RB Index, Week 15: Top 15 Running Backs Entering Final Quarter of 2024 NFL Season
As the 2024 NFL season approaches its climax, the running back position remains a crucial factor in determining team success. With just four weeks remaining in the regular season, the race for the rushing title and postseason berths intensifies. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top 15 running backs heading into Week 15, based on their recent performance, consistency, and upcoming matchups:
1. Derrick Henry, Tennessee Titans
The reigning rushing champion continues to dominate, averaging 136.8 rushing yards per game and 12 touchdowns. Henry’s physicality and relentless running style make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. With a favorable matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 15, Henry is poised to extend his lead in the rushing race.
2. Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns
Chubb has emerged as a consistent workhorse for the Browns, averaging 112.6 rushing yards per game. His blend of power and agility makes him a threat both inside and outside the tackles. Facing the Carolina Panthers in Week 15, Chubb has a chance to further solidify his status as a top-tier running back.
3. Austin Ekeler, Los Angeles Chargers
Ekeler has been a revelation for the Chargers, leading the NFL in scrimmage yards (1,438). His versatility as a runner, receiver, and returner makes him a valuable asset to his team. With a tough matchup against the Miami Dolphins in Week 15, Ekeler will need to be at his best to keep the Chargers’ playoff hopes alive.
4. Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts
Taylor has rebounded from a slow start to the season, averaging 105.2 rushing yards per game over his last five outings. His combination of size and speed makes him a formidable runner, and he faces a favorable matchup against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 15.
5. Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
Barkley has been a key factor in the Giants’ resurgence this season, averaging 102.6 rushing yards per game. His ability to make defenders miss and create big plays makes him one of the most dangerous running backs in the NFL. Facing the Washington Commanders in Week 15, Barkley has a chance to continue his impressive run.
6. Kenneth Walker III, Seattle Seahawks
Walker has been a pleasant surprise for the Seahawks, averaging 92.3 rushing yards per game since becoming the team’s lead back. His speed and elusiveness make him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. With a matchup against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 15, Walker will have a chance to prove himself against one of the NFL’s top defenses.
7. Miles Sanders, Philadelphia Eagles
Sanders has been a consistent performer for the Eagles, averaging 88.4 rushing yards per game. His ability to make quick cuts and break tackles makes him a valuable asset in the Eagles’ high-powered offense. With a matchup against the Chicago Bears in Week 15, Sanders has a chance to add to his impressive tally.
8. Rhamondre Stevenson, New England Patriots
Stevenson has emerged as a key playmaker for the Patriots, averaging 84.3 rushing yards per game. His physicality and ability to break tackles make him a tough runner to bring down. With a matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 15, Stevenson will have a chance to showcase his skills against a formidable defense.
9. Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints
Kamara has been a versatile weapon for the Saints, averaging 82.1 rushing yards per game and leading the team in receptions. His ability to create mismatches out of the backfield makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. With a matchup against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 15, Kamara has a chance to continue his impressive season.
10. Josh Jacobs, Las Vegas Raiders
Jacobs has been a steady performer for the Raiders, averaging 81.3 rushing yards per game. His combination of size and speed makes him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. With a matchup against the New England Patriots in Week 15, Jacobs will have a chance to prove himself against a tough defense.
11. James Connor, Arizona Cardinals
Connor has been a reliable runner for the Cardinals, averaging 80.9 rushing yards per game. His ability to make tough yards and score touchdowns makes him a valuable asset to his team. With a matchup against the Denver Broncos in Week 15, Connor has a chance to continue his consistent production.
12. Ezekiel Elliott, Dallas Cowboys
Elliott has been a workhorse for the Cowboys, averaging 79.5 rushing yards per game. His ability to grind out tough yards and protect the football makes him a valuable asset to his team. With a matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 15, Elliott has a chance to add to his impressive career totals.
13. Jamaal Williams, Detroit Lions
Williams has been a surprising contributor for the Lions, averaging 78.4 rushing yards per game. His ability to find holes and make defenders miss makes him a dangerous runner. With a matchup against the New York Jets in Week 15, Williams has a chance to continue his impressive season.
14. Travis Etienne Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars
Etienne has been a bright spot for the Jaguars, averaging 75.2 rushing yards per game. His speed and agility make him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. With a matchup against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 15, Etienne has a chance to showcase his skills against a formidable defense.
15. Leonard Fournette, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Fournette has been a solid contributor for the Buccaneers, averaging 74.8 rushing yards per game. His ability to make tough yards and score touchdowns makes him a valuable asset to his team. With a matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 15, Fournette has a chance to continue his consistent production.
As the NFL season enters its final stretch, these top 15 running backs will play a crucial role in determining their teams’ playoff hopes. Their ability to produce consistently, make big plays, and protect the football will be key to their success. With just four weeks remaining, the race for the rushing title and postseason berths is sure to be exciting and unpredictable.