ZeroRB is a fantasy draft approach that starts by avoiding running backs in the first six rounds and begins building the RB room in round six or seven. The idea, as laid out by proponents, is to lean into starting three or more wide receivers and maximize flexibility in full-PPR formats. It’s highlighted as a strategy that can be a championship path in Flex 10 leagues (three WRs and a flex, 10 starters) but is not recommended for Flex 9 leagues (two WRs and a flex, nine starters), where early RBs are often too valuable to pass up.
Format notes and strategy context
– Flex 9 is the default format on many platforms, with customization options to add a third WR or extra flex spots. The bottom line for ZeroRB advocacy is that if you can start more than three wide receivers and play in a full-PPR setting, ZeroRB deserves serious consideration.
– The writer describes following a Round 7 start for the ZeroRB build, extending to Round 6 or even Round 7 depending on the ADP source used. The selections below are presented in the order they’re drafted, with the author’s personal ranking included but framed as market-relative rather than a hard endorsement.
Round 7
– Jaylen Warren, PIT (RB30, overall 80, author’s RB28): Warren is praised for versatility across rushing, receiving, and pass protection. The author notes rookie Kaleb Johnson had a rocky summer and compares Warren’s potential role to a solid but not dominant first way back in the backfield. Warren is viewed as a better fit in an offense led by Aaron Rodgers, particularly as a receiving option and in pass protection, than a rookie back would be.
– Jordan Mason, MIN (RB32, overall 90, author’s RB26): The Vikings’ recent usage suggests a meaningful late-season opportunity, with the backfield repeatedly crossing the 390 rushing attempts range last year. The author expects Mason to pick up goal-line duties and sees a 50/50 or split workload as a plausible scenario if Jones remains healthy.
Round 8
– J.K. Dobbins, DEN (RB35, overall 101, author’s RB32): The backfield in Denver is described as potentially three-deep, with Dobbins expected to handle touchdown opportunities after scoring nine times last year and converting short-yardage tries at a strong clip. The note implies a path to value if he locks into a lead role or shares the backfield effectively.
– Zach Charbonnet, SEA (RB36, overall 102, author’s RB24): Charbonnet is positioned as a potential primary back or a lead back in a split situation with Kenneth Walker. The author cites Charbonnet’s productive four-game stretch against a healthy Walker as evidence he could win the job or secure a sizable share, with Walker’s injury risk considered as a bonus.
Round 10
– Austin Ekeler, WAS (RB44, overall 131, author’s RB40): Ekeler is framed as a high-floor option in Washington’s backfield, especially with Brian Robinson moved on. The author notes Ekeler’s efficiency metrics from the prior season (yards per carry, yards per target, success rate) and projects a potential workload increase if opportunities materialize, including up to 200 touches.
Round 11
– Braelon Allen, NYJ (RB46, overall 137, author’s RB42): Allen is viewed as a second back behind a starter who has durability concerns. The comparison to a Lions-style approach for the Jets’ backfield suggests a committee dynamic with Breece Hall or similar talent in the lead role. While Allen’s size and power draw praise, the analysis flags questions about his ability to break tackles consistently.
– Bhayshul Tuten, JAX (RB48, overall 141, author’s RB44): Tuten’s athletic profile is exceptional, but historical data on athletic scores versus on-field production is mixed. The writer notes comparisons to a few successful late-round backs and points to Tuten’s potential as a complementary piece in the Jaguars’ backfield, though there are uncertainties about his role and usage.
Round 13
– Dylan Sampson, CLE (RB55, overall 164, author’s RB34): Sampson is described with a borderline second-round scouting grade and a compact, pass-catching profile. The analysis highlights competition within Cleveland’s backfield and questions about his size and college experience, while pointing to a path for passing-game usage.
Last picks
– Kyle Monangai, CHI (RB60, overall 213, author’s RB59): Monangai is seen as a late-round stash who would benefit if the Bears’ backfield becomes unsettled. The write-up emphasizes his elusiveness and balance but notes a lack of standout gear that would push him into a primary role.
– Chris Rodriguez, WAS (RB76, overall 275, author’s RB51): Rodriguez is highlighted as a potential goal-line option after a notable performance in a recent preseason context. The writer suggests Rodriguez could see opportunities if Brian Robinson’s role shifts post-trade, though the rest of the backfield competition remains a factor.
What the approach offers and what to watch
– The ZeroRB path can unlock elite wide receiver depth and a different way to build a competitive roster in full-PPR formats, particularly in Flex 10 leagues.
– Key risks include the volatility of late-round RB health and opportunity, the potential for a crowded backfield to cap ceiling, and the need to stay agile as ADP and camp reports shift.
– For readers considering ZeroRB, it helps to monitor early-season injury reports, backfield committee dynamics, and the emergence of a clear favored back in the post-draft weeks. Adapting the plan to your league’s scoring and roster size is essential.
Summary and perspective
– The author lays out a clear case for ZeroRB in Flex 10 leagues, arguing that the strategy can yield a robust WR corps and a flexible lineup while still supplying competent RB production from mid-round picks. The selections emphasize a mix of veterans with proven production and high-upside backs who could carve out a larger role if opportunities arise. This approach hinges on favorable depth at receiver and tight end and a willingness to embrace a potential backfield committee or later breakout performances.
– Positive spin: If the WR class performs as expected and contributors in later rounds seize meaningful roles, ZeroRB can create a high-floor, high-ceiling roster that thrives in pass-heavy leagues while staying adaptable to in-season changes and injuries.
– Practical takeaway: In leagues that reward wide receiver depth and pass-catching backs, ZeroRB offers a compelling path to a balanced, potentially championship-caliber lineup. As with any strategy, success will depend on genre-specific league settings, player developments, and disciplined in-season management.