5 RB fantasy busts to avoid in 2024 season ft. Raheem Mostert

Running backs have always been among the most popular fantasy football players to target in the early rounds of drafts. It's extremely difficult for any manager to navigate the position without an elite option, so a failure to land one can result in an ability to optimize weekly lineups.

When deciding which running backs to target during draft season, many factors must be taken into consideration. Past individual performances don't necessarily predict future success as each new season brings a new set of variables for each player. Using this concept, here are five running backs that should be avoided during the 2024 fantasy football season.

5 RB fades in 2024 fantasy football

Austin Ekeler (image credit: Getty)

#1 - Austin Ekeler

Austin Ekeler has been a top-three fantasy football running back since taking over as the full-time starter for the Los Angeles Chargers. However, a team change to the Washington Commanders could potentially tank his overall value.

He is currently projected to serve as their RB2 behind Brian Robinson Jr. and may be utilized as a receiving specialist. While he may have some value in this role, his days of being an elite weekly starter appear to be over.

#2 - Alvin Kamara

Alvin Kamara has impressively finished among the top 20 running backs in season-long scoring in every season of his career with the New Orleans Saints so far.

The potential issue with his outlook this year is the presence of Kendre Miller. The Saints invested a draft pick in him last year, but he spent most of the season injured. He has a similar skillset as Kamara, so if the two of them split the workload, it could mean a down year for the veteran's fantasy stock.

#3 - Raheem Mostert

Raheem Mostert broke out in a major way last season, finishing as the overall RB2 in season-long scoring behind only Christian McCaffrey. He benefited from De'Von Achane being injured for most of the year, as the rookie flashed elite upside in his limited playing time. Add in the Miami Dolphins also drafting Jaylen Wright this year and Mostert could see a significantly diminished role this season.

#4 - Tony Pollard

Tony Pollard failed to meet his massive expectations last season as the featured back for the Dallas Cowboys, but he still finished as the overall RB15 in fantasy football.

After parting ways with the Cowboys during the offseason, Pollard will now join the Tennessee Titans. He will be playing in a much less productive offense and splitting carries with Tyjae Spears, which both suggest his production taking a step backward this year.

#5 - James Conner

James Conner has been solid in his three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, finishing among the top 20 running backs in all of them. He has done so as their clearly featured running back, but this season may include a reduction to his overall workload.

The Cardinals used a third-round pick in the 224 NFL draft on Trey Benson rather than addressing one of their many other needs, so it can be assumed that they think highly of his abilities to contribute to their offense.