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Unsurprisingly, Week 1 didn't end without having its share of banged-up players, many of which are essential components of fantasy lineups. On the other hand, a handful in of performers emerged and took on a more prominent role than most had foreseen, doing so despite the availability of those above them on the depth chart. This, of course, left fantasy managers scratching their heads. Since then, "must-add" articles have been flooded with names to consider adding and starting heading into Week 2.
While that's good and all, will these guys REALLY deliver just because of their performances in Week 1? Fortunately, some of the RotoBaller's NFL Contributors have assembled to help clarify things.
Throughout this article, we will analyze some of the popular running backs mentioned in publications heading toward Week 2 of the 2022-23 campaign. Be sure to subscribe today to also enjoy our many other premium articles and tools available exclusively to subscribers.
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Khalil Herbert, Bears, Week 2 Fantasy Football Outlook
Chicago Bears running back Khalil Herbert finished with nine touches for 45 yards during the win over the 49ers in a rainy Week 1. He also scored, finding the end zone late in the fourth quarter. Yet, the important takeaway from all of this is that Herbert carried the ball eight fewer times than David Montgomery, the No. 1 option on the depth chart, but was more productive.
As a result, people got talking. To be fair, while Montgomery only had 26 rushing yards, he was much more impactful as a pass-catcher than a backup, securing three of his four targets for 24 yards. However, entering Week 2, fantasy managers are left wondering if Herbert will continue to see this type of production and even claim the top spot out of the backfield.
While the concern is understandable, there is not enough evidence to suggest Herbert will be the main guy in Week 2. Could it happen at some point down the line? Sure. Will Herbert be involved against the Packers? Probably. Although both backs have room in fantasy lineups for Week 2, rolling with either is risky.
--Dennis Clausen
Jamaal Williams, Lions, Week 2 Fantasy Football Outlook
Detroit Lions running back Jamaal Williams scored two touchdowns against the Philadelphia Eagles but wasn't an efficient runner or receiver in the contest.
He could be a touchdown-or-bust guy, meaning his attractiveness as a flex play is dependent on the size of the fantasy league. However, if D'Andre Swift (ankle) is inactive against the Washington Commanders, he is a must-start option as the workhorse back for Detroit.
The Lions' offense looks to have enough firepower to score fantasy points, so the featured back in the offense should always be considered. If Swift does play, Williams is a boom-or-bust option.
--Jackson Sparks
Jeff Wilson Jr. 49ers, Week 2 Fantasy Football Outlook
San Francisco 49ers running back Jeff Wilson Jr. takes on the starting role for the 49ers in their Week 2 home matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. Wilson started four games last year and averaged 44.3 yards per game and 3.9 yards per carry in those games. T
he Seahawks played well on defense in their Week 1 win over the Denver Broncos. They allowed 113.6 rushing yards per game last season, 17th-most in the league, but just 3.8 yards per carry, the second-fewest. PFF ranked their run defense as third-best.
The starting 49ers RB always has the opportunity to pull off a big game, but Wilson has been given the opportunity before and has rarely produced for fantasy managers.
--Mitchell Blatt
Rachaad White, Buccaneers, Week 2 Fantasy Football Outlook
Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie running back Rachaad White rushed six times for 14 yards and brought in both targets for seven yards in his NFL debut against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1.
He could see an uptick in usage if Leonard Fournette (hamstring), questionable with a hamstring injury, cannot suit up for Week 2's matchup against the New Orleans Saints.
The 23-year-old played a complementary role behind Fournette in Week 1, and fantasy managers can expect more of the same this Sunday. Unless Fournette is surprisingly inactive, White is mainly a flex option in deep PPR formats.
--Brad Camara
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