Best Ball Fantasy Football: Zero Running Back Strategy

The “Zero Running Back” (Zero RB) approach is a Best Ball fantasy football draft strategy. It stands out for its unconventional yet potentially high reward. This strategy involves deprioritizing running backs in the early rounds of the draft in favor of wide receivers, tight ends, and quarterbacks, then targeting running backs in the middle to late rounds. Here’s a look at the Zero RB strategy. 

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Understanding the Zero Running Back Strategy 

The Zero RB strategy is predicated on the belief that early-round running backs are more susceptible to injury and inconsistency, while the wide receiver position offers greater depth and stability. By loading up on elite wide receivers, tight ends, and a strong quarterback early, you can then draft multiple high-upside running backs later in the draft who may emerge as valuable assets throughout the season. 

Why the Zero Running Back Strategy Works

Injury Risk and Volatility

Running backs tend to have a higher injury rate and greater week-to-week variance in performance compared to wide receivers. By avoiding early-round running backs, you lessen the risk with these players and build a more stable foundation with wide receivers and tight ends.

Wide Receiver Depth: 

The wide receiver position is always deeper and more predictable than running back. Elite wide receivers can provide consistent weekly production, which is crucial in the Best Ball format, where your optimal lineup is set automatically.

Late-Round Running Back Upside: 

The NFL season is long, and many late-round or undrafted running backs become valuable contributors due to injuries, role changes, or unexpected performances. By drafting multiple running backs in the later rounds, you increase your chances of finding the next breakout star. 

Implementing the Zero Running Back Strategy

Draft Elite Wide Receivers and Tight Ends Early

In the first few rounds, focus on securing top-tier wide receivers and, if possible, an elite tight end. Players like Justin Jefferson,  Ceedee Lamb, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tyrek Hill provide a high floor and ceiling, making them ideal targets for the Zero RB strategy.

Consider an Early Quarterback

While it’s advisable to wait on quarterbacks in traditional drafts, in Best Ball, having a reliable and high-scoring quarterback can be an advantage. Target top-tier quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, or Jalen Hurts if they fall to a value spot in the early to middle rounds.

Load Up on High Upside Wide Receivers

Continue to draft wide receivers through the middle rounds. Look for players with high target shares and those in pass-heavy offenses. Depth at the wide receiver position ensures you have multiple options to fill your starting lineup each week.

Target Running Backs in the Middle to Late Rounds

Start drafting running backs from rounds 6-7 onwards. Look for players in ambiguous backfield situations, handcuffs to injury-prone starters, or rookies with potential. These running backs may start the season in a committee but can emerge as valuable assets as the season progresses.

Emphasize Quantity Over Quality at Running Back

Given the position’s volatility, drafting a larger number of running backs increases your chances of hitting on a breakout player. Aim for at least six to seven running backs, focusing on those with potential for increased roles or injury-related opportunities.

Monitor Bye Weeks and Build Depth

Ensure that your roster construction takes into account bye weeks, particularly for your key wide receivers and tight ends. In Best Ball, having a well-rounded roster with depth at each position is crucial to avoid zero-point weeks.

Leverage Stacking

If possible, consider stacking your quarterback with one or more of your wide receivers. If the team performs well, this strategy can create high-scoring weeks. Drafting players from high-powered offenses can also increase the chances of spike weeks. 

Conclusion 

The Zero Running Back strategy offers a unique and potentially high-reward approach to Best Ball drafts. By prioritizing elite wide receivers, tight ends, and quarterbacks early and then targeting high-upside running backs in the middle to late rounds, you can build a balanced roster. The key to success with Zero RB is to embrace the volatility of the running back position and leverage the depth and consistency of wide receivers. Zero Running Back strategy can position you for success in your Best Ball leagues.

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