A Look at the Top 5 Running Backs in the NFL by Rushing Yards

The NFL season is 3/4 of the way over. It has been a very good season up til this point. Several players are having a career year. Running back is no exception. The top 5 players by rushing yards are all superb running backs. Let's look at each player's statistics.

Chris Johnson

Chris Johnson is currently the NFL's leading rushing. He is blessed with explosive speed. Once he gets to the second level of defenders, most of the time it will be a touchdown. He has rushed for over 1,200 yards in each of his first two NFL seasons. With four games left to play this season, he has rushed for 1,509 yards. He also has 9 rushing touchdowns so far. That is among the best in the league. His future looks to be among the brightest of any player that has played in the NFL three seasons or less.

Steven Jackson

Steven Jackson is a very good running back. He can hurt your defense in a variety of ways. He has had a long career in the NFL. With four games to play this season, he has rushed for 1,232 yards. He also has 4 rushing touchdowns so far this season. With over 6,500 rushing yards in 5 3/4 seasons, Steven Jackson has been a force on offense.

Adrian Peterson

Adrian Peterson is one of the most well-rounded running backs in the NFL. After playing only 2 3/4 seasons, he already has 4,204 yards rushing. So far this season, he has rushed for 1,103 yards. He also has 12 rushing touchdowns, which is among the best in the NFL. He is one of the young stars of the NFL, and if previous seasons are any indication, will have a great career.

Maurice Jones-Drew

Maurice Jones-Drew is one of the most versatile players in the NFL. He can hurt your team in so many ways. This is his first season as a full time starter. Although he was a backup his first three seasons in the NFL, he has still managed 3,610 yards over 3 3/4 seasons. So far this season, he has rushed for 1,077 yards. He also has 13 rushing touchdowns, which leads the NFL.

Thomas Jones

Thomas Jones is a very powerful running back. Over 9 3/4 seasons, he has rushed for 8,883 yards. So far this season, he has rushed for 1,068 yards. He also has 9 rushing touchdowns. He has been very steady over his career. Coaches and fans can always count on Thomas Jones to pound out the tough yard.
//www.nfl.com