Top 50 RB standard options for Week 5 fantasy football

Author’s updated 10/5 3:20 p.m.: Following the release of Friday’s practice reports we have updated our rankings. James Conner was removed from the injury report and figures to share snaps with Jaylen Samuels. Damien Williams also made significant process during the week and we’ll see how the touches shake out between him, LeSean McCoy and Darrel Williams. Saquon Barkley returned to practice, but is listed as out for Week 5. Devin Singletary will be a game-time decision so you’ll have to check Sunday’s report to see his status. Finally, Rex Burkhead is out and has been removed from the rankings.

Editor’s update 10/3: Two practices into Week 5, we’ve got plenty to consider on the injury reports and have updated our rankings accordingly. Most notably, Chiefs running back Damien Williams put in two straight full participation practices and seems on track to play on Sunday vs. the Colts. That will impact LeSean McCoy and/or Darrel Williams, with the latter more likely to take a hit in playing time. The Chiefs offense has mostly good matchups this season, but with so many questions in the backfield, it might be wiser to stay away.

The bruising backs led the way in Week 4 daily fantasy football. Nick Chubb obliterated the Baltimore Ravens en route to a 3 touchdown day. Jordan Howard actually got the 3-TD party started on Thursday night with 2 rushing touchdowns and 1 receiving touchdown against the Green Bay Packers. Leonard Fournette didn’t find the end zone, but he did hang 225 rushing yards against the Denver Broncos. Many daily fantasy players drafted Wayne Gallman Jr who started in place of the injured Saquon Barkley. Many daily fantasy players were very pleased with their decision after Gallman had an impressive game against a very unimpressive Washington defense.

Heading into Week 5 we’ll need the monitor the injury reports for James Connor and Marlon Mack. Connor seems to be the most at risk of missing his Week 5 contest, but both could be very useful if they healthy enough to play. Melvin Gordon is back! He didn’t play in Week 4, but his return certainly changes how we view Austin Eckeler going forward. Though if you can tolerate the risk, both Chargers backs might be fine plays against the Denver Broncos.

There are a few divisional games that could be ripe for running back success in Week 5. Thursday night might be a good night for Chris Carson when the Seattle Seahawks play the Los Angeles Rams who’ve given up the 8th most points to the position this season. Mark Ingram continues to run well and the Ravens’ divisional rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers are struggling to stop the run thus far.

We’ve got all the running backs to consider as you head into Week 5 for your standard fantasy football leagues.