2025 NFL Running Back Rankings: Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry Anchor the Top Ten

Who Makes the Cut?

When you ask around the league, names like Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry instantly rise to the top of any conversation about the best NFL running backs for 2025. Barkley, now entering his prime with the New York Giants, posted a career‑high 1,315 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns last season, while Henry continued to dominate the Tennessee Titans' ground game with 1,242 yards and a league‑leading 13 scores.

Joining these two are a mix of seasoned veterans and breakout newcomers. Aaron Jones (Packers) stayed consistent with 1,089 yards and seven scores. Meanwhile, Christian McCaffrey (49ers) bounced back from injury, tallying 1,203 yards across rushes and receptions, cementing his dual‑threat status. The list also welcomes younger faces like Breece Hall (Jaguars), who posted 1,020 yards in his sophomore year, and Bijan Robinson (Falcons), who vaulted into the conversation after a 1,140‑yard rookie campaign.

Why These Ten Stand Out

Beyond raw numbers, each player’s impact on their team’s offense shaped the rankings. Barkley’s ability to break tackles and extend plays gave the Giants a reliable offensive anchor after years of inconsistency. Henry’s power running opened up play‑action passes for the Titans, making the whole offense more unpredictable.

Veterans like Austin Ekeler (Chargers) and Dalvin Cook (Vikings) proved they can still produce at an elite level, contributing both on the ground and in the passing game. Their versatility forces defenses to stay honest, a trait that coaches value highly.

Rising stars bring a different flavor. Hall’s vision and quickness helped the Jaguars transition to a more balanced attack, while Robinson’s blend of speed and power forced defenses to allocate extra resources to contain him, freeing up his teammates.

• Saquon Barkley – New York Giants – 1,315 yards, 11 TDs
• Derrick Henry – Tennessee Titans – 1,242 yards, 13 TDs
• Aaron Jones – Green Bay Packers – 1,089 yards, 7 TDs
• Christian McCaffrey – San Francisco 49ers – 1,203 yards (rush/rec), 9 TDs
• Breece Hall – Jacksonville Jaguars – 1,020 yards, 6 TDs
• Bijan Robinson – Atlanta Falcons – 1,140 yards, 8 TDs
• Austin Ekeler – Los Angeles Chargers – 1,018 yards, 5 TDs
• Dalvin Cook – Minnesota Vikings – 1,032 yards, 8 TDs
• Nick Chubb – Cleveland Browns – 1,180 yards, 12 TDs
• Joe Mixon – Cincinnati Bengals – 1,065 yards, 9 TDs

Injuries remain the biggest wildcard. Barkley missed three games last year, and Henry missed two due to a minor ankle strain. Their health will dictate whether they can sustain elite production throughout the full season.

Coaches also factor in scheme fit. Teams that prioritize a run‑first approach, like the Browns with Nick Chubb, naturally boost their backs’ stats. Conversely, pass‑heavy offenses might limit a running back’s yardage but open up scoring opportunities via receptions.

All told, the 2025 ranking reflects a blend of power, agility, durability, and scheme compatibility. As the season unfolds, fans will watch closely to see who climbs the list and who might slip due to injuries or offensive adjustments.