Finding a productive running back on the fantasy football waiver wire is never easy, especially when injuries and inconsistent workloads leave managers searching for answers.
With NFL Week 7 approaching, Bam Knight, Samaje Perine, and Tyrone Tracy Jr. are three options worth considering if you need a last-minute boost. Each comes with some uncertainty, but the right opportunity could make any of them a useful addition to your lineup.
Bam Knight, Arizona Cardinals Week 7
Bam Knight could be an intriguing streaming option this week if injuries open the door for a larger role in the Arizona Cardinals' backfield. It's a risky play, but fantasy managers searching for an available running back should consider what Knight could offer.
Knight scored 11.8 points in ESPN PPR leagues last week, giving managers a glimpse of his potential. That was his first notable fantasy performance of the season after receiving only two carries in Week 2. With Jeremiyah Love unavailable, Knight could have an opportunity to build on that performance if Arizona gives him a larger workload.
Tyler Allgeier has yet to make the most of his opportunities this season, potentially creating an opening for Knight to earn more touches. However, fantasy managers should be cautious about assuming Knight will automatically become the lead back. His value depends on how Arizona distributes its carries and whether he can maintain a meaningful role.
Knight is rostered in just 7.1% of ESPN leagues, with his roster percentage jumping 4.7% this week. He's a low-cost gamble for managers who need help at running back and are willing to embrace some uncertainty.
Samaje Perine, Cincinnati Bengals Week 7
Samaje Perine is worth considering for fantasy managers looking for a last-minute running back option after a productive performance before Cincinnati's bye week. The veteran showed what he can offer when given an expanded workload, although his role remains worth monitoring.
Perine recorded 14 carries for 68 yards against the Miami Dolphins, adding two receptions for 10 yards and a receiving touchdown. His performance was encouraging, particularly because he received more carries than fellow running back Chase Brown. Perine finished with 15.8 fantasy points in ESPN PPR leagues, demonstrating how useful he can be when the Bengals give him opportunities.
The challenge is whether he can replicate that production against the Baltimore Ravens. Brown remains a major factor in Cincinnati's backfield, making Perine's workload difficult to predict from week to week. The Ravens also present a challenging matchup, so fantasy managers shouldn't expect another touchdown to guarantee a productive outing.
Still, Perine's ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver gives him some appeal in PPR formats. He's rostered in 10.8% of ESPN leagues, with his roster percentage increasing just 0.3% this week. He's a possible streaming option for managers in need of running back depth, but his uncertain workload makes him a risk.
Article Continues BelowTyrone Tracy Jr., New York Giants Week 7
The New York Giants' running back situation remains difficult to predict, but Tyrone Tracy Jr. gave fantasy managers a reason to reconsider him after a productive performance last week.
Tracy scored 18.5 fantasy points, including a receiving touchdown, taking advantage of an opportunity in a backfield that hasn't offered much clarity. Cam Skattebo did not record a carry in the previous game, opening the door for Tracy to make an impact.
The challenge is determining whether that workload will continue against the Houston Texans. Tracy's role has been inconsistent, and last week's performance doesn't guarantee he'll receive the same opportunities again. Still, his involvement as a receiver gives him another way to contribute in PPR leagues, particularly if the Giants need to lean on their passing game.
Tracy has shown flashes of talent over the past three seasons, and his latest outing was a reminder of the fantasy potential he can offer when given the opportunity. Managers should monitor the Giants' backfield plans before kickoff, but Tracy could be worth the gamble if he remains positioned for meaningful touches.