NFL Fantasy Football 2025: Expert Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em Guide for Running Backs in Week 4
As Week 4 of the 2025 NFL season approaches, fantasy football managers face crucial decisions on which running backs to start, sit, or stash. With injuries shaking up backfield roles and new rookie talents emerging, this week could mark a turning point in the season’s fantasy landscape.
Must-Start Running Backs for Week 4
Omarion Hampton (Los Angeles Chargers) stepped up significantly after Najee Harris’s season-ending Achilles injury. He played 86% of the offensive snaps in Week 3 and handled 14 of the team’s 16 rushing attempts. Now facing the New York Giants, whose defense has allowed opponents to exceed expected rushing yards by a league-high 43.8%, Hampton is poised for another big outing. The Giants also rank 10th in allowing explosive runs (over 10 yards), making Hampton a strong start candidate this week.
Jordan Mason (Minnesota Vikings) impressed in his recent start, boasting a 55% success rate as a rusher — best among starting backs in the league. His efficiency makes him a coveted fantasy option regardless of matchup, especially as he continues to contribute significantly to his team’s ground game.
Dameon Pierce (Houston Texans) and Breece Hall (New York Jets) also offer high upside. Hall, as the Jets’ lead rusher and an active part of the passing game, benefits from a Miami Dolphins defense that ranks eighth-worst in rushing yards allowed to backs and is susceptible to explosive runs. Hall’s status could be further enhanced if quarterback Justin Fields returns, adding dynamic elements to the Jets’ offense.
Rising Rookie Running Backs to Consider
Maxwell Skattebo (New York Giants) turned heads with 121 total yards and a touchdown on 18 touches against the Kansas City Chiefs. However, his long-term outlook depends on the health of Tyrone Tracy Jr., who is currently injured but expected to return. The Giants’ introduction of rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart may affect Skattebo’s target share, so while he’s a promising flex or RB2 option, caution is advised.
Keke Jeanty (Chicago Bears)</strong showed signs of breaking out in Week 3 despite a high percentage of carries being tackled at or behind the line of scrimmage earlier in the season. Facing a Bears defense that ranks near the bottom in rush yards allowed and explosive runs conceded this year, Week 4 presents an ideal opportunity for Jeanty to capitalize and provide fantasy value.
Players to Sit or Approach with Caution
David Montgomery (Detroit Lions)</strong faces a daunting matchup against the Cleveland Browns defense, which leads the league in limiting rushing yards per carry to just 2.3. Despite Montgomery's solid workload, this unfavorable matchup suggests a potential decrease in fantasy production.
James Conner (Arizona Cardinals)</strong is sidelined with a season-ending injury, elevating Elijah Benson to lead back duties. Benson is averaging about 12.5% target share and should see approximately 20 touches, but his role still carries some uncertainty especially with the new offensive dynamics. Though not a guaranteed must-start, Benson is a viable RB2 or flex play, particularly against Seattle’s defense, which has allowed the most targets and receiving yards to running backs.
Additional Insights and Strategic Implications
The Week 4 slate may mark the arrival of the 2025 rookie running back class as impactful fantasy contributors. Workloads are trending upward for young backs like Hampton and Skattebo. Meanwhile, managers should monitor developments such as injuries, snap counts, and evolving team strategies to maximize their lineups.
Matchups remain key in fantasy decisions. Teams like the Giants, Dolphins, and Bears present exploitable rushing defenses, boosting the fantasy value of their opponents’ backs. Conversely, backs facing elite run-stopping defenses, like Montgomery against the Browns, warrant caution.
Overall, Week 4 presents enticing opportunities especially for rookie backs thrust into lead roles, while established veterans in tough matchups could see a dip. Fantasy managers should stay updated on injury reports, practice statuses, and team announcements ahead of lineup locks.
Note: All player usage rates, target shares, and matchup data are based on the latest analyses from NFL experts and statistics from the 2025 season through Week 3.