Fantasy Football RB Sleepers Hidden Gems for Your Draft

If you want to win your fantasy football league, finding fantasy football RB sleepers is one of the smartest strategies you can use. While the big-name running backs go early in drafts, there’s always hidden value in players who are flying under the radar but have the potential to produce like stars. This guide will help you identify those underrated running backs who could give your fantasy team a serious edge.

Why RB Sleepers Are Crucial in Fantasy Football

Running back is one of the most important positions in fantasy football because it’s both high-scoring and high-risk. Injuries, workload changes, and offensive schemes can dramatically impact RB production. If you only rely on early-round picks for your backfield, you might end up short-handed.

Fantasy football RB sleepers can:

  • Provide starting-caliber production at a lower draft cost

  • Replace injured or underperforming stars

  • Give you trade leverage during the season

By targeting sleepers, you can stack your roster with depth and upside.

Key Traits of a Fantasy Football RB Sleeper

Not every late-round RB is a sleeper—some are just bench warmers. The best RB sleepers typically share a few key traits:

  1. Clear Path to Playing Time – They may be behind an aging starter or in a committee where touches are up for grabs.

  2. Explosive Playmaking Ability – The speed and agility to turn limited touches into big plays.

  3. Favorable Offensive System – Playing in a run-heavy offense or behind a strong offensive line.

  4. Receiving Skills – In PPR leagues, RBs who catch passes can rack up points even if they aren’t the main runner.

Top Fantasy Football RB Sleepers for 2025

Here are some potential fantasy football RB sleepers who could outperform their average draft position (ADP) this season.

1. Jaylen Warren – Pittsburgh Steelers

Warren has shown burst and pass-catching ability, and while Najee Harris is still the starter, the coaching staff has hinted at a more balanced workload. If Warren gets more touches, he could be a top-20 RB.

2. Tank Bigsby – Jacksonville Jaguars

As Travis Etienne’s backup, Bigsby could see goal-line and short-yardage work. If Etienne misses time, Bigsby’s role would skyrocket.

3. Kendre Miller – New Orleans Saints

Injury concerns for Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams open the door for Miller to take on more work. His college tape shows he can handle a lead-back role.

4. Tyjae Spears – Tennessee Titans

Spears is a dynamic runner with pass-catching ability, and with Derrick Henry no longer in his prime, his role could expand significantly.

5. Roschon Johnson – Chicago Bears

Johnson is a strong runner who could work his way into a bigger role if Khalil Herbert or D’Onta Foreman falters.

Draft Strategy for Targeting RB Sleepers

If you want to get the most value from fantasy football RB sleepers, you need a smart draft approach.

1. Avoid Reaching Too Early

Sleepers are valuable because they cost less draft capital. Don’t take them several rounds ahead of their ADP unless you’re sure they’ll break out.

2. Monitor Preseason Usage

Watch how coaches deploy RBs in preseason games. Early signs of extra playing time can reveal a sleeper’s true value.

3. Balance Upside with Stability

Don’t fill your entire RB corps with sleepers. Pair high-upside picks with proven veterans for a balanced roster.

Risks of Relying on RB Sleepers

While sleepers can win you leagues, they also come with risks:

  • Limited Workload – They may stay in a committee role all year.

  • Injury Concerns – Young RBs can get hurt if they suddenly see heavy usage.

  • Coaching Changes – A change in offensive philosophy can reduce touches.

The key is to balance these risks with the potential rewards.

Final Thoughts on Fantasy Football RB Sleepers

Identifying fantasy football RB sleepers can be the difference between finishing in the middle of the pack or hoisting the championship trophy. Look for players with opportunity, talent, and the right team situation. Monitor preseason trends, and don’t be afraid to stash an RB with breakout potential.

When the season begins, you might find that one of these hidden gems becomes the star of your fantasy squad.

Need Help?