Fantasy football managers who may not have the stomach – or the self-discipline – to employ the Zero RB strategy in drafts may consider pivoting to a slightly less-extreme version: the Hero RB strategy.
It’s a little more traditional approach to roster-building, but it does lean heavily on the same concepts that form the basis of the Zero RB method.
But to implement it, you first must understand it. So let’s examine the difference between the two strategies and how fantasy managers can set up their draft plan to embrace the Hero RB from the start … or adopt it on the fly.
2025 POSITION RANKINGS: QB | RB | WR | TE | K | D/ST | Overall
What is the Hero RB strategy?
The concept both Zero RB and Hero RB approaches share is that it’s extremely difficult for running backs to stay healthy and productive over the course of a full NFL season. Because many will suffer injuries or see their workloads decrease, there is ample opportunity for other, less-heralded running backs to step into those leading roles.
But while the Zero RB strategy avoids paying the full draft-day price for any starting running back, the Hero version makes an exception for one star player – typically in the first round – and then avoids the position until late in the draft.
Why should you use the Hero RB strategy?
The main reason to go Hero over Zero is when the value of drafting one of the top running backs is just too high.
For some, having an early first-round pick is enough to take one of the consensus top three (or four) running backs on this year’s board. They all figure to be major contributors both rushing and receiving, and in fantasy formats that award points for receptions, they might just be too valuable to pass up.
There’s certainly risk in taking a Hero RB, but he can also pave the way to a league championship.
Just remember to exercise excruciating patience before drafting another running back. And be prepared to work the waiver wire every week to find your No. 2.
What is a Hero RB?
Although some may define it differently, the qualities we’re using here to determine who qualifies as a Hero RB are these:
Lead back in an above-average offense
Ability to dominate rushing and receiving
Track record of good health
Who are the Hero RBs in 2025?
Pretty simple. But only a select few are worthy of such a high honor this season.
Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons
Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles
Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions
That’s it. That’s the list.
Sure, Ashton Jeanty of the Las Vegas Raiders has the upside to belong in that top group, but he doesn’t yet have any NFL experience. Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens clearly checks two of the three boxes, but he’s an afterthought in the passing game. Health is a question for De’Von Achane of the Miami Dolphins and Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers.
Maybe you’ll have an opportunity to grab one of those other top backs at a discount. If so, feel free to modify the Hero RB approach to fit your situation. Some people prefer a modified Hero RB approach by drafting a no-doubt starting running back in the first two rounds and then waiting another five or six rounds before taking another.
Just remember, you’re not following the Zero/Hero RB strategy if you’re not building the foundation of your roster on safer stud receivers.