NFL 2018: Top 12 0.5 PPR NFL Fantasy Running Backs

#1 Leveon Bell - Pittsburgh Steelers - 2017 total = 299.1 pts

Pittsburgh Steelers v Cleveland Browns

Now, you could make an argument that any of the 'top 4' elite running backs could come out on top here. But for me, Leveon Bell is just ranked ahead of the others, due to his exceptional mix of speed, power, patience and soft hands. Every year he is picked within the first couple of picks in fantasy drafts and it's easy to see why.

Bell is a true 3 down back and it's his usage in the receiving game that makes him stand apart from the rest of the field. He totalled 85 receptions last year which is very valuable in PPR and half PPR leagues. Bell is blessed with a fantastic offensive line that facilitates his patient approach. He starts off slow, but as soon as a gap appears, BOOM, he's through it before any defenders can lay a hand on him.

Last year Bell finished as the number 2 fantasy running back, finishing with 11 total TDs. I see him having closer to 14 this year, with him gaining a couple more in the receiving game, as he only had 2 last year. My only concern is his contract situation. Last season he stayed away from OTAs and preseason and you could see that he was slow getting back into his rhythm. Let's hope he participates fully this year and can hit the ground running (pun intended).