Week 9 Fantasy Football: Four Running Backs You Can't Afford to Bench

With Week 9 of the fantasy football season upon us, managers are finalizing their lineups. The running back position, often the most critical, presents unique challenges this week due to injuries, bye weeks, and evolving backfield situations. To help navigate these complexities, here are four running backs who should be locked into starting spots.

Jonah Coleman, Denver Broncos

Jonah Coleman has only one full game as Denver's lead back, so skepticism is natural, especially with head coach Sean Payton's unpredictable history of one-week wonders. However, Coleman appears to be different. A talented runner projected to seize the starting job around midseason, he has outperformed JK Dobbins, who has struggled. Facing the Carolina Panthers, Coleman is a must-start.

Quinshon Judkins, Cleveland Browns

Quinshon Judkins has been a fringe starter for much of the season, but that changes this week against the New Orleans Saints, who allow the most fantasy points to running backs. Despite a 25-yard dud last week against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Judkins is poised for a big game.

Tyler Allgeier, Arizona Cardinals

Fantasy managers might hesitate to start Tyler Allgeier on the road against the Seattle Seahawks, but the matchup is actually favorable. The Seahawks just surrendered a huge week to D'Andre Swift. As long as Jeremiyah Love and Bam Knight remain sidelined, Allgeier is a solid play.

Woody Marks, Houston Texans

Woody Marks returns from a bye week and should be inserted into lineups against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Texans are expected to win comfortably and lean heavily on the run in the second half. With David Montgomery's status uncertain, Marks is a slam dunk if Montgomery sits, but he's worth starting even if Montgomery plays.

Key Analysis

These four running backs offer a mix of volume and favorable matchups that make them attractive starts in Week 9. Coleman and Judkins have clear paths to heavy workloads, while Allgeier and Marks benefit from injuries and game scripts. Fantasy managers should not overthink these decisions and lock them in.