Bestball formats have reshaped the way fantasy enthusiasts build lineups, rewarding those who can pinpoint players with the highest weekly upside rather than those who merely deliver steady production.
The upside equation
When a running back is positioned to see a surge in touches because of injuries elsewhere, the potential payoff can dwarf the risk. That is precisely the calculus that makes TreVeyon Henderson an attractive target.
Henderson, who suits up for the New England Patriots, has the physical tools to break tackles and turn modest carries into big plays. In a bestball setting, his boom‑or‑bust profile fits the format’s emphasis on high‑ceiling contributors.
RJ Harvey of the Denver Broncos adds another dimension with his knack for catching passes out of the backfield. His ability to turn short routes into explosive gains makes him a complementary piece in a lineup that seeks both rushing and receiving upside.
Across the country, Keaton Mitchell of the Los Angeles Chargers has posted a career average of 6.3 yards per carry, a statistic that speaks to his explosiveness. Health setbacks have limited his workload, yet the upside remains compelling when the Chargers’ backfield opens up.
Nicholas Singleton, a rookie with the Tennessee Titans, is expected to inherit the lead‑back role as the team rebuilds. While his inexperience introduces uncertainty, the prospect of a high‑volume role in a run‑heavy offense makes him a worthwhile gamble.
Injuries to other backs can also elevate players like Rhamondre Stevenson, whose steady presence in New England provides a safety net for the Patriots. In bestball, where lineups are auto‑optimized, even a modest increase in touches can translate into outsized points.
Why risk matters
The beauty of bestball is that the algorithmic lineup builder will always slot the player who delivers the biggest score for that week. That means a single breakout performance can catapult a roster to the top of the leaderboard, making high‑upside assets indispensable.