Injuries happen, and power shifts can happen in a hurry. Faraz lists a few RBs with the potential to step into RB1 roles if the talent ahead of them isn’t available:
Tyjae Spears, Tennessee Titans
Spears could step into a 3-down role for Tennessee if Henry gets banged up. He’s very capable in the receiving game, and plays bigger than his size in the run game.
Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh Steelers
Warren already proved to be efficient as an undrafted rookie RB last year, especially in the receiving game. If Najee gets hurt, Warren likely has a better role than Najee did, taking over on all three downs.
Zach Charbonnet, Seattle Seahawks
If Kenneth Walker has to miss time, Charbonnet should be able to step up in a run-first offense while not having to share early down carries. Charbonnet’s receiving chops would put him in RB1 territory.
D’Andre Swift, Philadelphia Eagles
Rashaad Penny isn’t the epitome of health, and neither is Swift, but if Penny gets banged up, Swift would assume even more work in the run game, and will likely be the Eagles goal line RB.
Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints
If Alvin Kamara misses games due to injury or suspension, Miller has RB1 written all over him. He might already be the superior rusher in this backfield, and he’s definitely the preferred pass catcher over Jamaal Williams.
Samaje Perine, Denver Broncos
Perine will likely have a solid role on all three downs with Javonte Williams limited this season, but if Williams has to miss time, Perine’s role would be upgraded to an every-down RB1.
Antonio Gibson, Washington Commanders
It seems like Gibson is being favored in Eric Bienemy’s offense, but if Brian Robinson gets banged up, added goal line carries and early down work can be in Gibson’s cards.receiving game.