2023 Fantasy Football Week 1: Start Em’ or Sit Em’ Running Backs

Each week we’ll break down one player that should start in your fantasy lineup and one that would be better left on the bench per position. There are players like Christian McCaffrrey and Austin Ekeler who are matchup proof and should be in your starting lineups every week barring a major circumstance.

Running Backs to Start:

Aaron Jones

With multiple receivers being out, Jordan Love’s first season starting off as the starter is going to be a rough one. One person Jordan Love can rely on is Aaron Jones who should make for a nice dual threat on the ground and on short passing routes. Aaron Jones is one of our favorite backs of the week against a dismal Bears defense. 

Cam Akers 

With Cooper Kupp out, the Los Angeles Rams are going to need to change up their plan of the attack for the start of the season. We think that the Rams are going to get the Cam Akers they got for the second half of the season that was actually with it and playing well. Cam Akers is one of the more talented players on the offense and should see plenty of touches this game.

Raheem Mostert

Mostert is currently the only fully healthy running back on the Dolphins roster which makes him a fantasy relevant option by default. The Dolphins last year ran a one-two punch with Mostert & Wilson Jr where one or the other would have breakout games. Without Wilson Jr, Mostert is the lead back and should be flex-worthy against a Chargers defense that doesn’t do great against the run.

Running Backs to Sit:

Najee Harris

You’re probably going to end up getting stuck starting Najee Harris, but we would recommend looking for better options to stream. Najee Harris goes up against a top 3 defense in the NFL in the San Francisco 49ers. We’re not liking anyone on the Steelers offense this week, especially with Bosa in the game after just signing the most expensive defensive deal in NFL history. 

James Cook

Cook wasn’t very exciting to watch in 2022 as the lead back in Buffalo. The Bills are giving him another chance this year, but they brought in Damien Harris which will give him some competition. This matchup against the Jets won’t give us a clear picture of how the Bills intend to use the running back duo as it should be a shootout through the air. 

D’Andre Swift

The Eagles moved on from Miles Sanders and brought in D’Andre Swift as his replacement. They also brought in veteran back Rashaad Penny to get some touches as well. We’re not sure how this committee will look and until we get a clearer picture, going up against a tough New England defense.