Top 10 RBs Heading into 2020

After our rankings of the top QBs going into next year, we figured that there are more positions to go over! This week features our tailback group in the NFL. This position group has a lot of talent and many can make a case for one over the other and vice versa.

*Each writer was asked to give their personal top 10. This is a joint list. Points given based on each selection (#1 = 10 points, #2 = 9 points, #3 = 8 points etc.)

Just Missed the Cut: (Points)

13. Aaron Jones (4)

T-11. Austin Ekeler (6)

T-11 Raheem Mostert (6)

Top 10 RBs Heading into 2020:

10. Joe Mixon (7)

Mixon put up lower numbers last year than he did the year prior. Factor in that he played for Cincinnati and we will give him a pass on this declining numbers, especially since the last two years Joe rushed for more than 1,000 yards. The Bengals are well on their way with the rebuilding process with reigning Heisman winner Joe Burrow looking to take the helm day one in Cincy. Joe Mixon should be a big part of the plan to relieve the pressure in Burrow's rookie season as a rusher and a reliable pass option out of the backfield.

T-8. Josh Jacobs (9)

Jacobs seemed to be the only bright spot on the Raiders' pretty disappointing 2019 campaign. The rookie out of Alabama should see his role expanded in year two as they seldom used him as a receiver as he finished the season with only 20 receptions in 13 games. It also seems as if the seat could become pretty hot if Jon Gruden does not provide a decent year. Gruden needs to lean on Jacobs to take that next step.

T-8. Leonard Fournette (9)

After the Jags declined his fifth year option this spring, it looks like the Fournette experiment is over after this year in Jacksonville. It may end even sooner as the rumor mill seems to spin faster each day as the season approaches with team like Kansas City and Philadelphia looking to make a move. Through the turmoil, Fournette was able to get a good 15 games in last season and produce for a team that had no hope after week one. If I were Fournette, I would be hoping for a change of scenery - sooner rather than later.

7. Alvin Kamara (30)

Kamara had a down year in 2019 and it ended with an even more disappointing home loss to the Vikings in the playoffs on Wild Card weekend. However, with the running numbers down, Kamara proved to be an effective weapon in the passing games for Drew Brees and the Saints. This is potentially a contract year if the Saints don't pick up his option after the season is over. Another RB on this list that has a lot to play for in 2020 with a contract looming.

6. Nick Chubb (34)

Chubb has been able to make the most of his two years in Cleveland, especially last season where he racked up 1,494 yards. With that being said, Kevin Stefanski is a run heavy guy and that should bode well for Chubb as the Browns try to rebound after a most awfully terrible season (considering the pre-season hype). I have no doubt the Chubb will be here to stay for a while, but his success in 2020 will depend on how well the new offensive schemes for the Browns work.

5. Ezekiel Elliott (35)

It's really funny to see how much of the Cowboys' roller coaster type of a season actually correlates to Elliott's inconsistent production. Zeke is certainly capable of being an all-world rusher, but considering the line he is running behind, one might expect more out of him. 2020 should be Elliott's year after Dallas added more to their already potent passing game, opening up the field for him more consistently.

4. Dalvin Cook (41)

Surprise! - Another running back on this list looking for a contract extension. In Cook's three years, his only super season was last year, making this season even more important to prove that he is worth a big ol' contract extension from the Vikings. New Offensive Coordinator Gary Kubiak will have to give Cook chances to carry the team and just allow Kirk Cousins to manage the game, not lead.

3. Derrick Henry (42 - two first place votes)

Henry was one of two guys to receive first place votes, yet he is 3rd on our list. Our panel was very conflicted (one ranking him as low as 8th) on how they felt about the tear King Henry went on to end the season and into the postseason. His production is what turned the season around for the Titans and you should expect nothing different this up and coming year. There is no one on that Tennessee offense as talented as Derrick Henry - my dark horse pick for 2020 league MVP.

2. Saquon Barkley (43)

Barkley played three less games last season due to injuries but was still able to manage over 1,000 yards. The Giants walk into this season with an improved offensive line, which should bode well not only for Daniel Jones, but also their workhorse, Barkley. There is not much left for Barkley to prove as long as he keeps up his consistent production. I just feel bad for him knowing that the Giants are a few years away from any type of contention.

1. Christian McCaffrey (58 - four first place votes)

The problem with McCaffrey is - Oh wait, there isn't one. Christian is the most dynamic duel threat running back in the league, hurting your defense in all aspects of the game. McCaffrey was rewarded with a healthy contract extension this off-season and he was the most well deserving of all the RBs on this list. The Panthers are one team that not many people are talking about. After signing Teddy Bridgewater, I expect CMC to take Charlotte back to contention at least within two years, if not this season.

What did we miss? Who is too high, too low? Let us know in the comments!

Author: Jordan Riddick

Contributions by the TWOB NFL Staff