Fantasy Football 2022: Ranking top 15 rookie RBs for dynasty and redraft leagues
Fantasy expert Jacob Gibbs provides an in-depth analytical breakdown for the exciting 2022 rookie class of RBs.
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We have been spoiled by some superbly talented rookie RB classes recently. It feels a bit unfair to compare the 2022 class to drafts that have delivered the likes of Jonathan Taylor, D'Andre Swift, Najee Harris, and Javonte Williams -- all of whom are consensus top-10 RB for Dynasty purposes heading into 2022. I couldn't help but reminisce on the impressive metrics of previous rookie RBs as I evaluated this year's group, and it left me feeling a bit underwhelmed.
Iowa State standout Breece Hall has been touted as a Jonathan Taylor-like prospect, but his analytical profile did not stand out -- if he, Swift, Harris, Travis Etienne, and Williams were in the same class, I believe Hall would be the worst prospect of the group. Hall is clearly the most complete and proven RB prospect in his class, so it's no surprise to see him as the 1.01 in Dynasty start-ups. After Hall, the 2022 class offers many situationally intriguing RB talents.
The 2022 class really has a bit of everything. Early-down workhorse Kenneth Walker out of Michigan State could establish himself as a Nick Chubb or Josh Jacobs-like dominant presence on the ground. The Buffalo Bills added explosive playmaking pass-catcher, James Cook, out of Georgia in Round 2, and he will immediately add a new element to one of the league's most dangerous offenses. Cook highlights an exciting group of rookie dual-threat backs who could make an impact as pass-catchers at the NFL level -- Rachaad White out of Arizona State, Missouri's Tyler Badie, and Travis Ebner from Baylor are the others whose CFB data jumped off the page.
Exploring the data on the 2022 class was an entertaining and illuminating experience. I legitimately believe that this class brings more value late-round options capable of contributing Fantasy-relevant results in the right role than either of the past two rookie RB groups. The talent at the top-end isn't as impressive as we have grown accustomed to, but you shouldn't let that prevent you from spending some time getting to know this class -- there are some guys who could make the most of an opportunity if it arises in 2022.
Which five rookie RBs should you be prioritizing in season-long and dynasty drafts? And which one is already a top-15 Fantasy RB? ... Join SportsLine right now to see Jacob Gibbs' top-five rookie RBs, plus get the entire 2021 Fantasy Football Draft Bible, all from an analytics-driven expert who crushed the 2020 season!
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