As the 2026 NFL season kicked off on September 13, the fantasy football world was reminded once again that the running back position is both the most critical and the most unpredictable in our game. Week 1 delivered a masterclass in why we should never overlook certain backs, as several underappreciated talents exploded onto the scene. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, these performances could reshape your fantasy roster for weeks to come.
David Montgomery Proves Doubters Wrong in Houston Debut
The Houston Texans made a bold move trading for David Montgomery, and he wasted no time showing why he's the centerpiece of their backfield. Montgomery racked up 20 carries for 79 yards and three total touchdowns, amassing 27.4 fantasy points. Despite being drafted as an RB2 or even RB3 in many leagues, he looked like a top-three fantasy back in Week 1. While Woody Marks saw some passing-down work, Montgomery dominated early downs and even caught three passes for 19 yards and a score. With a favorable schedule ahead against Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Dallas, and Tennessee, Montgomery could be a league-winner. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, his rest-of-season outlook is incredibly bright.
Chuba Hubbard Leads Panthers' Committee, Jonathon Brooks Shows Flash
The Carolina Panthers' backfield was shrouded in uncertainty, but Chuba Hubbard emerged as the clear leader in Week 1. Hubbard out-snapped Jonathon Brooks 25-6 in the first half and finished with 87 total yards and two touchdowns for 22.2 fantasy points. Brooks, returning from knee surgery, showed explosiveness with a 48-yard catch-and-run but remains a risky flex option. Hubbard, on the other hand, is a safe RB2/3 with RB1 upside, especially with upcoming matchups against Atlanta and Cleveland. The Panthers' offensive shootout with the Bears may have inflated numbers, but Hubbard's role is undeniable.
Steelers' Backfield Split Leaves Fantasy Managers Frustrated
In Pittsburgh, the duo of Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle produced a lackluster fantasy output. Warren saw 10 carries and five receptions for 73 yards, while Dowdle managed just 21 total yards on 10 touches. Despite Warren's fumble, Mike McCarthy stuck with him, signaling a frustrating timeshare. With Aaron Rodgers at 42, the offense may struggle, but Rodgers' quick passes could still benefit Warren in PPR formats. As it stands, both are volatile flex plays, with Warren having a safer floor.
Bhayshul Tuten Takes Lead Role for Jaguars, But Schedule Looms
With Travis Etienne Jr. gone, Bhayshul Tuten was expected to lead the Jacksonville backfield, and he did just that in Week 1 with 16 touches for 88 yards. However, Chris Rodriguez Jr. split snaps evenly, and Ameer Abdullah was also involved. The Jaguars' upcoming schedule is brutal, with games against Denver, New England, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, and Houston. Tuten is an RB3/flex in PPR, while Rodriguez is a touchdown-dependent flex. The Jaguars' deep receiver room may limit passing work for both backs, so temper expectations.
Bucky Irving Shines as Buccaneers' Lead Back
Bucky Irving silenced critics with a stellar Week 1 performance: 15 touches, 93 total yards, and a touchdown for 16.8 fantasy points. He out-touched Kenneth Gainwell 15-6 and was heavily involved in the passing game, proving he's still the RB1 in Tampa Bay. With a matchup against Cleveland next, Irving is a solid RB2 in PPR formats. As highlighted on Vulius, his ability to stay involved even when trailing bodes well for his fantasy value.
Travis Etienne Jr.'s Saints Debut Raises Concerns
Despite signing a four-year, $48 million contract, Travis Etienne Jr. found himself in a near-even split with Kendre Miller in Week 1. Etienne salvaged his day with seven receptions for 78 yards, but Miller vultured a red-zone touchdown. The Saints' offensive line struggled, and Tyler Shough's slow start didn't help. Etienne's passing-game usage provides a solid floor, but touchdowns may be hard to come by. With a tough early schedule, patience is key, but Etienne remains an RB2/3 with upside. Don't panic yet.
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