89 BEST Tips Fantasy Football RB Handcuffs (Why)

Fantasy Football RB Handcuffs - My Very Subjective, Personal Opinion:

Drafting running back handcuffs is like paying for insurance on a junk car—sure, it might help in rare situations, but most of the time, you're just clogging your bench with dead weight.

Focus on players with standalone value instead of hoping for a starter’s injury.

If you’re obsessed with handcuffs, pick wisely—below, I’ll dissect the ones actually worth your time.

Fantasy Football RB Handcuffs - Full Picture:

The concept of running back (RB) handcuffs in fantasy football is often debated, misunderstood, and undervalued. Whether you're a casual player or a seasoned fantasy football veteran aiming for championship glory, understanding the nuances of RB handcuffs can elevate your strategy and improve your chances of victory. This article explores every aspect of RB handcuffs, from their importance to the strategies for selecting them and their historical significance, equipping you with the expertise needed to dominate your league.

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What Are RB Handcuffs?

Definition and Meaning

RB handcuffs are backup running backs who would step into a starting role if the lead running back on their team gets injured or underperforms. The term "handcuff" comes from the idea of locking up an insurance policy for your primary player, ensuring you’re covered in case of unforeseen circumstances.

For example, if Christian McCaffrey were your star RB1, rostering his backup (such as Elijah Mitchell in past seasons) would serve as your insurance policy for keeping productivity within your lineup, even if McCaffrey were sidelined.

Why Handcuffs Are Relevant

Handcuffs are particularly important in fantasy football due to the volatility of the running back position. Injuries, inconsistencies, or even changes in coaching strategy can affect player availability and role. Backups often thrive in a starting role when given the opportunity, providing fantasy managers with value where there might otherwise be none.

The Importance of RB Handcuffs

Injury Rates Among Running Backs

The running back position is one of the most physically demanding roles in the NFL. Players are subject to high-impact hits on nearly every play, whether running the ball or pass-blocking. Studies from past seasons show that starting running backs miss an average of 3-5 games per year due to injury. This stat underscores the importance of having a handcuff who can step into the lead role.

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Protecting Your Fantasy Investment

You may invest a first or second-round draft pick on an elite RB, such as Austin Ekeler or Saquon Barkley. Losing such a high-value player can derail your season if you don’t have a plan in place. By drafting or picking up handcuffs, you minimize the risk of losing productivity in your lineup when injury strikes.

Handcuffs as Trade Assets

Handcuffs are not just insurance for your own roster; they can also become valuable trade assets. If the starting RB on another manager’s team goes down and you’ve rostered their handcuff, you hold a bargaining chip that can net significant returns.

Strategies for Selecting RB Handcuffs

Roster Your Own RB’s Handcuff

The most straightforward strategy is to handcuff your starting RB. If you’ve invested a high draft pick in a top-tier running back, securing their backup ensures that you retain most of that player’s workload in the event of an injury.

Target High-Upside Handcuffs on Other Teams

Sometimes, it pays to focus on backups who aren’t tied to your team but have significant upside.

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For example:

• AJ Dillon (when behind Aaron Jones) thrives in situations where he gets additional carries.

• Alexander Mattison gained prominence as a highly productive starter during Dalvin Cook’s absences in Minnesota.

Monitoring these backups and grabbing them at the right time can provide immense value.

Prioritize Handcuffs in Good Offensive Systems

It’s essential to evaluate the team’s offensive scheme when selecting handcuffs. Backups in high-scoring offenses (e.g., Kansas City Chiefs or San Francisco 49ers) tend to perform better when given opportunities because of better offensive line play and scoring opportunities.

Key factors to consider:

• Offensive line grades and rankings

• Team’s tendency to favor the run game

• Quality of the quarterback (who keeps defenses honest)

Identify Springboard Scenarios

Not all handcuffs are created equal. Some backups are in line for a full workload if the starter is injured, while others may split time.

For example:

• A player like Tony Pollard in Dallas was poised to absorb most of the workload during Ezekiel Elliott's injuries.

• Contrast this with situations where teams deploy a running back by committee (e.g., New England Patriots), lessening the upside of any individual back.

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Famous Historical Examples of RB Handcuffs

Alexander Mattison (2020-2022)

Mattison directly benefited from the injury-prone tendencies of Dalvin Cook in recent seasons. When Cook was sidelined, Mattison averaged over 20 carries and 100 total yards per game, proving himself as one of the most valuable handcuffs in fantasy football.

James Conner (2018)

During Le’Veon Bell's contract holdout in the 2018 season, James Conner emerged as a top-10 fantasy running back. Those who handcuffed Bell with Conner not only avoided disaster but gained a star performer.

Kareem Hunt (2020)

Though sharing touches with Nick Chubb in Cleveland, Hunt’s value skyrocketed when Chubb missed time. His pass-catching prowess and knack for finding the end zone made him an RB1 in Chubb’s absence.

When Are Handcuffs Worth the Roster Spot?

League Format Considerations

The value of RB handcuffs depends on your league’s format:

• Shallow Leagues (8-10 teams): It may not always be necessary to roster a handcuff since there are plenty of starting RB options available on waivers.

• Deep Leagues (12+ teams): Handcuffs become significantly more important as the pool of available free agents is far slimmer.

• Best Ball Formats: Handcuffs are especially valuable here since you don’t need to manage lineups. They are automatically slotted in when the starter is hurt.

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Bench Size

Rosters with limited bench spots demand more careful decision-making. If you’re debating between a high-upside WR versus a handcuff RB, consider what provides more immediate and long-term value.

Midseason vs. Draft Day

Handcuffs tend to rise in value as the season progresses. Early in the year, they may sit on your bench for weeks with no payoff. By midseason, however, high-value handcuffs frequently emerge as league winners. Examples include Rachaad White after Leonard Fournette’s injury timeline or Samaje Perine when Joe Mixon missed games.

List of High-Priority RB Handcuffs for 2023

Must-Have Handcuffs

• Elijah Mitchell (49ers): Backing up an injury-prone Christian McCaffrey in a run-heavy offense.

• AJ Dillon (Packers): Offers standalone value and thrives when given lead duties.

• Tyler Allgeier (Falcons): High-volume option behind rookie Bijan Robinson.

High-Upside Lottery Tickets

• Zach Charbonnet (Seahawks): Could see a huge role if Kenneth Walker III misses time.

• Tank Bigsby (Jaguars): Poised to take over for Travis Etienne if needed.

• Kendre Miller (Saints): Could shine with Alvin Kamara’s injury history and suspensions.

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Expert Tips for Managing RB Handcuffs

Stay Ahead of the Waiver Wire

An elite handcuff can become the hottest waiver pickup of the week if an injury occurs. Be proactive by stashing high-value backups before they become sought-after commodities.

Understand Team Depth Charts

Not all backups are obvious. Some teams keep a "committee approach" that isn't easily predictable. Diving into preseason depth charts or beat reporter insights can help identify which RB would get the lion’s share of work if the starter is sidelined.

Handcuff Multiple Running Backs

If you lack confidence in your RB starters, consider rostering handcuffs from multiple teams. This approach provides a safety net and increases your odds of hitting on a high-value replacement.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is a fantasy football RB handcuff?

A fantasy football RB handcuff is a backup running back on an NFL team who is expected to step into the lead role if the starting running back is injured, underperforms, or misses time for any reason.

2. Why should I roster RB handcuffs in fantasy football?

RB handcuffs protect your team from the impact of losing a star running back to injury or other circumstances. They ensure you maintain productivity at the position and can sometimes deliver significant value, even as backups.

3. Are RB handcuffs more important in deep leagues?

Yes, RB handcuffs are generally more critical in deeper leagues where the waiver wire is thin. With fewer quality options available, having a handcuff can save your season if your starting RB gets hurt.

4. How do I know which RB handcuffs are the most valuable?

Look for backups behind injury-prone or heavily utilized starters, playing in strong offensive systems with reliable offensive lines. Also, consider handcuffs with a clear path to significant volume, rather than committee splits.

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5. Should I draft my running back's handcuff or someone else's?

This depends on your roster strategy. Handcuffing your own running back provides insurance, while targeting someone else’s handcuff can be a high-upside gamble or trade asset if their starter gets injured.

6. Are RB handcuffs worth drafting early?

Usually, handcuffs are better drafted in the mid-to-late rounds unless they offer standalone value. Players like AJ Dillon or Tony Pollard in previous seasons had considerable value even when the starter was healthy.

7. Do all running backs need a handcuff?

Not necessarily. Some players, like Derrick Henry or Jonathan Taylor in past seasons, have proven durable and don’t always warrant insurance. However, it’s still a good idea to assess each situation based on injury risk and offensive role.

8. Should I draft handcuffs in shallow leagues?

Handcuffs are less essential in shallow leagues (e.g., 8-10 team leagues) because the waiver wire often has serviceable replacements. You might be better off targeting upside players instead.

9. What are examples of high-priority handcuffs for 2023?

Some high-priority handcuffs for 2023 include Elijah Mitchell (49ers), AJ Dillon (Packers), and Zach Charbonnet (Seahawks). They could see major workloads if the starters ahead of them miss time.

10. Are RB handcuffs useful in best ball leagues?

Yes, RB handcuffs are especially valuable in best ball leagues because lineups are set automatically each week. If a starter goes down, a handcuff automatically steps into your active roster when they perform well.

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11. Can handcuffs be used as trade bait?

Absolutely. If you have a handcuff and the starter on another team gets injured, you hold valuable leverage in trade negotiations that can bolster other parts of your roster.

12. How often do starting RBs miss time due to injury?

Starting RBs typically miss an average of 3-5 games per season due to injury, making it necessary to prepare with handcuffs, particularly for injury-prone players.

13. Are all RB backups considered handcuffs?

No, not all backups are handcuffs. True handcuffs have a clear path to a heavy workload if the starter is out. Teams utilizing committee approaches may lack a true handcuff who can take on a full role.

14. What factors should I consider when picking a handcuff?

Evaluate the backup’s talent, the potential workload if the starter is injured, the team's offensive system, and the injury history of the starting running back.

15. Can handcuffs win your fantasy league?

Yes, in the right circumstances, a handcuff can become a league-winner. Past examples include James Conner replacing Le’Veon Bell and Tony Pollard stepping up for Ezekiel Elliott.

16. What is a "lottery ticket" handcuff?

A "lottery ticket" handcuff refers to a backup RB with explosive upside but no guaranteed role unless the starter is injured. These players can become fantasy stars under the right conditions.

17. When should I start rostering handcuffs?

You can start drafting handcuffs late in your fantasy draft or stash them on your roster midseason as depth. They tend to gain value later in the year due to injuries or role changes.

18. Are there any handcuffs with standalone value?

Yes, some handcuffs, like AJ Dillon or Tony Pollard in past seasons, have standalone flex value due to consistent usage alongside the starter.

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19. Should I drop a high-upside WR for a handcuff?

This depends on your team’s needs. If you’re desperate for RB insurance and the WR doesn’t play a pivotal role in your lineup, it might be worth making the switch.

20. Do RB handcuffs matter in playoff weeks?

Yes, handcuffs can become critical during fantasy playoff weeks if starters are injured by that point in the NFL season. Many fantasy championships have been won by managers with the right handcuff.

21. What’s a good way to identify breakout handcuffs?

Pay attention to team depth charts, preseason performances, and injury histories. Listening to beat reporters and scouting the coaches' tendencies can also help you pinpoint potential breakout handcuffs.

22. Should I roster multiple handcuffs?

If bench space allows, rostering multiple high-upside handcuffs can increase your chances of hitting on a season-changing RB. However, be mindful of balancing this approach with positional depth.

23. Are veteran backups better handcuffs than rookies?

Not necessarily. While veteran backups may offer more experience, rookies often provide fresh legs and explosive play potential. Assess the individual player’s talent and opportunity instead.

24. What’s the difference between a handcuff and a committee back?

A handcuff typically only plays if the starter is out, while a committee back shares carries regardless of the starter’s health. Handcuffs usually have a clearer path to a full workload.

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25. Can handcuffs make waiver-wire strategies easier?

Yes, stashing handcuffs before an injury occurs can minimize the need for frantic waiver claims later. This helps ensure you don’t miss out on valuable replacements.

26. Should I handcuff my RB1 and RB2?

If both RBs have high injury risks or volatile situations, handcuffing them can be a wise move. Focus on prioritizing your top running back's backup first.

27. Is it worth drafting a handcuff before the starter gets injured?

Yes, drafting a handcuff ahead of time prevents you from competing with other managers on the waiver wire. It’s a proactive way to secure valuable insurance.

28. How do bye weeks impact the value of handcuffs?

Handcuffs may lose some appeal during bye weeks if they’re occupying a roster spot but not seeing playing time. Plan your strategy to ensure you can still field an active lineup.

29. Are handcuffs less important in PPR leagues?

They might hold slightly less value in PPR formats if they lack receiving skills. However, handcuffs with pass-catching ability, like Kareem Hunt or Rachaad White, remain essential in PPR leagues.

30. Do NFL coaching changes affect handcuff values?

Yes, coaching changes can significantly impact the worth of an RB handcuff. New schemes may favor committee approaches or highlight different players as backups. Always monitor offseason news.

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Conclusion

RB handcuffs are more than just a security blanket—they can become season-altering assets.

While not every handcuff will pan out, having a keen eye for talent, opportunity, and the right roster management will give you a distinct advantage.

Whether you’re protecting your investments or strategically targeting league-winning backups, mastering the art of RB handcuffs can set you apart as a savvy manager in your fantasy football league.