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) /

9 of 10

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – NOVEMBER 04: Saquon Barkley #26 of the New York Giants looks on during warmups against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on November 04, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

2. Saquon Barkley

With all due respect to Elliott, he isn’t the best running back in his own division. Barkley doesn’t have nearly the supporting cast that his Cowboys rival enjoys, but he still puts up huge numbers for the Giants offense.

The expected progression of Daniel Jones at the quarterback position should make life easier for Barkley as his career progresses. That means he should be able to improve on last year’s average of 4.6 yards per carry. If Barkley can stay healthy in 2020, he could see that average go north of five yards per rushing attempt.

If Barkley flashes that kind of efficiency, look for the Giants offense to hand him the ball more than ever before. Remember, Jason Garrett is now in charge of the team’s offense. He’s comfortable with the idea of feeding his franchise running back 300 carries in a single season. That would represent a meaningful increase in Barkley’s workload.

1,540 yards was good enough to lead the NFL in rushing last season. 300 carries at five yards a pop gets you just under that number. An extra big play or two from Barkley could be enough to power him to a rushing title in 2020.

Home/NFL