Today the NFL is more versed than ever, so having a great  running back is now more important  than ever. Backs have to be able to run, block and run routes like a wide receiver out of the backfield. Before I get into the top 10 list, here are 7 guys that either due to age, injury, or just talent are a step below the top 10 crew.

The Cut List- Kenneth Walker III, Najeee Harris, Rhamondre Stevenson, Miles Sanders, Breece Hall, Tony Pollard, Aaron Jones.

10. Alvin Kamara

2022 Stats  223 Att  897 yds 2 td  57 rec 490 yds 2 td

Kamara has been the lead back in town for awhile now. He has torched defenses via land and air. However he falls to 10 on this list with a looming suspension from off field activity. Jamal Williams is also in New Orleans ready to take a his fair share of the carries. Kamara is likely to see a dial back on numbers this season but with Derek Carr in town and Michael Thomas healthy I expect a rebound for this Saints offense.

9. Joe Mixon

2022 Stats  210 Att  814 yds  7 td  60 rec  441 yds  2 td

Mixon is talented and has been in the fold after posting his fourth straight season of over 1200 yards from scrimmage. He continues to produce in one of the leagues pass friendliest offenses. The addition of tackle Orlando Brown will benefit anyone in this Cincinnati backfield.

8. Dalvin Cook

2022 Stats  264 Att  1173 yds  8 td  295 yds  39 rec  2 td

One of the most explosive backs in the league with his numbers on full display. 1468 yards from scrimmage in 2022. Barring injury Cook is another back who flourishes in a pass happy offense. Cook and co star Justin Jefferson look to lead this Vikings offense again in 2023.

7. Austin Ekeler

2022 Stats  204 Att  915 yds  13 td  107 rec  722 yds  5 td

Only 1 player had over 105 receptions and over 900 rushing yards. That is Austin Ekeler. A complete 3 down back with vicious dual threat ability. This touchdown machine was helping Justin Herbert carry the Chargers to the playoffs while their top two receivers missed time due to injury.

6. Saquon Barkley

2022 Stats  295 Att  1312 yds  12 td  57 rec  338 yd

We knew it was just a matter of time before Saquon returned to the spot where he belongs. Barley was reborn and unleashed in 2022 totaling 1650 yards from scrimmage and 10 touchdowns.  The heart of this Giants team looks to consistently stay healthy and produce into next season.

5. Josh Jacobs

2022 Stats  340 Att  1653 yds  12 td  53 rec  400 yds

Fresh off leading the league in rushing, Jacobs is looking for to pick up right where he left off. An excellent back capable of grinding out the small runs and hitting the home run. Jacobs is as pure of a runner as any back on this list.

4. Nick Chubb

2022 Stats  302 Att  1525 yds  12 td  27 rec  239 yds 1 td

Enter Chubb, a wrecking ball with excellent vision. Capable of turning negative runs into positive gains. There’s a reason Chubb has led the league in yards after contact since 2018. His numbers are more impressive considering he’s been in timeshare with teammate Kareem Hunt.

3. Johnathan Taylor

2022 Stats  192 Att  861 yds  4 td  28 rec  143 yds

The 20221 first team All Pro took a huge step back last year. Between injuries and an offensive line that generated virtually no push, it was a disappointing season. There is some optimism with a new head coach and quarterback at the helm. Expect a massive return from this Indy rushing attack featuring J.T.

4. Derrick Henry

2022 Stats  349 Att  1538 yds  13 td  33 rec  398 yds

Henry is tank that barrels down hill and strikes fear in defenses. There’s a reason Henry has seen more eight man fronts than any other back in the league. With the rest of the Titans offensive skill in a frenzy, we will see Henry carry the load once again.

1. Christian McCaffery

2022 Stats  244 Att  1139 yds  8 td  85 rec  741 yds  5 td

This selection was easy. For two seasons we waited on Run CMC to get healthy to remind us there is no more versatile back. This man can even play in the slot. In an offense with Deebo Samuel and George Kittle CMC came in right away and became the star of the show. McCafferey will be looking to pace the 49ers back to that elusive Super Bowl Championship.