10 PPR Running Backs to Target in Your 2017 Fantasy Football Draft

Christian McCaffrey, Carolina Panthers

Standard Running Back Rank: 15
PPR Running Back Rank: 12
Average Draft Position (PPR): 4.01 (RB16)

The Carolina Panthers spent a top-10 draft pick on Christian McCaffrey because of his elite speed and his ability to impact the game not only at running back but also as a slot receiver, wide receiver, and kick returner.

At Stanford, he dominated from each of those positions on the field. Among running backs in the 2017 NFL Draft, McCaffrey was first in reception market share, first in receiving yards market share, and second in yards per game as a college player. He caught 99 passes for over 1,200 yards in his three seasons at Stanford; he saw enough volume as a receiver in the Pac-12 for scouts and fantasy players alike to have confidence in his raw skills.

If there's any hesitation on the part of fantasy players, it's about the lack of clarity surrounding his role in the offense, given Jonathan Stewart's presence and the fact that Cam Newton's running ability could lead to more tucking and running, and fewer check-downs for McCaffrey to benefit from.

It's warranted, too. Last season, Panthers running backs caught a total of just 44 passes, and 14 NFL teams had one player finish with at least that many receptions in 2016.

Panthers head coach Ron Rivera had some encouraging words after McCaffrey's first official practice with the team this week, saying that the team is "working a lot of different things, different ways to get the ball in his hands. The screen pass obviously is one of them. It's a weapon, it's a tool we've used in the past. But we do know it's something he runs very well."

McCaffrey is the total package, so if you're willing to take a risk on the Panthers tailoring their offense to suit his skills, he's well worth grabbing ahead of his current ADP.