10 NFL running backs who can lead the league in rushing

NASHVILLE, TN - NOVEMBER 24: Derrick Henry #22 of the Tennessee Titans runs the ball during the second half of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Nissan Stadium on November 24, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Titans defeated the Jaguars 42-20. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

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ARLINGTON, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 10: Dalvin Cook #33 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on November 10, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images) /

9. Dalvin Cook

Health is obviously the big concern about Cook’s ability to lead the league in rushing. He managed to stay healthy for 14 games in 2019, but that was the highest total of his young professional career. If he wants to top the NFL in rushing, he’ll need to play all 16 games in 2020.

When Cook is on the field, he gives the Vikings elite production from the running back position. His ability to turn small creases into big games forces opposing defenses to account for him at all times. He’s a legitimate home run hitter from the running back position.

The Vikings offense also is a unit that wants to set the table with the running game. Cook got 250 carries last year and could easily push 300 if he stays healthy. That’s the kind of volume that will be required for any running back who wants to top his peers in terms of production.

Cook shouldn’t be one of the top contenders to lead the NFL in rushing, but it would be a serious mistake to omit him from the conversation entirely. Plenty of running backs don’t really hit their prime until they reach their mid-20s. Cook’s age-25 season could easily turn into the most productive campaign of his entire career.

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