When it comes to fantasy football, volume is king when it pertains to running backs. No running backs fit that mold better than Christian McCaffrey and Breece Hall. Both running backs are the workhorses in their backfield, and their teams go only as far as their shoulders can carry them.
Drafting either of these players will cost you a pretty penny in your draft. McCaffrey is the consensus 1.01 of most drafts, while Hall’s average draft position (ADP) lands at fourth overall.
Let’s break down both players’ fantasy outlooks to determine who is better for your team.
2024 Fantasy Outlook For Christian McCaffrey
McCaffrey was a volume machine last year.
He had 272 rushing attempts and 83 receiving targets, landing 250 total touches for the previous season. McCaffrey ran for 5.4 yards per carry last season, the second-highest mark in the NFL, which resulted in 1,459 yards, the most in the league. He also produced the fourth-most rushing touchdowns (14) last year for the San Francisco 49ers.
McCaffrey was the fuel that made the offense go in San Francisco. TruMedia ranks McCaffrey as first overall in average rushing per first down, indicating that McCaffrey moved the chains and gave his team (and himself) more opportunities during the season.
The biggest issue fantasy managers face with McCaffrey is overuse. We should be concerned about the workload he handled last season and how it may pertain to this season. McCaffrey is already currently dealing with a strained calf in camp, which should have us on high alert for that 1.01 overall spot.
2024 Fantasy Outlook For Breece Hall
Hall was the entire New York Jets offense last season once Aaron Rodgers sustained his injuries.
With Zach Wilson leading the charge and the offense falling flat in the passing game, Hall still churned out 994 rushing yards, the 13th-best in the NFL. He was a workhorse running back who saw 299 touches last season, and his dual-threat ability helped him reach 1,585 total yards for the season.
From Week 5 to Week 18, Hall averaged over 29 touches and 100 yards per game. With Rodgers back under center, opposing defenses will not be able to crowd the box, allowing Hall to run through open lanes.
Hall’s most notable obstacle is the need for more opportunities due to Rodgers’ return. Under the future Hall of Famer’s guidance, the passing game should improve, which will limit Hall’s chances of dominating in fantasy football.
Who Should I Draft in 2024?
It would be best if you drafted McCaffrey whenever you get the chance. He is a superb talent with an excellent workload for fantasy purposes.
Neither player would be considered a slouch when it comes to the game itself. However, McCaffrey comes with a better offense, which helps us stick to our draft strategy of targeting good players on potent offenses.
There is a reason McCaffrey is first overall in consensus rankings. He is truly a game-changing, league-winning fantasy football player.