AFC West Position Rankings: Running Backs

Today, we continue our series ranking the AFC West by position with the running back position (see our recent QB rankings here). It has been an arduous season for running backs as several have failed to secure long-term contracts including AFC West stars Josh Jacobs and Austin Ekeler.

assumingWhile there are continuous questions regarding some of the players at this position in the AFC West, we will be ranking them with the assumption that they are all playing and healthy.

Without further ado, here are the AFC West's running back rankings.

1. Los Angeles Chargers: Austin Ekeler, Joshua Kelley,

Other running backs: Isaiah Spiller, Larry Rountree III, Elijah Dotson, Tyler Hoosman

The Chargers are chalked full of offensive talent. While they seem to always fall short, the hype train is always in full motion for them due to their tremendous talents. At running back, they have one of the very best in the business in Austin Ekeler. Ekeler is a tremendous asset to any offense. With great hands and a fast first step, he can single-handedly wreck a defensive game plan.

he requested earlier in the offseason, it appears While Ekeler has not received the compensation that he asked for earlier in the offseason, it appears as though he is not alone. The Chargers will likely still use him in every aspect of their gameplan and we expect him to have another big year.

PRODUCTION IN 2022:

Austin Ekeler: 204 rushes, 915 yards, 4.5 yards/carry, 13 rushing TDs, 107 receptions, 722 receiving yards, 5 receiving TDs
Other RBs: 136 rushes, 453 yards, 3.3 yards/carry, 2 rushing TDs, 28 receptions, 181 receiving yards

PROJECTIONS FOR 2023:

Austin Ekeler: 289 rushes, 1,278 yards, 4.4 yards/carry, 16 rushing TDs, 74 receptions, 691 receiving yards, 2 receiving TDs
Other RBs: 128 rushes, 544 yards, 4.2 yards/carry, 3 rushing TDs, 22 receptions, 173 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD