2024 preseason rankings: Top 40 running backs in fantasy football ahead of the 2024 NFL season

Running back is a crucial position. It may not be prioritized as much anymore in the NFL, but it remains key in fantasy football, often the deciding factor of a successful team.

In 2023, Christian McCaffrey returned to form, finishing as the overall RB1 in all league formats. Appearing in his most games in a single season since 2016, McCaffrey led the league in rushing yards and tied with RB2 Raheem Mostert for the season touchdown leader with 21 scores. Entering his age-28 season, McCaffrey is still a strong contender to repeat as the positional king despite his age and injury concerns.

For just the second time in the last 10 seasons, a rookie running back did not crack the top 10 fantasy rankings in 2023. Prized first-round pick Bijan Robinson finished 12th in standard leagues, the most of any first-year player.

No running back was selected in the opening round of the 2024 NFL Draft with Jonathon Brooks being the first selected in the second round. Though no prospect was selected on day one, the draft ended with 20 running backs hearing their names called.

Before the fantasy draft season begins, take a look at Fantasy CPR's top 40 running backs for the 2024 NFL season.

All fantasy rankings are according to FantasyPros and projected offensive line rankings courtesy of PFF.