Planning your fantasy football draft? Here are five running backs who are automatic first-round picks in 2023, backed by consistent performance and key statistics:

1. Christian McCaffrey (Carolina Panthers)

• Consensus #1 overall pick
• Elite dual-threat: Projects for 1,000+ rushing and receiving yards
• Scored 5 TDs in just 3 games in 2020
• Maintains top value even with quarterback change

2. Dalvin Cook (Minnesota Vikings)

• 1,557 rushing yards and 16 TDs in 14 games last season
• Added 361 receiving yards
• Consistent top-5 draft selection
• Thrives despite sharing with strong receiving corps

3. Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans)

• Led NFL in rushing attempts, yards, and TDs last two years
• 2,000+ rushing yards on 378 carries in 2020
• Guaranteed 20+ carries per game
• Clear workhorse back in run-heavy offense

4. Alvin Kamara (New Orleans Saints)

• Dual-threat: Nearly 1,000 rushing/750 receiving yards
• Career-high 21 total touchdowns last season
• Locked-in offensive role regardless of QB
• Slight concern with QB transition

5. Nick Chubb (Cleveland Browns)

• 1,000+ yards and 12 TDs in just 12 games
• Consistently averages 5+ yards per carry
• Elite run-blocking offensive line
• Shares snaps with Kareem Hunt but maintains production

These players offer consistent production and reliable fantasy points, making them worth your first-round draft capital regardless of league format or scoring system.

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