Commitee Meetings backfield categories:
Last season, this 'Committee Meetings' column focused on some of the most headache-inducing committee backfields for fantasy owners to deal with. This season, for the sake of reducing some of those headaches we thought it would be helpful to put all of these committee backfields into categories based on how carries are projected to be split, the various roles each running back plays in their respective situations and the philosophies of different teams when it comes to the all-important run game.
Hopefully you can use this categorization as a guideline to make decisions on whom to start each week, build some bench depth at the running back position, handcuff your starters and uncover some potential waiver-wire targets along the way. As the season evolves, these categories will evolve and be revised depending on how things shape up each week. A look ahead will also be provided to preview upcoming matchups and hone in on some hidden value plays.
Remember that this is not a ranking of fantasy running backs, but more of a reference on how different teams project to utilize their running backs. Be sure to check back for weekly updates that will reflect backfield storylines as they develop over the course of the season.
Three down workhorses
A few teams have trustworthy backs who aren't considered among the fantasy "elite" but possess a skill set that allows them to remain on the field for passing plays and goal line situations increasing their opportunities and value in fantasy. Most of these runners can confidently be used as RB1s/RB2s on your fantasy roster.
Justin Forsett // Ravens
A waiver-wire darling last season, Forsett finished as a top-10 fantasy back and projects to have a similar role this year. Under new offensive coordinator Marc Trestman, the Ravens may use Forsett more in the passing game (he had 44 catches in 2014) which would boost his value in PPR leagues. He should be off the board by the third round at the latest, so you'll have to move fast if you want to own him. It's also worth noting that Forsett will be 30-years-old in October, so picking up Lorenzo Taliaferro or Javorius Allen in later rounds makes for a wise move.
LeSean McCoy // Bills
It's no secret that Rex Ryan likes to run the ball, so McCoy's workload could be massive this year. His drop off in fantasy production last season was mainly due to his lack of touchdowns (he only scored five all year) so his ADP has fallen to late first/early second round. To be quite honest, the Bills offense isn't anything to write home about so McCoy's owners will have to hope that his situation doesn't hinder his production too much. The aging Fred Jackson is also lurking and would likely be McCoy's handcuff, should Shady miss time for any reason.
C.J. Anderson // Broncos
The jury is still out on Anderson, as far as his capabilities as true NFL feature back. We saw him break out late last year but there are concerns about more of a carries split with a healthy Montee Ball returning to the mix in Denver, and new head coach Gary Kubiak calling the shots. Anderson will be an interesting runner to watch this preseason, but when it comes down to the nitty gritty, Anderson still has borderline first round value on draft day.
Frank Gore // Colts
Gore obviously has the ability to play on all three downs, which is a role the Colts have in mind for him. But his age is beginning to become a major concern. Still, he is set up for great success in Indianapolis with Andrew Luck at the helm, somethinig he has expressed his excitement about. If Gore can stay healthy he could be one of the best bargains in fantasy this season. The veteran comes with a Round 5 ADP at this moment, behind guys like Carlos Hyde and Jonathan Stewart. Daniel "Boom" Herron would be the next option on the depth chart if Gore runs out of gas at any point, with rookie Josh Robinson also lurking.
Alfred Morris // Redskins
Coach Jay Gruden has said that Morris will be "getting the bulk of the carries" this season. There is still reason to believe third-round pick Matt Jones will spell him on passing downs, since Morris had just 17 receptions last year. Either way, Washington's offensive line and all-around run game should see an improvement under new o-line coach Bill Callahan. All in all, Morris is a great value with a Round 4 ADP.
Matt Franciscovich is an associate fantasy editor at NFL.com. His nickname around the NFL Media office is Franchise, and he's totally cool with it. If you're looking to kill some more time, be sure to check out his player rankings and follow him on Twitter for fantasy advice all season long _@mfranciscovich_.
