Ty Chandler

Ty Chandler is set to kick off the 2024 fantasy football season as the second-string running back for the Minnesota Vikings, making him a promising choice for fantasy football enthusiasts seeking a hidden gem in the later rounds across all leagues. Aaron Jones will commence the season as the primary rusher in Minnesota; however, the 29-year-old grappled with fitness issues during the previous season while playing for the Packers. Chandler commenced the last season in a supporting role behind Alexander Mattison, but as the season progressed, Chandler emerged as the most impressive running back in Minnesota. Concluding the year with six games where he recorded double-digit carries, Chandler boasted an average of 12.9 PPR points in those matchups.

Chandler's role in the Vikings' backfield is expected to be significant, even if he isn't the starter. In Weeks 15-18 of the 2023 season, he played at least 53% of the snaps in every game, averaging 15.3 touches and 81.8 total yards. While his per-touch efficiency was not stellar, his overall performance was promising. Among 49 qualifying backs, Chandler ranked 47th last season in missed tackles forced per attempt and yards after contact per attempt. Despite these numbers, he had hope entering this offseason that he had done enough in 2023 to have a shot at the starter's role, but sadly, that isn't in the cards for next season.

Minnesota head coach Kevin O'Connell praised Chandler for his mid-season 2023 breakout campaign before signing free agent running back Aaron Jones to ostensibly handle 1A backfield duties. O'Connell made clear that “every-down consistency” is all that keeps Chandler from a full-time starting role, and Chandler is far closer to meeting O'Connell’s requirements than some think. He is guaranteed to handle a featured backup role in a worst-case scenario, making him a must-draft role player in 2024. Among 64 NFL running backs with at least 200 offensive snaps, Chandler’s 76.3 PFF offense grade ties for 19th, while Jones’ 80.9 PFF offense grade ties for ninth.

Chandler holds his own as a disciplined rusher and notably beats Jones out in most receiving metrics, possessing sure hands and explosive post-catch talents. Jones remains a superior rusher at age 29, but Chandler is an extremely talented player already beloved by the coaching staff. He should handle a fantasy-friendly role 1B role with a chance to usurp Jones by the season’s end. Chandler is a must-draft role player in 2024, and his potential to evolve into the more valuable running back for the Vikings, particularly at a more affordable price tag, makes him an enticing fantasy football prospect.

Updated 07/30/2024