Top 10 Running Backs in the NFL Right Now
Hey there, I’m Emily Johnson and I’m excited to present to you the top 10 running backs in the NFL right now. As a die-hard football fan and fantasy football enthusiast, I’ve done my fair share of research and analysis to bring you this list. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Curiosities and Interesting Information
- Did you know that the average career length of an NFL running back is only 2.57 years?
- The highest-paid running back in the NFL is Ezekiel Elliott, who signed a six-year, $90 million contract extension with the Dallas Cowboys in 2019.
- According to a recent survey, 67% of NFL fans believe that the running back position is still crucial to a team’s success.
The Top 10 Running Backs
- Christian McCaffrey – With his impressive combination of rushing and receiving skills, McCaffrey is a versatile and dynamic player who can make an impact on any game.
- Saquon Barkley – Despite suffering a high ankle sprain in 2019, Barkley is still considered one of the top running backs in the league due to his incredible athleticism and playmaking ability.
- Ezekiel Elliott – Elliott has proven himself to be one of the most consistent and reliable running backs in the NFL, with three Pro Bowl selections and two rushing title wins under his belt.
- Alvin Kamara – Kamara’s speed and agility make him a nightmare for opposing defenses, as he can break out for big gains both on the ground and through the air.
- Dalvin Cook – Despite a history of injuries, Cook has shown that he can be a dominant force on the field when healthy, with 1,135 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in the 2019 season.
- Derrick Henry – Henry’s size and power make him a unique threat on the field, as he can bulldoze through defenders and break off long runs with ease.
- Joe Mixon – Although he hasn’t received as much attention as some of the other running backs on this list, Mixon has quietly established himself as a reliable and productive player for the Cincinnati Bengals.
- Nick Chubb – Chubb’s impressive stats from the 2019 season (1,494 rushing yards and eight touchdowns) make him a strong contender for one of the top running backs in the league.
- Aaron Jones – Jones had a breakout season in 2019, with 1,084 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns for the Green Bay Packers.
- Todd Gurley – Despite some concerns over his lingering knee issues, Gurley is still a formidable running back with a proven track record of success.
Why These Running Backs Made the List
So, what exactly makes these running backs stand out from the rest of the pack? Let’s take a closer look:
- Consistency – These players have proven themselves to be reliable and consistent performers, putting up impressive stats year after year.
- Versatility – Many of these running backs are not only effective at running the ball, but also excel at catching passes and making big plays in the passing game.
- Athleticism – Whether it’s speed, power, or agility, these players possess the physical tools needed to make an impact on the field.
- Team success – While individual stats are certainly important, many of these players have also helped lead their teams to playoff appearances and even Super Bowl victories.
My Personal Favorite
As much as I love all of the players on this list, there’s one that stands out to me as my personal favorite – Christian McCaffrey. As a fantasy football player, I can attest to just how valuable he is, as he consistently puts up huge numbers both on the ground and through the air. Plus, his work ethic and dedication to the game are truly inspiring.
Expert Quotes
Don’t just take my word for it – here’s what some experts have to say about these top running backs:
Christian McCaffrey is the most complete back in football right now. He can do it all, and he does it all at an elite level. – Matt Bowen, ESPN NFL Analyst
Saquon Barkley is a once-in-a-generation talent. His combination of size, speed, and agility is truly special. – Louis Riddick, ESPN NFL Analyst
Ezekiel Elliott is the engine that drives the Dallas Cowboys’ offense. He’s a workhorse back who can carry the load and make big plays when it counts. – Brian Baldinger, NFL Network Analyst
FAQs
Who is the highest-paid running back in the NFL?
The highest-paid running back in the NFL is Ezekiel Elliott, who signed a six-year, $90 million contract extension with the Dallas Cowboys in 2019.
Which running back has the most career rushing yards?
Emmitt Smith currently holds the record for the most career rushing yards in NFL history, with 18,355 yards over the course of his 15-year career.
What is the average career length of an NFL running back?
The average career length of an NFL running back is only 2.57 years, due in part to the physical toll that the position takes on players’ bodies.
Which running back has the most Super Bowl wins?
Emmitt Smith and Franco Harris are tied for the most Super Bowl wins by a running back, with three each.
Who is the greatest running back of all time?
That’s a tough question to answer, as there have been so many incredible running backs throughout NFL history. Some of the most commonly cited candidates include Jim Brown, Walter Payton, and Barry Sanders.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed learning about the top 10 running backs in the NFL right now!