Last Updated on July 22, 2026 2:35 pm by André Lemos | Published: July 15, 2026

The topic of running back handcuffs is a staple in offseason fantasy football discussions. The value of different backup ball-carriers varies greatly from one backfield to another. Whether it be week-to-week start-ability due to relatively high usage or the fragility of the lead back, second-string backs can potentially be spot-starts or have league-winning upside should they get the keys to the backfield.

Of course, handcuffs hold the most value to the managers with the corresponding lead back. Sometimes, fantasy GMs that draft top-end RB talents will reach above ADP to secure the handcuff to that back so they can (likely) set and forget one of their starting RB slots. Some managers stash a few handcuffs as dart throws in the hopes that one becomes a starting-caliber back or a trade piece that moves the needle for the person with the lead backs.

There is still a long time between now and start of the season and anything can happen. At this moment, some RB handcuffs hold more value than others, so here’s some backfields that you should look to snag if given the appropriate opportunity in 2026 redraft leagues.

Honorable Mention: Seattle Seahawks – Jadarian Price and Emanuel Sanders (with maybe Zach Charbonnet)

The Seahawks were a top-three run-heavy team last season despite a mediocre run-blocking o-line.  They were great pass-blocking and that allowed Sam Darnold to hang in the pocket, but this was not a great running team, despite the volume.  They were third in attempts, but 25th in yards-per-rush and now with two new names running the ball, everything is up for grabs.  Don’t look for SEA to pivot now after winning the Super Bowl and with a great defense behind, SEA should continue to run the ball in the second half.  While the rookie might be getting all the hype and is going as a top-25 RB, he’s an old-school back who won’t be involved in the passing game.  Price isn’t the RB I would target in this offense and even if Charbonnet returns, Sanders at draft day price of the RB55, the upside is off the charts.  It’s never great when three RBs are fighting for the same touches, but this offense should be able to support two and if Price is slow out of the gates and/or Charbonnet stumbles, Sanders is going to inherit a ton of touches.

#5: Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle – Pittsburgh Steelers

The PIT duo last season combined for the 8th most FPPG and swapped out Kenneth Gainwell for Rico Dowdle.  Gainwell was the receiving back last season while Warren took the carries and with Dowdle in town, it could swap again.  PIT was the best o-line for pass-blocking last season and are a middle of the pack for running.  They weren’t exactly a run-heavy unit, finishing 28th in attempts, but look for the offense to take off this season.  New HC Mike McCarthy likes to run the ball, Warren and Dowdle should operate in a timeshare, but there should be enough fantasy points to go around.  The ceiling isn’t sky-high while both are healthy, but Warren was the RB16 last season and Dowdle had a couple weeks as the best RB in fantasy.  They are being drafted pretty close to each other and honestly there is no way of knowing which will finish higher.  Dowdle has more power and that’s always a good way to lean, but the PIT offense targeted the RBs at the second-highest rate last season.  Even if Dowdle mostly eats on the ground,  in Weeks 5-18, Dowdle averaged 18.6 touches and 87.7 total yards as the RB10 in fantasy points per game.  If we want to simplify it, Warren has the high floor and Dowdle has the ceiling.

#4: TreVeyeon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson – New England Patriots

Want to get access to Our Draft Guide and continue the read this article? You’ll need to have a SportsEthos NFL FantasyPass, All-Sport Pass or a Ethos 360 membership. Click here to learn more and sign up!
Premium Access Required

  Join our Discord:  Click Here to Join!

• About the Author
• Latest Posts

Jon Mosales

I have been crazy about fantasy sports even before I knew what it was.  Some people use stats as a tool and some use the eye test.  I like to believe I have the perfect blend of both and that extra special spider sense that separates me from the herd.  I have been nominated for one FSWA Football Article of the Year award and am just getting started.  My only fear is that I will become too good at fantasy football and have to retire early like Michael Jordan. You won’t see me leave my house without at least one of my (four) dogs and if you are lucky enough, you will catch me cruising top-down with all four in tow.

• Fantasy Football 2026: Players Who Could Finish Top 10 at Their Position
• The Seven Fantasy Football GMs You Meet in Hell
• Fantasy Football Bold Predictions 2026: One Bold Prediction for Every NFL Team