NFL 2018: 5 Running Backs that are being undervalued

#4 Duke Johnson – Cleveland Browns

Current ADP = 39th RB off of the board at 8.10

Cleveland Browns v Baltimore Ravens

Duke Johnson surprised everyone in 2017 when he finished as the RB11 on the season. Johnson only had 82 attempts on the ground, but it was his use in the passing game that lifted him into RB1 territory. His 74 receptions ranked 4th among all Running Backs.

So why is he being drafted as the 39th RB off of the board when his role hasn’t changed? Yes, the Browns signed Carlos Hyde and drafted Nick Chubb, but they will mainly battle it out for the early down work. Johnson’s role was secured when he signed a 3-year $15 million contract this offseason.

It is likely that Johnson sees some regression this season, but I think he will perform better than the 39th RB. The Browns offense is looking like it could be a genuine force this season after recruiting Tyrod Taylor, Jarvis Landry and Hyde. As fantasy experts will tell you, a Running Back on a winning team is usually better than a Running Back on a losing team. At this moment in time, Johnson is a huge value pick in the 8th round.