Best NFL Running Backs Entering December 2025

The 2025 NFL season has been defined by instability at the quarterback position, mounting injuries, and offensive inconsistency across the league. As a result, several teams have leaned heavily on their running backs to keep their playoff hopes alive. Through three quarters of the season, a clear tier of elite rushers has emerged: players who have carried offenses regardless of circumstances.

While this year's rookie running backs have shown flashes, durability concerns and limited roles have kept them out of the conversation. Instead, it has been a mix of established veterans and ascending stars who have set the standard at the position in 2025.

Jonathan Taylor Sets the Pace

Best NFL Running Backs Entering December 2025

Jonathan Taylor has been the NFL's most dominant running back this season. The Indianapolis Colts star leads the league in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, yards per game, and total scrimmage touchdowns. He also ranks first in rushing yards after contact, highlighting his ability to produce without ideal blocking.

With Indianapolis dealing with instability under center, Taylor has become the focal point of the offense. His combination of power, vision, and durability continues to separate him from the rest of the league and has placed him firmly at the top of the running back hierarchy.

Bijan Robinson Carries Atlanta's Offense

Despite persistent struggles across Atlanta's offense, Bijan Robinson has delivered elite production. Robinson accounts for nearly 40 percent of the Falcons' total offense and remains one of the most efficient dual-threat backs in the league.

Whether running between the tackles or operating as a receiver, Robinson has consistently created offense on his own. Even as Atlanta has failed to establish consistency elsewhere, Robinson's performance has remained among the league's best.

Christian McCaffrey Remains the NFL's Most Complete Back

Christian McCaffrey continues to define versatility at the running back position. While he trails Taylor in pure rushing volume, his overall offensive impact remains unmatched. McCaffrey is once again on pace to approach 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards, a feat few players in league history have achieved.

San Francisco's offense continues to run through McCaffrey, particularly in high-leverage situations. As the 49ers push for NFC West positioning, his importance to their success cannot be overstated.

James Cook Breaks Through in Buffalo

The Buffalo Bills have made a clear commitment to James Cook in 2025, and the results have been immediate. Cook has assumed a career-high workload and emerged as the engine of the league's most productive rushing attack.

His consistency has provided balance to Buffalo's offense, allowing the Bills to control games on the ground. While ball security remains a concern, Cook's growth has positioned him as one of the most dependable backs in the NFL.

Jahmyr Gibbs Fuels Detroit's Playoff Push

Jahmyr Gibbs remains a catalyst for Detroit's offense. The Lions are at their best when Gibbs is heavily involved, and his ability to score from anywhere on the field has made him one of the league's most dangerous weapons.

With a challenging stretch run ahead, Detroit will rely on Gibbs' explosiveness and versatility as it attempts to secure playoff positioning and make a deep postseason run.