunity to witness how extensively the four-time Pro-Bowler will be utilized in Todd Monken’s offense, along with an initial glimpse into the distribution of touches to Justice Hill.

The game script was impactful in the Ravens' deployment of both backs as Henry accumulated 37 snaps (48.7% share), while unsurprisingly pacing Baltimore's backfield in carries (13), and rushing yards (46). Henry also ran 13 routes but failed to secure a reception.

Justice Hill scored 11.5 PPR points last night

His average depth of target was -1.0 yards

Baller

— Scott Rinear (@MunderDifflinFF) September 6, 2024

Hill’s role as the backfield’s primary receiving weapon was expanded in Week 1, as he accumulated 38 snaps (51.4% share) ran 28 routes, garnered six of his eight targets, and generated 52 receiving yards.

The Ravens should operate with the lead in the majority of upcoming matchups which will increase their reliance on Henry. However, the convergence of Hill’s pass-catching prowess and his unchallenged status as the direct backup to Henry has solidified his viability as a flex option.

Ray Davis, Buffalo Bills -19% Rostered

Buffalo’s selection of Ray Davis in Round 4 of April’s NFL Draft has positioned the talented first-year back to operate with a workload that matches or expands upon the role that Latavius Murray secured during 2023.

Murray had averaged 4.9 carries and 18.8 rushing yards per game while functioning as the Bills’ RB2 behind James Cook. He also carried 20 times inside the red zone, while accumulating 12 opportunities inside the 5-yard line -- which was second on the Bills behind Josh Allen.

Davis was limited to six snaps (10.3% share), three attempts, and 13 rushing yards in Week 1. However, he remains a decisive runner who can operate inside. This should fuel an increase in his workload as the regular season advances. Davis is also a capable pass-catcher and blocker which enhances his prospects of remaining on the field when the Bills are in passing situations.

Davis will not usurp Cook’s lead-back duties but could secure a role that evolves into standalone value. Davis will also confiscate a sizable workload if Cook is unavailable at any point during the season.

Ty Chandler, Minnesota Vikings - 32% Rostered

Ty Chandler is operating with a navigable path toward emerging as a starting option for fantasy managers, even though he remains stationed below Aaron Jones on Minnesota’s reconstructed depth chart.

Chandler will immediately launch into an expanded workload if Jones is sidelined for any reason during the season. The third-year back could also secure standalone value and is fully capable of capitalizing on any additional opportunities that might develop.

Jones made his debut as the Vikings’ lead back in Week 1 while playing on 27 snaps (52.9% share). He also paced the Minnesota backfield in attempts (14), and rushing yards (94), and was second among all backs with 10+ carries with an average of 6.7 yards per attempt.

However, Chandler’s involvement exceeded expectations as he accumulated 19 snaps (37.3%), carried eight times, and assembled 17 rushing yards. Chandler also ran just three fewer routes than Jones (12/9), while leading the backfield in targets (three/two), receptions (three/two), and receiving yards (25/15). 

Chandler’s usage in Week 1 was encouraging. He is also a viable handcuff who will reward fantasy managers if he operates in an extensive role.

MarShawn Lloyd, Green Bay Packers - 13% Rostered 

Multiple injuries (hip/hamstring) conspired to prevent MarShawn Lloyd from participating in portions of training camp and the Packers’ final two preseason matchups. Lloyd was also inactive during Green Bay’s season opener due to his hamstring issue. However, Lloyd remains positioned to operate as the direct backup to Josh Jacobs after the rookie has resurfaced.

Jacobs unsurprisingly paced the Packers’ backfield in multiple categories during Week 1, including snaps (42/72.4% share), carries (16), rushing yards (84), routes run (22), and targets (three). However, 32 of his rushing yards were generated on one play, while he averaged 3.5 yards per attempt with his remaining 15 carries.

Green Bay’s depth chart has been impacted by A.J. Dillon’s placement on season-ending injured reserve, while Emanuel Wilson has been contending with a hip issue. That did not prevent Wilson from establishing career highs in snaps (16), rushing yards (46), routes run (10), and targets (three) in Week 1.

#Packers rookie RB MarShawn Lloyd strapped in pads for first time since injuring his hamstring in preseason opener at Cleveland. pic.twitter.com/EgzM995v7h

— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) September 1, 2024

Lloyd will eventually function as Green Bay’s RB2 after his return, even though touches could also be allocated to Wilson. Lloyd’s workload should also increase as the regular season progresses. He would also become a critical roster asset if Jacobs becomes unavailable.

Tier 3: Dark Horses - Week 2 Waiver Wire Running Backs

These Running Backs Could Emerge In Your Lineups

Samaje Perine, Kansas City Chiefs - 7% Rostered

The extraction of Samaje Perine, from Denver’s roster on August 27 reduced the congestion that had existed in the Broncos’ backfield. It also created a path for Perine to become the Chiefs' pass-catching back when Kansas City quickly signed the eight-year veteran.

First look at Samaje Perine in a #Chiefs uniform during Sunday's media look @KSHB41 pic.twitter.com/Bl1qbl0Iku

— Aaron Ladd (@aaronladdtv) September 1, 2024

This has positioned Perine to replicate the role that had previously been entrusted to Jerick McKinnon from 2021-2023, once Perine has been integrated into the Chiefs’ offense. He was limited to eight snaps (16% share) and eight routes during Kansas City’s season opener while collecting one of his two targets.

Isiah Pacheco operated with an 80% snap share while pacing the Chiefs’ backfield in attempts (15), rushing yards (45), and routes run (19). However, it is wise to avoid an overreaction to Perine’s modest involvement during a matchup that occurred less than 10 days after he joined his new team.

Perine touches will rise during the upcoming weeks, as he gradually secures a favorable workload in Andy Reid’s potent attack. Perine can operate as an RB3/flex when that occurs, which delivers your incentive for adding him this week.

Alexander Mattison, Las Vegas Raiders - 4% Rostered

The extraction of Josh Jacobs from the Las Vegas depth chart seemingly supplied Zamir White with an uncongested path toward operating as the Raiders’ workhorse back.

However, the distribution of touches to White and Alexander Mattison during the team’s season opener unveiled a higher level of involvement by Mattison than had been anticipated.

#Raiders Week 1 RB Usage

- Alexander Mattison: 59% snaps, 5 carries, 22 routes, 6 targets (62 yds, TD)
- Zamir White: 39% snaps, 13 carries, 9 routes, 2 targets (46 yds)

Welcome to waiver wire articles, Alexander Mattison

— Michael F. Florio (@MichaelFFlorio) September 8, 2024

White did lead the Las Vegas backfield in attempts (13), and rushing yards (44), but only operated with a 38.9% snap share. Mattison paced the backfield in snap share (59.3%), routes run (22), targets (six), and receiving yards (43). Mattison also generated a 31-yard touchdown as a receiving weapon.

While game scripts can be impactful in the utilization of White and Mattison during the Raiders' upcoming matchups, Mattison’s Week 1 role as the preferred pass-catching back is significant. It is difficult to envision Luke Getsy's revamped offense stockpiling yardage and points based on the unit's deficient performance during the season opener.

That will increase the likelihood of opportunities being allocated to Mattison as a receiver. He is currently attainable in 96% of all leagues and could emerge as a flex option if his Week 1 involvement is sustained.

Braelon Allen, New York Jets - 10% Rostered

Braelon Allen's selection by the Jets placed him into an environment that already contained an elite back. However, even though Allen is not a candidate to impact Breece Hall’s role as New York’s workhorse back, the rookie has cemented his place above Isaiah Davis, Israel Abanikanda, and Xavian Valladay on the Jets’ depth chart.

The 6-foot-2, 240-pound Allen began his collegiate career at Wisconsin by securing the seventh-highest stuff rate among backs as a 17-year-old freshman (13.0%) according to PFF. He also finished among the top eight in yards per attempt (5.8) and yards after contact per attempt (4.0) from Weeks 1-8 last season, before he sustained a high ankle sprain.

This RUN by Braelon Allen 😳

This is a 20-YEAR-OLD running over GROWN men. pic.twitter.com/fyDetg5lfP

— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) August 23, 2024

Allen played on eight snaps during the Jets' season opener and generated eight yards with his only rushing attempt. However, he will garner more opportunities during upcoming matchups while remaining unchallenged in his role as New York’s RB2.

That should encourage anyone who has invested in Hall to seize Allen as a handcuff, who will help you navigate any absence by Hall during the regular season. Allen would become a critical roster asset if that scenario transpires, which presents the rationale for all other managers to add Allen this week.

Kenneth Gainwell, Philadelphia Eagles - 3% Rostered

Saquon Barkley’s role as Philadelphia’s primary back was cemented after he signed a three-year, $37.75 million contract with the Eagles. It is also clear that Kenneth Gainwell is Barkley’s direct backup based on the allocation of touches within Philadelphia's backfield in Week 1.

Barkley secured an 81.1% snap share during the Eagles’ season opener, while also pacing the backfield in attempts (24), rushing yards (109), routes run (26), and receiving yards (23).

It's hard to tell from TV, but Saquon Barkley looked like he was shaken up on his last run -- 2 yards up the middle into a wall of Packers.

He got up and quickly called for Kenneth Gainwell to replace him.

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) September 7, 2024

Gainwell was deployed in the backfield whenever Barkley exited the field, which propelled him to a higher snap count than rookie Will Shipley (15/4). Gainwell also ran 10 routes, even though he only registered two touches. Shipley’s involvement was minimal during his NFL debut, as he failed to register a touch.

Barkley should consistently attain a sizable workload while operating as Philadelphia’s lead back, and Gainwell does not currently deliver standalone value. However, Gainwell would confiscate the majority of touches if Barkley is forced to the sideline. That makes Gainwell the back who should be rostered as a handcuff by anyone who selected Barkley as their RB1.

Keaton Mitchell, Baltimore Ravens - 15% Rostered

The incentive for retaining Justice Hill on your rosters could dissipate once the explosive Keaton Mitchell reemerges from his recovery. Mitchell is currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list in the aftermath of his torn ACL. Mitchell was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023 but was relegated to two offensive snaps, and one touch from Weeks 1-8.

Keaton Mitchell today:

9 carries
138 yards
1 TD

60 yard run. The NFL ain’t sleeping on him anymore pic.twitter.com/4L94RQTwUH

— Barstool ECU (@barstoolecu) November 5, 2023

However, Mitchell erupted onto the fantasy landscape by generating a league-high 138 rushing yards on nine carries (15.3 yards per attempt) in Week 9. Mitchell also averaged 8.4 yards per attempt from Weeks 9-15 before he sustained his significant injury.

He also accumulated more attempts (47/26), rushing yards (396/102), and targets per route run than Hill from Weeks 9-15 (18.9%/7.8%), before Mitchell was forced to the sideline.

The timeline for Mitchell’s return remains unclear. That should not discourage you from securing him from this week’s waiver wire and stashing him on injured reserve. Mitchell could reward you for that decision after he has resurfaced.

Other Fantasy Football Running Backs To Consider

• Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons - 34% Rostered 
• Tyrone Tracy Jr. New York Giants - 8% Rostered 
• Zach Charbonnet, Seattle Seahawks - 47% Rostered 

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