Finding value at running back is crucial for fantasy success, and 2025 offers several compelling sleeper candidates who could dramatically outperform their current draft positions. Whether you're looking for a rookie with immediate upside, a veteran primed for a bounce-back season, or a talented player finally getting his shot, these three running backs represent excellent opportunities to gain a competitive edge in your fantasy leagues.
Kaleb Johnson - Pittsburgh Steelers
The rookie third-round pick is walking into an ideal situation in Pittsburgh. Johnson dominated his senior season at Iowa, breaking the school's single-season touchdown record with 21 rushing scores while averaging 6.4 yards per carry. His patient running style and ability to read blocks perfectly fit Arthur Smith's zone-blocking scheme, making him an immediate candidate to replace Najee Harris as the Steelers' primary early-down back.
While Johnson will split early-down work with Jaylen Warren in roughly a 50-50 split, his goal-line prowess makes him a prime touchdown vulture. His 21 college touchdowns demonstrate his nose for the end zone, and Pittsburgh's improved offensive line should create plenty of scoring opportunities. At his current ADP, Johnson offers tremendous upside as a potential top-24 running back with weekly flex appeal.
Kenneth Walker III - Seattle Seahawks
Don't let the injury concerns fool you – Walker remains a talented back entering his fourth season with a coaching staff that knows how to maximize running back production. New offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak brings a proven track record of developing fantasy-relevant backs, having worked with stars like Arian Foster, Dalvin Cook, and Alvin Kamara. Seattle's commitment to establishing a ground game under this new regime should benefit Walker significantly.
Currently going around pick 44 as the RB16, Walker represents excellent value for a player with top-10 upside when healthy. His 2024 struggles were partly due to a subpar offensive line and inconsistent game scripts, both of which should improve under Kubiak's system. While Zach Charbonnet will continue to play a role, Walker's starting status and big-play ability make him a strong bounce-back candidate for 2025.
TreVeyon Henderson - Indianapolis Colts
The Ohio State product finally gets his chance to shine after being underutilized in a crowded Buckeyes backfield. Henderson's elite 4.43 speed ranks among the fastest backs in recent draft classes, giving him true home-run ability that NFL offenses crave. His freshman All-American season showed his ceiling with 1,560 scrimmage yards and 19 touchdowns, production that was limited by Ohio State's committee approach in subsequent years.
Henderson's receiving ability sets him apart from other rookie backs, as scouts consider him the second-best pass-catching back in this draft class. His combination of speed, vision, and pass-protection skills makes him an ideal fit for Indianapolis, where he could quickly earn a three-down role. With comparisons ranging from D'Andre Swift to Breece Hall, Henderson offers tremendous upside for managers willing to bet on talent over situation.
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