Fantasy Football 2024 RB Exit Interview: A Year of Running Back Renaissance
The 2024 season saw a remarkable resurgence in running back performance, with multiple players achieving historic stats and redefining the position.
Derrick Henry, Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, Josh Jacobs, NFL, USA
City: Nashville:
Derrick Henry just wrapped up an incredible season. He rushed for 1,921 yards, which is the 11th most in NFL history. Can you believe that? He averaged 5.9 yards per carry and scored 18 touchdowns. Yet, he didn’t lead the league in any of those categories. Talk about a stacked year for running backs!
This season was a total game-changer. In 2023, only Christian McCaffrey topped 1,200 rushing yards. Fast forward to this year, and seven players crossed that mark. Saquon Barkley was on fire too, almost breaking the single-season rushing record if not for some key players resting in Week 18.
It felt like a throwback to the early 2000s, with running backs shining from rookies to seasoned pros. Even the so-called “RB dead zone” had some surprises. Let’s dive into the highlights and lowlights of the season.
First up, Saquon Barkley. He had a historic rushing season with the Eagles, hitting triple digits in yardage 13 times. Then there’s Bijan Robinson, who was a beast, racking up 1,887 scrimmage yards. If it were a normal year, he’d be the clear RB1 for 2025.
Derrick Henry, at 31, had his most efficient year yet. He set career highs in yards per carry and missed tackles. If you’re worried about his age, just watch the tape. He’s still got it!
Jahmyr Gibbs had a standout finish, leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns. He’s a key player for the Lions, and he’s only getting started. Josh Jacobs also proved his worth, finishing strong with 1,671 scrimmage yards.
De’Von Achane was a bright spot for Miami, showing up big with 907 rushing yards and leading all backs in receptions. Kyren Williams quietly had a solid season, too, with new career highs in carries and touchdowns.
Jonathan Taylor had a legendary playoff run, while James Cook led the league in rushing touchdowns. Bucky Irving was a revelation as a rookie, and Chase Brown became a reliable RB1 for Cincinnati.
On the flip side, Christian McCaffrey had a rough year with injuries. Breece Hall didn’t live up to expectations, and Travis Etienne Jr. struggled to make an impact. Injuries also hit Isiah Pacheco and Kenneth Walker III hard.
Looking ahead, here are the way-too-early RB rankings for 2025: Saquon Barkley, Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, Derrick Henry, and Christian McCaffrey round out the top five. It’s going to be an exciting year ahead!