RBs are Back! Analyzing the NFL’s Run-Heavy Revolution and Its Impact on the 2025 Season
The ground game is rumbling back to prominence in the NFL. After years of aerial assaults dominating the league, a shift is occurring. Teams are rediscovering the power of a strong running game, and the 2025 season promises to showcase this evolution in offensive strategy. Remember Super Bowl LIX? The Philadelphia Eagles, with Saquon Barkley leading the charge, bulldozed their way to victory, proving that a power running game is still a championship formula.
The Rise of the Run: A League-Wide Trend
The numbers don’t lie. In 2024, Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles led the league with 2,005 rushing yards. Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens followed closely behind with 1,921 yards. These aren’t just individual achievements; they reflect a broader trend of teams prioritizing the run. The Baltimore Ravens, in fact, led the league in team rushing yards with 3,189 yards between the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Several factors contribute to this resurgence. Defenses have become increasingly geared towards stopping the pass, often employing lighter boxes to maximize coverage. This creates opportunities for offensive lines to exploit favorable matchups and establish the run. Additionally, the rise of dual-threat quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson forces defenses to account for the quarterback’s rushing ability, further opening up running lanes for running backs.
Offensive Play-Calling Evolves
The shift towards a run-heavy approach is also evident in offensive play-calling. Coaches are increasingly incorporating run-pass option (RPO) plays, allowing quarterbacks to make real-time decisions based on defensive alignment. The pistol formation, blending elements of shotgun and single-back formations, is also gaining popularity, creating a more unpredictable and balanced attack.
Brian Callahan, head coach of the Tennessee Titans, has emphasized his commitment to calling offensive plays, highlighting the importance of a strong offensive identity. Even offensive masterminds like Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers are evolving their schemes, incorporating less play-action and focusing on deeper passing routes, which are often set up by a consistent running game. Ben Johnson, now head coach of the Chicago Bears, is known for his exceptional down-to-down play-calling and sequencing, suggesting a strategic approach to integrating the run into the Bears’ offense.
Key Players Driving the Revolution
The success of a run-heavy offense hinges on having talented running backs. Saquon Barkley’s dominant performance in 2024 exemplifies the impact a star running back can have. Derrick Henry’s presence in Baltimore adds another dimension to the Ravens’ already potent offense.
Looking ahead, the 2025 NFL Draft boasts a promising class of running back prospects. Ashton Jeanty from Boise State, Omarion Hampton from North Carolina, and TreVeyon Henderson from Ohio State are among the top names drawing attention from NFL scouts. Jeanty, in particular, has drawn comparisons to Alvin Kamara, lauded for his balance, footwork, and explosiveness. Kaleb Johnson from Iowa is another highly touted prospect, praised for his physicality and vision.
The Impact on the 2025 Season
The run-heavy revolution is poised to significantly impact the 2025 season. Teams with strong running games and offensive lines will have a distinct advantage, controlling the clock, wearing down defenses, and opening up opportunities in the passing game.
The Philadelphia Eagles, led by Saquon Barkley, are expected to be a dominant force in the NFC. The Baltimore Ravens, with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, will be a formidable opponent in the AFC. Other teams to watch include the Detroit Lions, known for their strong offensive line, and the Cleveland Browns, who are committed to establishing a physical running game.
However, the emphasis on running the ball also means teams need to invest in their offensive lines. As defenses adjust, the ability to win at the line of scrimmage will be crucial. Teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Arizona Cardinals, who have invested in their offensive lines, are well-positioned to capitalize on the run-heavy trend. The Tennessee Titans, on the other hand, need to improve their offensive line play after a disappointing 2024 season.
Rule Changes and the Running Game
The NFL is constantly evolving, and recent rule changes could further influence the running game. The league has approved adjustments to the kickoff rules, designed to promote more returns. While seemingly unrelated, increased kickoff returns could lead to better field position, giving teams with strong running games shorter fields to work with.
The Future of the NFL: A Balanced Attack
While the run is making a comeback, it’s important to note that the NFL is still a passing league. The most successful teams in 2025 will be those that can strike a balance between the run and the pass, keeping defenses guessing and exploiting their weaknesses. Teams like the Buffalo Bills, led by Josh Allen, and the Kansas City Chiefs, with Patrick Mahomes, will continue to be offensive powerhouses due to their ability to effectively pass and run the ball.
The “RBs are Back!” revolution is not about abandoning the passing game; it’s about creating a more balanced and dynamic offensive landscape. As the 2025 season approaches, expect to see more teams embracing the power of the run, leading to a more exciting and competitive NFL.