Top 10 Best Running Backs in the NFL Today 2023
Based on Overall Talent and Production Throughout the 2022-23 Season
This is a new era for Running Backs. Not only are they expected to be dominant in between the tackles, but the best running backs in the NFL are also expected to be dominant pass catchers.
This season featured some fall-offs of some of the best and some young running backs approaching stardom. These are the best running backs in the NFL today based on overall talent and production throughout the 2022-2023 season.
Top 10 Best Running Backs in the NFL Today 2023 – #10 Tony Pollard
#10 – Tony Pollard
Tony Pollard is living proof that you should not overpay your running backs. Especially ones that aren’t effective at catching passes. Ezekiel Elliott is getting paid 15 million dollars per season. Tony Pollard is getting paid just under a million. Ridiculous. Even with Zeke getting paid 15x more money, Pollard was the far more efficient running back averaging a whole 1.4 more yards per carry.
Not only that, he established himself as one of the better pass catching running backs in the NFL. That dual threat ability is what makes him so special. When he’s in the backfield, his all-around ability opens up the playbook for the offense. He can do anything which makes it harder for defenses to predict the play.
With Pollard entering free agency this season, it’s unclear what the Cowboys will decide to do with him. My guess is it’s either cutting Zeke and paying Pollard, or just letting him walk. Either way he is going to be a massive asset for whichever team he decides to join. While he did suffer a broken leg at the end of the season, I believe in his recovery and that his overall talent will prevail.
Top 10 Best Running Backs in the NFL Today 2023 – #9 Dalvin Cook
#9 – Dalvin Cook
You know you’re a superstar when recording over 1100 rushing yards is considered a down year. While Dalvin Cook’s 4.4 yards per carry were the lowest of his career, he was instrumental for the Vikings’ 13-4 finish this season.
One of my questions was whether or not he would be able to finish a full season. Throughout his career he had yet to play over 14 games in a season. This was his first. That reliability allowed for the Vikings to continue to rely on the consistent rushing attack.
I still believe in Dalvin Cook as an elite talent at the running back position. You still see just how explosive he is when he touches the football. His burst is like he’s shot out of a cannon. I expect his production will continue to be among one of the league leaders next season. He passes the eye test with flying colors.
Top 10 Best Running Backs in the NFL Today 2023 – #8 Kenneth Walker
#8 – Kenneth Walker
With all the hype around rookie Breece Hall coming into the season, Kenneth Walker really flew under the radar. What a mistake that was. The moment Rashaad Penny got injured, Kenneth Walker exploded onto the scene and is my vote for offensive rookie of the year.
This man is a freak athlete. He ran a 4.38 40 yard dash at the combine which is in the 98th percentile amongst all running backs. We saw this on display this season as he was a home run hitter.
While Geno Smith gets most of the love for turning around the Seahawks, it was their rushing attack that really propelled them into the playoffs. Kenneth Walker was their rock and should be the star running back for the Seahawks for years to come.
