Fantasy football enthusiasts know that the running back position can be a double-edged sword. A true workhorse back, capable of racking up over 300 touches in a season, is a rare gem. Just last year, only nine running backs hit that mark, underscoring the critical nature of volume—and the potential pitfalls that come with it.

Each week, running backs face relentless hits, often landing them in the injury report. They typically accumulate touches not from sideline breather moments but by enduring tackles from massive defensive linemen. This brutal reality means a running back's hold on their starting role can be fragile, creating opportunities for handcuffs to burst onto the fantasy scene. Last season, a whopping 27 running backs enjoyed at least 200 touches, emphasizing that an injury to a starter often propels their backup into the spotlight.

Introducing Handcuff Rankings: Your Guide to Backup Gold!

As we dive into our Week 1 handcuff rankings, we're spotlighting players who might not be in line for the coveted 300 touches but could see a significant uptick in production (18-20 touches per game) should the starter go down. Instead of committee backs like those in Pittsburgh or New England, we're focusing on clear-cut options that can step up. Though we never wish for injury, being prepared is key in fantasy football!

Tier 1: Must-Have Handcuffs You Can't Afford to Ignore!

1. **Zach Charbonnet (RB – SEA)** With Kenneth Walker's injury history and preseason foot issues, Charbonnet is primed for action. After showcasing his skills with over 900 yards and nine touchdowns last season, he’s poised to become a borderline RB1 if Walker misses time.

2. **David Montgomery (RB – DET)** Not your typical handcuff, Montgomery brings significant touchdown potential, making him a weekly Flex play. With 12 touchdowns last year and a solid role in the passing game, he offers value, especially if you don’t own starter Jahmyr Gibbs.

3. **Jordan Mason (RB – MIN)** As Aaron Jones ages and faces durability concerns, Mason's showed promise with 789 rushing yards last season. While the move to Minnesota may be a lateral shift, his opportunity could mirror Montgomery's role and offers substantial value.

4. **Bhayshul Tuten (RB – JAX)** Tuten is a sleeper with star potential, thanks to Jaguars’ head coach Liam Coen drafting him. His superior athleticism and prospects of leading the team in touches could make him a breakout candidate as the season progresses.

5. **Tyler Allgeier (RB – ATL)** Often overlooked, Allgeier remains crucial as Bijan Robinson's backup. With Robinson coming off a 365-touch season, Allgeier is solid insurance worth rostering late in drafts.

Tier 2: Solid Options Worth Taking a Chance On!

6. **Cam Skattebo (RB – NYG)** Skattebo boasts a powerful running style and potential for starting duties. However, the Giants' likely struggles may limit his volume.

7. **J.K. Dobbins (RB – DEN)** As a backup to presumed starter RJ Harvey, Dobbins could emerge as a steady producer, particularly on early downs.

8. **Brian Robinson Jr. (RB – SF)** Having landed in a productive San Francisco offense, Robinson is a hidden gem, especially if Christian McCaffrey's injury history resurfaces.

9. **Ray Davis (RB – BUF)** With prior season performance showing promise in Buffalo's offense, Davis could see a significant opportunity if anything happens to James Cook.

10. **Trey Benson (RB – ARI)** Benson is in line to capitalize on James Conner's extensive workload and potential injury concerns, making him a high-upside pick.

Tier 3: Keep an Eye on These Rising Stars!

11. **Jaydon Blue (RB – DAL)** Watch for Blue to possibly rise to a starting role in Dallas as the season progresses.

12. **Rico Dowdle (RB – CAR)** Dowdle's previous success means he could be a solid option backing up Chuba Hubbard.

13. **Rachaad White (RB – TB) & Sean Tucker (RB – TB)** This duo could create a committee if starter Bucky Irving goes down, with Tucker offering the edge.

14. **Ollie Gordon (RB – MIA)** Gordon displayed skills in college and stands a chance with current injuries impacting Miami’s backfield.

15. **Kendre Miller (RB – NO)** Despite concerns about the Saints' offensive strength, Miller showed flashes of brilliance last season.

16. **Woody Marks (RB – HOU)** Grab Marks late in your draft as insurance against Nick Chubb's injury risks.

17. **Dylan Sampson (RB – CLE)** An athletic option, if he can step up, he could become an asset in the Cleveland backfield.

Keep these rankings in mind as you prepare your fantasy rosters—knowledge is power in the world of fantasy football!