The Best NFL Running Backs for 2025: Alofoke Deportes Analysis
With the 2025 NFL training camps on the horizon, league experts have spoken. Alofoke Deportes presents a comprehensive analysis of the top 10 players in 11 different positions, from quarterbacks to cornerbacks, based on surveys of league executives, coaches, and scouts.
This is the sixth year of these rankings, and as usual, some players have moved up or down compared to last year’s lists. The ranking process is based on expert votes, composite averages, and interviews, with the help of NFL expert analysis.
The objective is to identify the best players for 2025, without considering long-term projections. Who are the best players today? This analysis focuses on runners, with updated data and expert opinions.The 2024 season demonstrated a resurgence of running backs, with seven teams averaging at least 140 rushing yards per game, a significant increase from the previous year. “The best play in American football continues to be the ability to simply hand the ball to your best athlete on the field and make everyone else look foolish trying to tackle him,” commented a veteran NFC scout.
The runners from Philadelphia, Baltimore, Detroit, and Atlanta shone, leading their teams. Below, the Top 10 NFL running backs for 2025:
Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles
Barkley dominated in 2024, obtaining almost all first-place votes. His performance recalled the decision of former New York Giants general manager Dave Gettleman to select a running back with the second overall pick in the 2018 draft. Barkley justified that choice with his exceptional performance.
“It was expected, it was always expected to be that way,” said an NFL personnel director. “He showed what people thought it would be.”
NFL Personnel Director
Barkley led the league with 2,504 rushing yards and seven touchdowns of over 60 yards, demonstrating his speed and playmaking ability. Experts anticipate that he can maintain a high level of play on the Eagles.
Derrick Henry, Baltimore Ravens
Henry, despite his age, remains a dominant runner. His 830 rushing yards after contact in 2024 were significantly higher than those of other players. His work ethic and physical composition allow him to maintain elite performance.
“He has an elite body composition and an elite work ethic,” said an AFC executive. “He’s a monster. Nobody wants to tackle him, and when he wears you down, that’s when he makes that big run.”
AFC Executive
Henry proved to be even more efficient with time, averaging 5.9 yards per carry, the highest in the league for players with at least 250 carries in a season since 2012.
Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions
Gibbs stood out thanks to his speed and ability to change the game. He led the NFL with 20 touchdowns. His speed and ability to change the game make him a constant threat.
“He’s very similar to Reggie Bush, only with a little more power”, said an AFC executive. “His speed and instincts and his ability to change the game are a problem and perhaps the best in the league”.
AFC Executive
Gibbs is more effective in a 1-2 combination, but he proved his worth in the absence of David Montgomery.
Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons
Robinson, after limited usage in his rookie year, became the primary running back in 2024, accumulating 1,456 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. He has lived up to high expectations, becoming one of the few players in NFL history to produce 2,400 rushing yards and 100 receptions in his first two seasons.
“Size, speed, acceleration, passing game, grit, tackle-breaking, can hit home runs”, said an NFL coordinator. “He’s a nightmare to prepare for”.
NFL Coordinator
Robinson is a key piece for the Falcons and their young quarterback, Michael Penix Jr.
Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers
Durability is the main challenge for McCaffrey, who has missed several games in recent seasons. When he is healthy, his production is remarkable, accumulating four seasons with at least 1,800 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns.
“He’s still the prototype and the best player on the field sometimes,” said an NFC scout.
Josh Jacobs, Green Bay Packers
Jacobs justified the Packers’ investment, accumulating 1,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. He is known for his balance, strength, and vision.
“Balance, strength, vision, elite feet and determination with the ball in his hands”, said an NFC personnel executive. “He’s a true difference maker”.
NFC Personnel Executive
Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts
Taylor had a productive season despite the inconsistencies in the quarterback’s game. His speed is still elite and he has proven to be a consistent runner.
“He’s underrated,” said an AFC executive. “Highly productive and can wear you down before making a big run.”
James Cook, Buffalo Bills
Cook entered the Top 10 after a season of 16 touchdowns. His speed and ability in the passing game make him a versatile player.
“Dangerous and explosive,” said an NFL personnel executive.
Joe Mixon, Houston Texans
Mixon was revitalized in Houston, showing good vision and balance. He is a consistent player with good performance.
“Very good vision, feet, contact balance: a hammer in the running game,” said an NFL personnel evaluator.
Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints
Kamara returned to the Top 10 thanks to his 1,503 scrimmage yards. Although some see a slight decrease, Kamara remains a valuable player, highlighting his ability to gain yards after the reception.
“Some of the elite qualities are still there,” said an NFL offensive coach. “He can still take a screen for big yards and still has great contact balance.”
NFL offensive coach
Honorable Mentions
Bucky Irving, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Aaron Jones Sr., Minnesota Vikings
De’Von Achane, Miami Dolphins
Breece Hall, New York Jets
James Conner, Arizona Cardinals
Also receiving votes: Kyren Williams (Los Angeles Rams), David Montgomery (Detroit Lions), Brian Robinson Jr. (Washington Commanders), Chuba Hubbard (Carolina Panthers), D’Andre Swift (Chicago Bears), Kenneth Walker III (Seattle Seahawks).
