Fantasy managers face critical running back decisions for Week 9 as trade speculation surrounds Jonathan Taylor and several backfields remain unsettled. Taylor could deliver a strong performance against the Dallas Cowboys, who rank sixth in fantasy points allowed to opposing running backs, though his status is clouded by the November 5 trade deadline. The Indianapolis Colts running back scored a season-low 6.7 PPR points in Week 8 but had topped 19 PPR points in three of his previous four games.
Start 'Em
Rhamondre Stevenson (NE) projects for 12.2 points against a Green Bay defense allowing the seventh-most fantasy points to running backs, with a back scoring at least 13 PPR points in each of the Packers' last four games. Ashton Jeanty (LV) remains a viable No. 2 option despite a reduced role, as the San Francisco 49ers lead the league in receptions allowed to running backs. Quinshon Judkins (CLE) faces a New Orleans Saints defense that ranks first in fantasy points allowed to the position, with 10 running backs scoring at least 11.4 PPR points against them. Woody Marks (HOU) should see continued volume if David Montgomery remains out, with the Los Angeles Chargers allowing at least 10.3 PPR points to a running back in every game. Ollie Gordon II (MIA) could rebound against a Detroit Lions defense missing multiple linebackers and safety Brian Branch.
Sleepers
Rachaad White (WAS) has scored at least 11.1 PPR points in four of his last five games and benefits from Washington's backfield injuries. Blake Corum (LAR) has scored at least 13.3 PPR points in four straight games with a touchdown in each, and the Commanders lost defensive tackles Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw to season-ending injuries. Zach Charbonnet (SEA) made his season debut in Week 8 and has averaged 21.7 PPR points in his last three games against Arizona, making him a flex consideration alongside Jadarian Price.
Sits
Tyler Allgeier (ARI) posted 36.1 PPR points against Dallas but faces a tougher Seattle matchup with Zonovan Knight potentially returning. Mike Washington Jr. (LV) led the Raiders' backfield in snaps and carries in Week 8 but draws a San Francisco defense that has allowed only two rushing touchdowns and added DeForest Buckner. Omarion Hampton (LAC) has scored 7.9 PPR points or less in four of his last five games while sharing touches, and the Houston Texans have allowed only two running backs to exceed 68 rushing yards. Alvin Kamara (NO) should be only a PPR flex if Travis Etienne returns, as Cleveland ranks among league leaders in fewest receptions allowed to running backs.
Bust Alert
Breece Hall (NYJ) returns from a five-game absence but faces a Kansas City Chiefs defense ranking 12th in fewest fantasy points allowed to running backs. Braelon Allen has scored at least 12.4 PPR points in four straight games and could command significant work, limiting both Jets backs to flex status at best.
