NFL’s Top Running Backs for 2025
The 2025 NFL season is shaping up to showcase an elite group of running backs, with a mixture of established stars and emerging talents. A recent survey conducted by ESPN involving over 70 league executives, coaches, and scouts identified the top ten running backs, highlighting a resurgence in rushing offenses across the league. With seven teams averaging over 140 rushing yards per game in 2024, the return to a ground-and – pound style of play has made the running back position more critical than ever.
Saquon Barkley Leads the Pack
Topping the list is Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles, who has solidified his place as a premier running back. Barkley’s remarkable 2024 season saw him amass 2, 504 rushing yards combined with seven scrimmage touchdowns of over 60 yards, setting a new NFL record for most yards in a season. His ability to reach speeds of at least 20 mph on nine touchdown runs showcases his explosive athleticism. An NFL personnel director emphasized, “He can go another few years with high-level play behind that offensive line, ” indicating confidence in his longevity and performance.
Derrick Henry’s Continued Dominance
In second place, Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens continues to defy age-related decline, amassing 1, 921 yards and 16 touchdowns in
2024. His prowess is underscored by an astounding 830 rushing yards after contact, which is 191 more than the next closest player. An AFC executive remarked, “He’ll slow down at some point, but he’s got elite body composition and elite work ethic.” Henry’s 5.9 yards per rush last season were the highest for a player with 250 carries since Adrian Peterson in 2012, demonstrating his efficiency even as he ages.
Emerging Stars: Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan ROIinson
The third and fourth spots are occupied by young talents Jahmyr Gibbs from the Detroit Lions and Bijan ROIinson of the Atlanta Falcons. Gibbs, at just 23 years old, led the NFL in touchdowns with 20 in 2024, showcasing his potential as a game-changer. His 6.4 yards per touch last season was the highest for any player with 250 touches in the past decade. Meanwhile, ROIinson, also 23, became a primary back in 2024, recording 1, 456 yards and 14 touchdowns. An NFL coordinator noted, “He’s a nightmare to prepare for, ” confirming his status as a rising star in the league.
Christian McCaffrey’s Durability Concerns
Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers, ranked fifth, remains a top talent despite ongoing durability concerns. He has missed 10 or more games in three of the past five seasons, which has influenced his ranking. However, when healthy, McCaffrey consistently produces at a high level, with four seasons recording at least 1, 800 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns. An NFC scout remarked, “He’s still the prototype – – and the best player on the field at times, ” indicating that his potential for game-changing plays remains intact.
Josh Jacobs: A Reliable Force
Josh Jacobs, now with the Green Bay Packers, ranks sixth after a standout season where he recorded 1, 329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. His performance has been critical in bolstering Green Bay’s offense. A high-ranking NFC executive praised Jacobs for his “elite balance, strength, vision, feet, and determination.” His consistency is evident as he is the only NFL player to exceed 1, 000 scrimmage yards and five touchdowns in each year since 2019.
Jonathan Taylor’s Continued Production
Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts, who secured the seventh position, has demonstrated impressive productivity despite a tumultuous contract situation in
2023. His 1, 432 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns in 2024 still place him among the elite backs, making him the first player since Adrian Peterson to reach 6, 000 rushing yards and 50 rushing touchdowns in his first five seasons. An AFC executive aptly noted, “He’s underrated, ” highlighting Taylor’s ability to consistently perform.
James Cook and Joe Mixon: Rising and Rejuvenated
At eighth, James Cook of the Buffalo Bills saw a breakthrough season with 16 touchdowns, earning him a place in the top
10. His performance in 2024 included an impressive average of 3.1 yards per rush before contact, indicating his effective running style. Conversely, Joe Mixon, who ranks ninth, rejuvenated his career in Houston after a trade. His ability to maintain a high level of performance, evidenced by his consistency in achieving over 1, 300 scrimmage yards in the past four seasons, has made him a valuable asset for the Texans.
Alvin Kamara’s Resurgence
Finally, Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints rounds out the top ten, rebounding with 1, 503 scrimmage yards in
2024. While some evaluators express concerns about his slight decline, Kamara’s ability to remain impactful is evident. His consistent production over eight seasons, including eclipsing 600 rushing yards and 400 receiving yards each year, places him among the elite in NFL history. An NFL offensive coach remarked on his ability to make big plays, indicating that Kamara still possesses the skills to change games. In conclusion, the running back position is experiencing a renaissance, with a blend of established stars and emerging talents leading the charge for the 2025 NFL season. As teams continue to prioritize rushing offenses, these players will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the league’s landscape.
