2024 NFL Running Back Rankings: Complete Breakdown of Every Team’s Backfield

The 2024 NFL Running Back Rankings position has undergone dramatic changes in recent years, with committees replacing workhorse backs and pass-catching ability becoming as valuable as rushing production. This 2,500-word definitive guide analyzes all 32 NFL backfields for the 2024 season, featuring:

✔ Top 5 most dangerous rushing attacks
✔ Most improved backfields after offseason moves
✔ Teams with concerning RB situations
✔ Breakdown of committee shares and scheme fits
✔ Fantasy football implications for PPR and standard leagues

Section 1: The Elite – Top 5 Running Back Units

1. San Francisco 49ers

Projected Rotation:

• Christian McCaffrey (1,459 rush yards, 21 total TDs in 2023)

• Elijah Mitchell (change-of-pace)

• Jordan Mason (short-yardage)

Why They Rank #1:

• McCaffrey is NFL’s most complete back (led league in scrimmage yards)

• Perfect fit for Kyle Shanahan’s outside zone scheme

• Multiple Pro Bowl blockers up front

2023 Stats:

• Led NFL in rushing TDs (27)

• 5.4 yards per carry (best in league)

2. Detroit Lions

Dynamic Duo:

• Jahmyr Gibbs (1,261 total yards as rookie)

• David Montgomery (1,015 rush yards)

X-Factor:
Gibbs could make Year 2 leap to superstardom

Section 2: Most Improved Backfields

1. Philadelphia Eagles

Key Addition:

• Saquon Barkley (1,242 total yards in 2023)

Impact:

• Upgrade from 28th to top-5 potential

• Perfect for Eagles’ RPO-heavy offense

• “Could lead NFL in scrimmage yards” – NFL NewsZ

2. Baltimore Ravens

New Weapon:

• Derrick Henry (1,381 total yards)

• Joins Lamar Jackson in terrifying option attack

Section 3: Teams With RB Concerns

1. Dallas Cowboys

Problems:

• Lost Tony Pollard in free agency

• Ezekiel Elliott past his prime

• No clear RB1 on roster

Projection: Committee approach limits upside 2024 NFL Running Back Rankings

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Issues:

• Rachaad White inefficient (3.6 YPC)

• No significant additions

• Weak offensive line

Section 4: Positional Trends

Best Workhorse Backs

1. Christian McCaffrey (49ers)

2. Derrick Henry (Ravens)

3. Bijan Robinson (Falcons)

Breakout Candidate: Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions)

Best Pass-Catching Backs

1. Christian McCaffrey (49ers)

2. Alvin Kamara (Saints)

3. Saquon Barkley (Eagles)

Section 5: Fantasy Football Impact

RB1 Locks

• Christian McCaffrey (49ers – elite volume)

• Bijan Robinson (Falcons – expanded role)

Value Picks

• Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions – 2nd round ADP)

• James Cook (Bills – underrated workload)

Read More: 2024 NFL Quarterback Rankings: Complete Analysis of Every Team’s QB Situation

Final Rankings: 1-32

For daily NFL RB analysis, visit NFL NewsZ – your #1 source for backfield breakdowns and fantasy insights.