Week 3: Top Exempt Wire Running Backs

We’re now in week 3, taking a look at the standout running backs available on the exemption wire. Some rookies have really stepped up, offering a glimpse into what might be in store if they keep getting opportunities.

Let’s evaluate the performers from Week 2. This is a chance to sift through the exemption wire ahead of week three. Remember, we’re focusing on players who are rostered in about 60% or less of Yahoo leagues.

Cam Skattebo, RB, Giants (59%)

Next 3 Matchups – KC, LAC, @NO

In Week 2, Skattebo emerged as the Giants’ lead back, increasing his snaps from 8 in Week 1 to 35 in Week 2, with a snap rate of 51% according to PFF. He racked up 11 carries for 45 yards and even found the end zone, plus he made 3 catches on 3 targets for another 14 yards.

On the other hand, Tyrone Tracy managed just five carries for 15 yards but caught 5 passes for 36 yards while primarily playing on passing downs. Skattebo is perhaps a better fit for standard and half PPR leagues, and if he can keep outpacing Tracy, he should maintain a solid fantasy presence.

Bhayshul Tuten, RB, Jaguars (55%)

Next 3 Matchups – HOU, @SF, KC

With the Jaguars trading Tank Bigsby to the Eagles, many hoped rookie Bhayshul Tuten would see an uptick in touches. While Travis Etienne remains the lead back, Tuten did see an increase in snaps. Though he had a modest 18 snaps, he made the most of them with 10 touches, rushing for 42 yards on 8 carries and catching 2 targets for 32 yards, scoring a touchdown in the process.

Etienne played well enough to limit Tuten’s touches, but Tuten has shown promise early in his career. If he continues to improve, he could soon be worth a start in fantasy lineups.

Trey Benson, RB, Cardinals (52%)

Next 3 Matchups – @SF, SEA, TEN

Benson had a productive outing, getting all the snaps during a two-minute drill. He’s currently backing up James Conner on early downs. Although Conner had more snaps overall, with 30 to Benson’s 25, Benson still managed 7 touches compared to Conner’s 11. He caught 4 of 6 targets for 30 yards and rushed for another 14 yards on 3 carries. He seems to have a more explosive edge than Conner, and it’ll be interesting to see if he starts getting more involved as the season progresses.

Here are some players who are rostered over 60%, but might still be useful in smaller leagues.

Quinshon Judkins, RB, Browns (62%)

Next 3 Matchups – GB, @DET, MIN

In his debut, the second-round rookie led Cleveland in both rush attempts and rushing yards. Although he was on the field for limited time, he made an impact with 10 carries for 61 yards and caught 3 targets for 6 yards. While Jerome Ford got more work in the rushing game, if the games stay competitive, Judkins could prove to be a valuable fantasy asset.

Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, Patriots (67%)

Next 3 Matchups – PIT, CAR, @BUF

Josh McDaniels aimed to increase the run game but opted for Rhamondre Stevenson rather than rookie Trevion Henderson. Facing a weak Dolphins defense, Stevenson put up 142 yards on 16 touches, which included a notable 55-yard catch. While he didn’t get into the end zone, he showed enough potential to continue being relevant in the fantasy landscape.