Jaylen Warren - 11th round
Warren already took over the passing down role last year, even in Najee’s healthy games. His ranks in yards after contact, missed tackles forced, yards/touch, and yards/route run are all indicators that Warren can be more than one of the best 3-down handcuffs in fantasy. I’d expect a further push into Najee’s workload
Jeff Wilson - 14th round
Wilson was the preferred RB when he and Mostert were on the field together last year, and De’Von Achane replicates a lot of what Mostert can do and more. I’d expect Wilson to be the bigger back complement to Achane, and the goal-line back on a very good offense.
Tyjae Spears - 14th round
Derrick Henry is way past the carry and age threshold, and should already be over the RB cliff - but he’s the king for a reason. Spears profiles as the passing down RB as soon as Week 1, but would step in as a talented 3-down RB if Henry were to go down.
Jerome Ford - 15th round
Ford is the clear #2 RB behind Nick Chubb and could be taking over the Kareem Hunt role. I’m not depending on any standalone value, but if Chubb gets hurt, we could see Ford take over on a good offense behind a great offensive line. Viewing Ford as a high-value handcuff.
Chase Brown - 17th round
Brown can handle a big workload and would be a high-value early down handcuff on a good offense if Mixon were to go down. Given how inefficient Mixon was last year, as well as him approaching the RB drop-off carry threshold, Brown is someone I’d be rostering in case Mixon can’t hold up.