As we inch toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy values constantly on the move. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty value of Kareem Hunt.
Kareem Hunt’s Dynasty Outlook and Value
Among the 2023 free agent class, Hunt could be considered a strong name or a weak name, depending on your current perspective on him as a player. Regardless, Hunt is going to have a job in the NFL this season.
It feels like such a long time ago that Hunt burst onto the scene with an overall RB5 finish as a rookie. That was six years ago. Yet, somehow, Hunt will be just 28 years old this season. While 28 is quite old for a running back, his skill set is one that should enable him to play into his early 30s.
Ever since leaving Kansas City under less-than-ideal circumstances, Hunt has been mostly a satellite back. That’s served to limit the punishment he’s taken, which, along with him being primarily a receiving back, should allow him to extend his career.
Historically, receiving prowess has more staying power than rushing ability. All of this is to say Hunt could still have utility for another 2-3 years.
The primary concern with Hunt is his upside. For years, the allure with Hunt was his standalone low-RB2 value, with the belief that if Nick Chubb went down, Hunt would somewhat resemble the RB1 he was in Kansas City. During Hunt’s entire tenure in Cleveland, that simply wasn’t true.
MORE: 2023 Dynasty Rookie Rankings
From 2019-2021, Hunt averaged 13.5 fantasy points per game in 27 games with Chubb and 13.1 ppg in five games without him. Hunt was the same player, regardless.
You may be wondering why I left out 2022. That’s because Hunt’s play declined precipitously last season. Chubb and Hunt each played all 17 games. Yet, Hunt averaged just 7.5 ppg. He opened the season in his typical satellite role, but as the season progressed, the Browns reduced his workload considerably.
Over the first five weeks of the season, Hunt saw double-digit carries and at least two receptions in every game. By the second half of the season, he was carrying the ball only a handful of times per game and was consistently below a 40% snap share. Hunt’s final 13 carries of the season went for a mere 21 yards.
I mentioned earlier how Hunt’s usage and skill set suggests he can play another 2-3 years. Well, that’s if he isn’t just done. Hunt’s play over the second half of the 2022 season is very concerning.
Kareem Hunt’s Fantasy Ranking
Given his age and performance, I think Hunt is a bit overvalued in dynasty circles. I’m just not in the business of banking on a rebound from a running back at this age showing clear signs of decline.
We currently have Hunt at RB37, No. 119 overall in our latest dynasty Superflex rankings. Looking at the guys behind him, I get it, but that still feels too expensive.
At this point, it seems unlikely that the Browns will bring Hunt back. I also don’t expect any team to sign Hunt to be their RB1. At best, he’ll be part of a committee. Consider Hunt nothing more than a dynasty RB4 and someone to avoid in dynasty startup drafts.
