Just to set the stage, this might be the best running back class since 2017. That 2017 class featured Christian McCaffrey, Joe Mixon, Leonard Fournette, Dalvin Cook, Alvin Kamara – and that’s just in the first three rounds. There were difference-makers taken throughout the draft, and this 2023 batch has just as many possible professionals. Who tops the 2023 rookie running back rankings, and where do they fit in at the next level?
2023 Rookie Running Back Rankings, Ideal Landing Spots
1. Bijan Robinson
For the nerds out there saying running backs don’t matter, Bijan Robinson isn’t just a running back. He is an offensive identity. He is a blend of Captain America and young Ezekiel Elliot. Robinson broke the record for broken tackles measured by PFF. He has the size, speed, measurables, immeasurables, hands, hips, short area quickness, vision, pass protection and vibes required to play the position. There’s nothing else to say about Bijan that hasn’t been said, other than the fact he has his own mustard line.
Ceiling: Barry Sanders light
Floor: Ricky Williams without problems
Team Fits: All of them. Would be the best running back on 28 or 29 NFL teams immediately.
Bijan Robinson has been considered “above average at football”
High praise ahead of the #NFLDraft2023
pic.twitter.com/vQ8F6j8bPi— FF Mike Kash (@FFMikeKash) April 9, 2023
Bijan Robinson NFL Draft Profile
2. Zach Charbonnet
There is just something that feels like a throwback in Zach Charbonnet’s game. Big, strong, runs like the linebacker said something mean to his mom before the play, Charbonnet is the whole package. When you mix in that he has solid catching ability and just enough breakaway speed to be dangerous, Charbonnet is looking like the number two running back in a star-studded group.
Ceiling: Demarco Murray
Floor: James Conner
Team Fits: Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints
Zach Charbonnet NFL Draft Profile
3. Jahmyr Gibbs
Charbonnet is a hammer. Gibbs is a scalpel. His ability to manipulate the defense when route running, catch and keep his momentum, and then blaze with his sub-4.4 speed is impressive. Gibbs’ size is a smidge concerning, but he makes up for it with some top-percentage speed. Gibbs transferred from Georgia Tech to Alabama for his final season and still managed to lead the Crimson Tide in both rushing yards and receptions.
Ceiling: Jamaal Charles
Floor: C.J. Spiller
Team Fits: Dallas Cowboys, Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs
Jahmyr Gibbs NFL Draft Profile
4. Tank Bigsby
This is not a hyperbole, Bigsby was the Auburn offense in 2022. He is right on the fringe of having the size to be a three-down back in the NFL, but those that attended the 2023 NFL Combine reported Tank earned his nickname. The guy carries his weight in the right spots, can catch the ball effectively, and was the lone bright spot on an absolutely brutal Auburn team in 2022. He will be a steal for an NFL team whenever he is selected.
Ceiling: Joe Mixon
Floor: A.J. Dillon with smaller quads
Team Fits: Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers
5. Sean Tucker
This was the toughest spot to claim. The difference between running back five and running back twelve is almost indistinguishable in the 2023 rookie running back rankings. While Tucker skipped the Combine and his Pro Day, he did post a video of conducting some of the drills. If those numbers are real (which they probably aren’t) Tucker may be the Bo Jackson of our generation. Even without testing numbers, Tucker’s film is impressive. He has breakaway speed, dominated the Syracuse offense and breaks tackles at will.
Ceiling: Frank Gore but not immortal
Floor: Ty Johnson but faster
Team Fits: San Francisco 49ers, Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs
Honorable Mentions
6. Devon Achane
10. Kendre Miller
11. Deuce Vaughn
12. Tyjae Spears
13. Zach Evans
