Here's how Sean Koerner — the No. 1 in-season ranker in three of the past five seasons according to FantasyPros — is approaching five running backs available on the waiver wire in a majority of fantasy football leagues in the fallout of major injuries to their teammates.
Mike Davis, RB, Panthers
If the Panthers start off 0-6, are they really going to rush Christian McCaffrey back? There's a chance CMC never returns to 100% this year — I can see them shutting him down late in the season with their sights set on quarterback prospect Trevor Lawrence.
Davis is the safest bet for RB2 production for four to six weeks. If I'm 0-2 in a league, I'm targeting Davis.
Devonta Freeman, RB, Giants
The Giants officially agreed to terms with Freeman, who was likely brought in to be the lead back. Dion Lewis may be the better Week 3 play while Freeman gets up to speed on this offense, but from Week 4 on, this could be Freeman's backfield — he should have RB2/3 value through the remainder of the season.
If I'm 2-0, he's the running back I would target.
Dion Lewis, RB, Giants
Obviously, Freeman's signing makes Lewis a tough add this week. If you're into three-way committee on a sub-.500 team, go for it — but don't spend more than $10 of your Free Agent Acquisition Budget.
Darrell Henderson, RB, Rams
The Rams' backfield is very similar to the Ravens' — it'll be musical chairs for RB2 value going forward. With Cam Akers (rib cartilage) banged up, I expect Henderson to be a fantasy RB2 this week, though Akers and Malcolm Brown cap Henderson's long-term upside.
Jerick McKinnon, RB, 49ers
JM is an RB2 for at least a week given the knee injuries that Raheem Mostert and Tevin Coleman suffered this past Sunday. There's a chance Mostert returns in Week 4 or 5, so McKinnon might just be a short-term rental. But given the injuries on the 49ers defense, more pass-happy game scripts could favor JM.
