In the last decade or so, the NFL has become a much pass happier league, and at times the art of the running back feels lost. Perhaps some of it is because of the durability and longevity of the position, but it seems as if there are very few superstar RBs in the current NFL. However, there are still some really special players at the position such as Raiders’ RB Josh Jacobs who looks to become only the third running back in NFL history to lead the league in rushing in back-to-back years.
Jacobs is among a handful of guys we would consider elite, alongside Derrick Henry, who is also a former RB for the Crimson Tide. Pro Football Focus ranked all of the starting running backs in the NFL, including four former Alabama players.
The top five ranked RBs on their list were in order: Nick Chubb of the Cleveland Browns, Derrick Henry of the Tennessee Titans, Christian McCaffrey of the San Fransisco 49ers, Josh Jacobs of the Las Vegas Raiders and Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts. Good to see two of the former Alabama backs crack the top five.
Najee Harris of the Pittsburgh Steelers enters at No. 19 on the list. He’s been a 1000 yard rusher both seasons in the league, so I think he will continue to move up the list. Damien Harris is also expected to be a starter for the Buffalo Bills this year and is ranked at No. 24. Harris was very productive during his time with the Patriots, but he will hopefully find an ever bigger role with the Bills.
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