Fantasy football managers searching for a late-week boost should pay close attention to backfield workloads and defensive weaknesses before finalizing their Week 5 lineups. Running back streaming can be tricky. That's particularly true when injuries and uncertain roles complicate the decision. However, favorable matchups can create valuable opportunities for overlooked options. There are some running backs who have reasons to attract attention this week, though. Whether it is a potential increase in touches, a defense struggling to contain the run, or an opportunity to handle valuable goal-line work, each of the following names offers intriguing paths to production. For managers needing a flex option or a short-term replacement, the key is identifying who has the clearest route to meaningful touches.
Braelon Allen, NYJ (vs. CLE)
Braelon Allen deserves serious consideration as a streaming option when the New York Jets host the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium. Cleveland has been surprisingly vulnerable against opposing running backs, particularly when it comes to explosive runs and missed tackles. Although the Browns have yet to surrender a rushing touchdown, that statistic should not overshadow the opportunities their broader defensive weaknesses could create. Also, chances are Breece Hall won't play in Week 5.
A projection of at least 16 touches would make Allen particularly attractive for managers seeking dependable volume. His potential involvement near the goal line also offers an avenue to a touchdown. That could significantly boost his fantasy football value. Cleveland's inability to consistently limit explosive runs and finish tackles creates a favorable backdrop, even if its touchdown record suggests some resistance near the end zone.
Aaron Jones Sr., MIN (@ NO)
Aaron Jones Sr. could be one of the more appealing running back options available to fantasy football managers this week. That's thanks to a favorable matchup against the New Orleans Saints. New Orleans ranks 30th against the run and allows an average of 147.8 rushing yards per game. The Saints have also surrendered a league-worst nine rushing touchdowns. That creates an especially enticing opportunity for Minnesota's backfield.
The matchup also appears favorable for his running style. New Orleans has shown a tendency to over-pursue on perimeter stretch plays. If Jones continues to receive the bulk of Minnesota's opportunities, he should have a reasonable chance to produce useful yardage in both phases of the offense.
An 18-touch workload would put him firmly in the RB2 conversation, with the Saints' struggles against rushing scores adding to his appeal. His health and the Vikings' final backfield plans remain worth monitoring, but the matchup makes him difficult to ignore.
Cam Skattebo, NYG (@ WAS)
Cam Skattebo offers a promising combination of workload potential and goal-line involvement against the Washington Commanders. With Jameis Winston starting at quarterback, establishing a credible running game could help New York keep defenses from concentrating exclusively on the passing attack.
Washington has surrendered rushing production, missed tackles, and red-zone scores throughout the opening month. Those problems create an opportunity for Skattebo. His physical approach makes him a natural candidate for short-yardage situations. Even if his yards per carry are modest, a short touchdown could make the difference between a disappointing outing and a successful streaming start.
The Giants will need to maintain a balanced offense, and Skattebo could benefit if they use the running game to take pressure off Winston. Skattebo is a worthwhile flex option with a realistic path to a touchdown and potentially more.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt, WAS (vs. NYG)
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Jacory Croskey-Merritt is a deeper-league streaming candidate worth considering as Washington prepares to face the Giants. Uncertainty surrounding the health of quarterbacks Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota could encourage the Commanders to lean more heavily on the running game and quick checkdowns.
Croskey-Merritt's lateral quickness and open-field burst give him a chance to capitalize when defenders over-pursue. These make him an intriguing option even if his workload remains around 12 to 14 touches. That projected volume is less secure than the opportunities available to some of the other backs on this list. Still, Croskey-Merritt does not necessarily need 20 carries to provide value. He is a speculative flex option best suited to deeper leagues, especially if Washington's quarterback situation encourages a run-heavy approach.
Final Takeaway
Jones and Allen offer the strongest combination of workload potential and favorable matchups. Skattebo brings intriguing goal-line upside. Croskey-Merritt is a deeper-league gamble. Check final injury updates and backfield roles before locking in your Week 5 lineup.