Jahmyr Gibbs leads Hayden Winks’ Week 5 running back rankings with a projected 132.5 total yards, topping all other backs in expected production. Gibbs has already amassed 105.1 half PPR points through four weeks, placing him as the RB14 all-time in that metric. His consistent usage this season makes him the RB1 on RB1 overall usage, with an expectation of more than 20 half PPR points each week, according to Winks' latest analysis.
Following closely is Bijan Robinson, projected for 122.5 total yards against Baltimore. Robinson has demonstrated a strong recent scoring trend, posting over 25 half PPR points in seven of his last ten games. In 14 games with quarterback Michael Penix Jr. dating back to late 2024, Robinson averages 22.9 half PPR points with 5.1 targets per game. Monday Night Football showcased his rushing ability as the Falcons' offensive line dominated, allowing Robinson to finish as the RB5 overall. Despite facing a solid Ravens defense, Baltimore has allowed notable fantasy performances from backs like Tony Pollard and Jonathan Taylor. The Falcons are projected to score 23.5 points in their Week 5 matchup, which Winks identifies as their highest so far this year.
Jonathan Taylor holds the third spot with 108.5 projected total yards for his upcoming game at Pittsburgh. His 2026 output closely mirrors last year's, with a slight dip of 2.2 half PPR points per game but an increase of 0.7 expected points based on his role. Despite a career-low 4.1 yards per carry, Taylor’s increased targets per game help maintain his value. The Colts’ offense, however, faces limitations without a strong downfield threat. Pittsburgh’s defense, though featuring prominent linemen, has been vulnerable to fantasy running backs this season. The Colts are projected to score 21 points in the matchup.
Kyren Williams ranks fourth with a projection of 94.5 total yards against Buffalo. Williams has taken on a larger role this year, especially compared to last season, often substituting for Blake Corum in key moments. Last week, he caught 10 receptions and posted a career-high 28 expected half PPR points, the RB1 overall number for that week. The Rams and Bills game has a combined projected total of 54.5 points. Buffalo’s defensive tackles have impressed, but their secondary has shown weaknesses, allowing solid fantasy performances to backs like Rhamondre Stevenson and Jahmyr Gibbs.
James Cook III is fifth with an 89.5 total yard projection against the Rams. Cook’s numbers have remained steady year-over-year, averaging just under 16 half PPR points per game. While his reception numbers are modest, his workload on the ground remains significant, with 17.5 carries and 105 rushing yards per game. The Bills, who are projected for 25.75 points in this Monday Night Football contest, face a Rams defense that has limited fantasy running backs effectively this season. Only Christian McCaffrey has surpassed 55 total yards against them.
Chase Brown appears sixth with a projection of 64.5 total yards at Miami. After facing some of the toughest defenses against fantasy running backs this season, Brown’s numbers have been modest. His 5.3 receptions per game help maintain his value, but he has yet to break out against higher-tier opponents. Coming up, the Bengals are expected to run more against the Dolphins due to game script and wide receiver injuries. Miami has allowed multiple top-five fantasy running back finishes this season. The Bengals are projected for 24.75 points in that game.
Javonte Williams rounds out the top seven with a 92.5 total yard projection against Tampa Bay. Williams has quietly emerged as an effective fantasy option, ranking as the RB7 on RB6 usage overall. His consistent role has made him a valuable pick in drafts, often available early in Round 4 according to Winks' rankings.
These projections come from Hayden Winks’ weekly Blueprint column, which includes detailed film notes and extensive data charts. Winks advises checking his rankings regularly as updates continue leading up to game day Sunday. His full positional rankings are available through Yahoo Sports.
According to Yahoo Sports.
