NFL Power Rankings: Who will have the best rushing attack this season?

NFL Power Rankings: Which teams will have the best rushing attacks this season?

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) celebrates with running back Gus Edwards (35) after a touchdown by wide receiver Seth Roberts (not pictured) in the second quarter against the Houston Texans at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 18, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson (38) scores on a 34-yard touchdown run in the second half against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. The Raiders defeated the Patriots 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Power Rankings: 21. New England Patriots

2022 rushing yards rank: 24th
2022 yards per carry rank: 21st

Ranking the Patriots’ running game this low feels odd, but it is warranted.

I am actually a big fan of both Rhamondre Stevenson and Pierre Strong Jr. Stevenson was outstanding last season; he was one of only five running backs to rush for 1,000+ yards and average 5.0+ yards per carry, along with Nick Chubb, Aaron Jones, Travis Etienne, and Tony Pollard. Meanwhile, Strong has elite speed, running a 4.37-second 40-yard dash at the NFL combine. In his rookie season, he had 10 carries for 100 yards. With Damien Harris in Buffalo, he should play a larger role moving forward.

However, New England’s offensive line ranked last in the NFL in run block win rate in 2022 (68 percent). Free agent signing Riley Reiff projects to take over at right tackle, but is that enough? Last season, Reiff posted a PFF grade of 64.3.

New England’s running back duo has the potential to be elite, but the offensive line hampers their ceiling.

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