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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Jan 14, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) leaps into the end zone for a second quarter touchdown during a wild card game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Power Rankings: 20. Seattle Seahawks

2022 rushing yards rank: 18th
2022 yards per carry rank: 7th

As a rookie, Kenneth Walker III rushed for 1,050 yards (most among the 2022 draft class) and nine touchdowns in 15 games. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, he recorded the fastest ball carrier time among running backs last season (22.09).

The second-round pick was one of the most NFL-ready players in the 2022 draft class. At Michigan State, he was a unanimous All-American and Doak Walker Award winner. He should continue to play at a high level in 2023.

So, why do I project the Seahawks to take a step back? Well, they lost a huge piece in Rashaad Penny. Penny is one of the most underrated players in the NFL. Since 2019, he leads all running backs in yards per carry (5.9). Like Walker, Penny boasts elite speed. Last season, he posted the fifth-fastest ball carrier time among running backs last season (21.44).

Penny struggled with injuries, but his impact was palpable. Last season, the Seahawks averaged 5.5 yards per carry with Penny active and 4.5 yards per carry without him.

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