NFL Fantasy 2025: Week 6 Running Backs – Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em

Week 6 of the 2025 NFL season brings plenty of intrigue for fantasy football managers, especially at the running back position. With injuries, matchups, and offensive schematics constantly shifting, knowing which backs to start and which to bench can make the difference between a dominating week and a frustrating one. Here’s a breakdown of the key running backs for your Week 6 fantasy lineups.

Start ‘Em

1. Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers

McCaffrey remains one of the most reliable dual-threat backs in the league. Against a middling defense, he’s likely to see 20+ touches, with a healthy dose of targets in the passing game. PPR managers especially should start him with confidence.

2. Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts

Taylor has regained his form after early-season struggles. The Colts face a run-friendly defense this week, making Taylor a high-floor and high-ceiling option. Expect him to handle the bulk of the carries, especially in the red zone.

3. Breece Hall, New York Jets

With Jets quarterback Jaxson Dart continuing to impress, Hall’s volume in the passing game remains critical. Hall is projected for a touchdown or two, and his workload makes him a lock for most fantasy formats.

4. Aaron Jones, Green Bay Packers

Jones faces a defense that struggles against versatile backs who can catch passes out of the backfield. He’s expected to lead the Packers in rushing attempts and receptions, giving him a strong weekly floor.

5. Saquon Barkley, New York Giants

Despite his team’s offensive inconsistencies, Barkley remains the primary offensive weapon. A soft matchup in Week 6 should translate to heavy volume and goal-line opportunities, making him a top start in standard and PPR formats.

Sit ‘Em

1. Miles Sanders, Philadelphia Eagles

Sanders has seen a decrease in touches with the Eagles spreading the ball to multiple options. Week 6 is a tough matchup against a strong run defense, so fantasy managers should consider benching him if other options are available.

2. Dalvin Cook, Minnesota Vikings

Cook’s workload has been limited due to lingering minor injuries, and the Vikings’ pass-heavy approach has reduced his overall value. Week 6’s defensive matchup further limits his upside, making him a risky start.

3. Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns

Chubb remains a talented rusher, but the Browns’ commitment to splitting carries and a tough Week 6 matchup lowers his fantasy ceiling. Managers with better options should sit him this week.

4. David Montgomery, Detroit Lions

Montgomery faces a defense that excels at stuffing the run and limiting short-yardage plays. His touches could be inconsistent, making him a volatile play in fantasy.

5. Javonte Williams, Denver Broncos

Williams’ workload is unpredictable behind a shared backfield, and the Broncos’ offensive line struggles could limit his rushing efficiency. Expect a lower ceiling than usual, warranting caution.

Waiver Wire Watch

Week 6 presents opportunities to exploit injuries and backfield committees:

• Elijah Mitchell, San Francisco 49ers – Could see additional carries if McCaffrey is limited.
• Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Stepping into a featured role due to injuries.
• Zonovan Knight, New York Jets – Potential for a bump in workload with injuries or matchup-specific rotations.

Strategy Tips for Week 6

1. Focus on volume over talent: Even elite backs can struggle if touches are limited. Target those with high snap counts and goal-line opportunities.
2. Monitor injuries closely: Late-week news could elevate secondary backs into starting roles.
3. Consider matchups: Defenses weak against the run or pass-catching backs are ideal starts, while tough run-stopping units warrant caution.
4. PPR vs. Standard: Players involved heavily in the passing game gain extra value in PPR formats; adjust your lineups accordingly.

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