Guest of the League
Midseason Fantasy Football Report: Running Back
By The Commissioner Thu Oct 9 6:05am CT
Updated by The Commissioner Thu Oct 9 6:08am CT
Updated by The Commissioner Thu Oct 9 6:08am CT
As the 2025 fantasy football season reaches its midpoint, a new storyline has emerged across the league: the true measure of success isn't just in total points it's in value. This week's Running Back Value Leaders report highlights which teams are getting the best return on investment from their backfields compared to preseason expectations.
Top Value Teams
Mr. Swift's Fantasy Experience headlines the list, boasting the league's most efficient RB tandem. Javonte Williams and James Cook have both crushed their average draft positions (ADP), combining for a staggering +36 in total value. Their breakout performances have anchored the team's surge into title contention.
Close behind, Cobra Kai continues to impress with first-rounder Bijan Robinson living up to the hype and Kyren Williams proving to be one of the season's best steals. Their combined +26 ADP value gain highlights savvy drafting and sharp management.
Meanwhile, Mt. Vernon Maulers are climbing fast, thanks to strong performances from J.K. Dobbins and breakout rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Their +23 value gain puts them firmly in the conversation for best midseason turnaround.
Solid and Steady Performers
50 Shades of Great continues to find success through balance. Jonathan Taylorâs resurgence and Travis Etienne's reliability have given this team an efficient and versatile backfield.
Manklinkoes, powered by Christian McCaffrey and rookie dynamo Devon Achane, remain dangerous even as McCaffrey battles through occasional injury concerns.
Spanky Rookies and Two Dogs round out the league's most consistent performers, fielding veteran-laden backfields that deliver dependable production week after week.
Teams Needing a Second-Half Surge
Not every roster has hit the mark. Brooklyn Bombers have battled through injuries to Saquon Barkley, and Amaraqs are waiting for stars Jahmyr Gibbs and Breece Hall to fully ignite. Both squads have the talent but need second-half surges to climb back into playoff contention.
League Takeaways
Biggest Draft Steal: Kyren Williams (Cobra Kai) outproducing his ADP by more than two rounds.
Most Reliable Workhorse: Jonathan Taylor (50 Shades of Great) back to elite RB1 status after a slow start.
Quiet Value Engine: J.K. Dobbins (Mt. Vernon Maulers) delivering steady RB2 numbers week after week.
Top Value Teams
Mr. Swift's Fantasy Experience headlines the list, boasting the league's most efficient RB tandem. Javonte Williams and James Cook have both crushed their average draft positions (ADP), combining for a staggering +36 in total value. Their breakout performances have anchored the team's surge into title contention.
Close behind, Cobra Kai continues to impress with first-rounder Bijan Robinson living up to the hype and Kyren Williams proving to be one of the season's best steals. Their combined +26 ADP value gain highlights savvy drafting and sharp management.
Meanwhile, Mt. Vernon Maulers are climbing fast, thanks to strong performances from J.K. Dobbins and breakout rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Their +23 value gain puts them firmly in the conversation for best midseason turnaround.
Solid and Steady Performers
50 Shades of Great continues to find success through balance. Jonathan Taylorâs resurgence and Travis Etienne's reliability have given this team an efficient and versatile backfield.
Manklinkoes, powered by Christian McCaffrey and rookie dynamo Devon Achane, remain dangerous even as McCaffrey battles through occasional injury concerns.
Spanky Rookies and Two Dogs round out the league's most consistent performers, fielding veteran-laden backfields that deliver dependable production week after week.
Teams Needing a Second-Half Surge
Not every roster has hit the mark. Brooklyn Bombers have battled through injuries to Saquon Barkley, and Amaraqs are waiting for stars Jahmyr Gibbs and Breece Hall to fully ignite. Both squads have the talent but need second-half surges to climb back into playoff contention.
League Takeaways
Biggest Draft Steal: Kyren Williams (Cobra Kai) outproducing his ADP by more than two rounds.
Most Reliable Workhorse: Jonathan Taylor (50 Shades of Great) back to elite RB1 status after a slow start.
Quiet Value Engine: J.K. Dobbins (Mt. Vernon Maulers) delivering steady RB2 numbers week after week.
