Evolving NFL Run Game: Which Teams and Players Will Dominate Fantasy Football in 2025?

The NFL is a constantly evolving landscape, and the run game is no exception. In 2024, the Philadelphia Eagles, led by Saquon Barkley, showcased a dominant ground attack, with Barkley topping the league in rushing yards with 2005 [9, 16, 21]. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, several teams and players are poised to make a significant impact on the fantasy football landscape through their rushing prowess.

Offensive Line Dominance: The Foundation of a Strong Run Game

A strong running game starts with a dominant offensive line. Several teams have invested heavily in their offensive lines, setting the stage for success in 2025.

Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles return four starters from 2024’s top-ranked offensive line, including Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson [1]. They’ve also added depth through free agency and the draft, ensuring continued dominance in the trenches [1].
Denver Broncos: The Broncos boast a strong offensive line anchored by Quinn Meinerz, considered one of the best right guards in the league [1].
Detroit Lions: After a strong finish to the 2024 season, the Lions’ offensive line is poised to continue its success in 2025. Their ability to create running lanes has been a key factor in their offensive production [6].
Buffalo Bills: The Bills have invested in their offensive line, with Dion Dawkins and O’Cyrus Torrence leading the way [2]. Their commitment to the run game is evident in their offensive philosophy [14].

The Running Back Landscape: Established Stars and Rising Talents

The running back position is always in flux, with established stars facing challenges from up-and-coming players. Here are some of the running backs expected to make a splash in fantasy football in 2025:

Saquon Barkley (Philadelphia Eagles): Coming off a dominant 2024 season, Barkley is poised to continue his success in Philadelphia. His explosiveness and versatility make him a top fantasy option [3, 12].
Derrick Henry (Baltimore Ravens): Even at 31, Henry remains a force to be reckoned with. He led the NFL in PFF rushing grade in 2024 and continues to display exceptional power and elusiveness [3].
Bijan Robinson (Atlanta Falcons): After a solid performance in 2024, Robinson is expected to take another step forward in 2025. His talent and the Falcons’ commitment to the run make him a high-upside fantasy pick [3, 4].
Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions): Gibbs is poised to take over as the primary back in Detroit. His explosiveness and receiving ability make him a dynamic threat in both standard and PPR formats [3, 12].
Josh Jacobs (Green Bay Packers): Jacobs had a strong first season with the Packers and is expected to continue producing at a high level in 2025. His volume and goal-line opportunities make him a valuable fantasy asset [3, 12].
Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Irving is projected to be the starting running back for the Buccaneers, offering significant fantasy potential [3, 12].
RJ Harvey (Denver Broncos): Harvey is a rookie to watch in Denver. His explosiveness and versatility could lead to a significant role in the Broncos’ offense [5].
TreVeyon Henderson (New England Patriots): Henderson’s situation in New England is intriguing. With Rhamondre Stevenson’s future uncertain, Henderson could emerge as the lead back [5].
Omarion Hampton (Los Angeles Chargers): The Chargers’ selection of Hampton in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft signals their commitment to the run. While Najee Harris may start the season as the lead back, Hampton is expected to take over as the season progresses [4, 30].

Evolving Offensive Schemes: Embracing Versatility and Innovation

Offensive schemes are constantly evolving, with teams seeking new ways to gain an edge. In 2025, expect to see the following trends:

Split-Back Gun Runs: The use of split-back formations in shotgun is expanding, offering versatility and deception in the run game [8].
Outside Zone Runs: Teams are increasingly utilizing outside zone runs to exploit defenses and create opportunities for explosive plays [8].
Enhancing Checkdowns and Escort Screens: Offenses are focusing on improving their short passing game to provide quarterbacks with easy options and extend drives [8].
Straight Dropback Passing: A resurgence of straight dropback passing from under center is expected, offering a change of pace from the pass-centric nature of modern offenses [10].
Motion in the Run Game: Smart use of motion forces defenses to communicate and adjust on the fly, creating opportunities for the offense [14].

Coaching Changes and Their Impact

Coaching changes can significantly impact a team’s offensive philosophy and, consequently, their running game. Here are some notable coaching changes to watch in 2025:

Ben Johnson (Chicago Bears): Johnson’s arrival in Chicago is expected to revitalize the Bears’ offense. His success in Detroit suggests a more dynamic and efficient attack [7, 23].
Brian Schottenheimer (Dallas Cowboys): Schottenheimer’s promotion to head coach in Dallas signals a commitment to revamping the running game [7].
Mike Vrabel (New England Patriots): Vrabel’s hiring in New England could lead to a more balanced offensive approach, with an emphasis on the run [7, 23].
Liam Coen (Jacksonville Jaguars): Coen’s arrival in Jacksonville could unlock Trevor Lawrence’s potential and create a more explosive offense [11].

Rule Changes and Their Influence

The NFL is constantly tweaking its rules, and these changes can have a ripple effect on the game. In 2025, several rule changes could impact the run game:

Touchbacks to the 35-Yard Line: Moving touchbacks to the 35-yard line is aimed at encouraging more kick returns, potentially leading to more opportunities for explosive plays [32].
Onside Kicks in Any Quarter: Allowing teams to declare onside kicks at any point in the game could lead to more aggressive strategies and unexpected changes in momentum [32].

Fantasy Football Implications

As the NFL evolves, so too must fantasy football strategies. In 2025, prioritize running backs who:

Run behind strong offensive lines: Target backs who have the benefit of running behind dominant offensive lines like the Eagles, Broncos and Lions [1, 6].
Are involved in the passing game: Running backs who can catch passes out of the backfield are more valuable in PPR formats [3, 12].
Have goal-line opportunities: Look for backs who are likely to get the bulk of the carries inside the 5-yard line [12].
Are in innovative offenses: Target backs in offenses that utilize creative schemes and are willing to adapt to the strengths of their players [8, 14].

By understanding the evolving landscape of the NFL run game, fantasy football players can gain a competitive edge and draft a team that is poised for success in 2025.