Week 17 Fantasy Football Busts: Key Running Backs to Bench for Your Championship

Fantasy football championships are won in Week 17. Setting the right lineup is critical. Several high-profile running backs pose major risks this week. Managers must avoid these potential busts to secure their title.

According to analysis from ESPN and NFL.com, matchups and backfield chaos are creating dangerous situations. Trusting the wrong player now could sink an entire season’s effort.

Breece Hall and Josh Jacobs Highlight Risky Start List

New York Jets running back Breece Hall is a must-bench. The entire Jets offense is struggling to move the ball. The New England Patriots defense, their Week 17 opponent, allows the third-fewest fantasy points to running backs.

Green Bay’s Josh Jacobs is another major concern. Backup Emanuel Wilson outperformed him last week. Jacobs is dealing with a knee injury and a recent fumble, creating an unreliable fantasy floor.

Backfield Committees Create Unplayable Situations

The Houston Texans backfield is a mess to avoid. Woody Marks may return from injury this week. He would join Nick Chubb and Jawhar Jordan in a three-way committee against the Chargers’ tough run defense.

In Carolina, Rico Dowdle is stuck in a split with Chuba Hubbard. The Seattle Seahawks present a bad matchup, allowing the eighth-fewest points to the position. Neither Panther runner offers a safe ceiling.

New Orleans Saints running back Audric Estime is unstartable. The offense relies heavily on Taysom Hill as a rusher and receiver. Estime’s limited role provides almost no fantasy value for championship week.

Navigating your Week 17 fantasy football lineup requires tough sits. Benching these high-risk running backs is essential for championship success. Prioritize safer options with clearer paths to production.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Why is Breece Hall a sit despite his talent?

The Jets offense is one of the league’s worst. Their Week 17 matchup against the Patriots is terrible for running backs. Hall lacks both a safe floor and a reliable ceiling in this situation.

Is Josh Jacobs injured heading into Week 17?

Yes, Jacobs has been managing a knee injury for weeks. His practice participation will be key to monitor. Even if active, his workload and efficiency are serious concerns for fantasy managers.

Should I start any Houston Texans running back?

It is not recommended. The backfield is crowded with Chubb, Jordan, and a possibly returning Marks. Their matchup against the Chargers’ stout run defense is also very unfavorable.

What is the main risk with Rico Dowdle?

Dowdle does not have a clear lead role. He splits work with Chuba Hubbard in a mediocre offense. The tough matchup against Seattle further limits his potential.

Why is Audric Estime not a viable fantasy play?

Taysom Hill dominates Saints backfield touches, especially near the goal line. Estime operates as a change-of-pace back with a very low weekly touch count.