The NFC West is a powerhouse when it comes to running backs, showcasing a mix of established stars and promising newcomers. This division’s backfield is rich in talent, making it a thrilling battleground for both fans and fantasy players alike. Let’s take a closer look at the top running backs in this competitive landscape.
San Francisco 49ers: Christian McCaffrey and Isaac Guerendo
Christian McCaffrey stands out as one of the most formidable offensive weapons in football today. His ability to dominate on the ground while also showcasing incredible receiving skills has marked him as a dual threat that defenses dread facing. After clinching the Offensive Player of the Year Award in 2023, it’s evident what McCaffrey can do when he’s healthy. However, it’s tough to ignore his past injury woes. When he’s on the field, he’s the engine driving the 49ers’ offense, but can he maintain his durability? If he falters, the 49ers still have promising options.
Enter Isaac Guerendo, who is ready to step into more significant playing time as the 49ers’ RB2. At just 24 years old, Guerendo impressed in his rookie season with 420 rushing yards on 84 carries, which averages out to a solid five yards per attempt. As McCaffrey’s backup, Guerendo will be crucial if the star running back struggles to stay on the field. Watching his growth this season will be interesting, especially if he gets more opportunities to shine.
Los Angeles Rams: Kyren Williams and Blake Corum
Kyren Williams has quickly emerged as one of the standout running backs in the league. A fifth-round draft pick in 2022, he’s turned heads and proven to be one of the Rams’ best-kept secrets. With an impressive 2,443 rushing yards across the last two seasons and a staggering 1,299 yards just in 2024, Williams has positioned himself as a reliable powerhouse. Ranking third in the league for carries with 316, and scoring 14 touchdowns, it’s clear that Williams is set to shoulder a significant load for Los Angeles moving forward.
Backing him up is Blake Corum, still finding his way at 24 years old. After a stellar college career where he was the primary back for Michigan, Corum is poised to showcase his abilities in the NFL. While he hasn’t yet reached the end zone in his professional career, he carries the potential to break out in 2024. The Rams are hopeful that with more experience, Corum will step up and contribute meaningfully to the offense.
Arizona Cardinals: James Conner and Trey Benson
To rank James Conner lower in this list feels almost unjust, especially considering his consistent production with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. In 2024 alone, he rushed for 1,094 yards and added another 414 through the air. At 30, he’s continuing to redefine expectations for veteran running backs, proving that he still has plenty left in the tank. His ability to make plays and be a reliable option for the Cardinals cannot be underestimated.
With the team’s reliance on Conner, there’s hope for Trey Benson to emerge as a more impactful player in his second year. Though his rookie season was fairly quiet, averaging 4.6 yards per carry and ending with 291 yards and one touchdown, there’s potential for him to lighten Conner’s load this season. The Cardinals are eager to see how Benson develops, working alongside a seasoned pro like Conner.
Seattle Seahawks: Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet
Despite being the last ranked on this list, Kenneth Walker III’s talent is undeniable. It’s merely a testament to the rich talent pool within the NFC West that he finds himself here. Still, Walker is exceptional with raw power and speed, making him a threat every time he touches the ball. He exceeded 1,000 rushing yards in his rookie season and was close to 900 the following year, though injuries cropped up and impacted his production. Walker’s ceiling is through the roof, and at only 24, he’s got a long career ahead of him if he can stay healthy.
Zach Charbonnet has stepped up in the shadows as the RB2, delivering solid performances when called upon. Averaging 4.2 yards per carry and scoring eight touchdowns last season, Charbonnet showed he could step into a larger role if needed. Should Walker face further challenges with injuries, Charbonnet will be a vital part of keeping the Seahawks’ ground game strong.
As fans, we’re in for an exhilarating season watching these athletes rise to new challenges. The NFC West running backs prove that talent runs deep in this division, making each matchup a must-watch event. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or tracking your fantasy lineup, these players offer plenty of excitement and potential this season.
