This article lays out the top 10 running back rankings in the league, considering their skill sets, production, and impact on their respective teams.
The running back position has long been a centerpiece of NFL offenses, with talented ball carriers leaving a lasting impact on the game’s history. In the modern NFL however, the league has moved to a more pass-first mentality, devaluing the position and leading towards more versatile backs.
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That being said here are my running back rankings for the upcoming year.
Top 10 NFL Running Back Rankings
1. Christian McCaffrey (49ers):
Dubbed “CMC,” Christian McCaffrey is the epitome of a dual-threat running back. His exceptional skills as a runner and receiver make him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses. With the ability to break tackles and create big plays, McCaffrey is the blueprint for a modern RB in today’s game.
2 Nick Chubb (Cleveland Browns):
A powerful and dynamic runner, Nick Chubb has established himself as one of the league’s premier ball carriers. His pure rushing ability is the best in the league and the Browns take advantage of his skillset. With a combination of strength, balance, and vision, Chubb consistently racks up impressive yardage for the Browns.
3. Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans):
The “King” of the ground game, Derrick Henry is a dominant force for the Titans. With his rare combination of size, speed, and agility, Henry has defined the term explosive every time he takes a snap, often stiff-arming the competition on his way to big yardage gains.
4. Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers):
Austin Ekeler‘s versatility as a runner and receiver makes him an invaluable weapon for the Chargers offense. The leader in total touchdowns the past two seasons, he’s a great dual-threat player for the Chargers and a great safety blanket for Justin Herbert. His elusiveness and ability to create big plays in space make him a significant threat on every snap.
5. Saquon Barkley (New York Giants):
Despite battling injuries, Saquon Barkley‘s explosiveness and ability to make defenders miss in the open field remain undeniable. When healthy, Barkley is a game-changer for the Giants, which we saw on the field last season for the Giants. With a new contract in place, Saquon should continue to thrive under Brian Daboll.
6. Jonathan Taylor (Indianapolis Colts):
In just a few seasons, Jonathan Taylor has already established himself as one of the league’s premier young running backs. His speed and vision make him a dynamic threat for the Colts. After a down year with Matt Ryan at the helm, he’s still one of the best young running backs, and the revitalization of the offense under Richardson should be fun to watch.
7. Aaron Jones (Green Bay Packers):
With his explosive burst and breakaway speed, Aaron Jones is a game-changer for the Packers. His ability to create big plays in both the running and passing games adds an extra dimension to Green Bay’s offense. The offense as a whole will lean on him and AJ Dillon to create more opportunities to score in the run game now that Aaron Rodgers is gone.
8. Dalvin Cook (Free Agent):
Dalvin Cook‘s elusive running style and ability to break tackles made him a standout ball carrier for the Vikings. When at his best, Cook is a force to be reckoned with. The only concern with him is his health and ability to play a full season. The Jets have placed him high on their preseason wishlist.
9. Joe Mixon (Cincinnati Bengals):
Joe Mixon‘s powerful running and ability to pick up tough yards have made him a key piece of the Bengals’ offense. With his physical running style, Mixon is a tough challenge for any defense.
10. Josh Jacobs (Las Vegas Raiders):
Rounding out the top 10, Josh Jacobs brings a combination of power and finesse to the Raiders’ ground game. His ability to break tackles and find the end zone makes him a valuable asset for Las Vegas. His breakout year last season is only the beginning for this young back.