newsweek
As NFL training camps heat up, teams are gearing up for the upcoming season, and the running back position is a key focus. The preseason kicks off with the Hall of Fame Game on August 6, followed by the rest of the first week's games starting August 13. With the regular season opener on September 9, analysts have been evaluating each team's roster, including the running back rooms in the AFC South.
The Tennessee Titans claim the number one spot, thanks to a deep and versatile backfield. Tony Pollard has been a consistent performer, racking up four straight 1,000-yard seasons, including two with the Titans. He also contributes as a receiver, typically adding 30 catches and 250-300 yards. Tyjae Spears offers a dynamic change of pace, though he's more of a pass-catcher than a pure runner. Michael Carter provides solid depth, and rookie Nicholas Singleton, who rushed for over 1,000 yards twice at Penn State, is a promising prospect for the future.
Key Analysis
The Houston Texans rank second, having traded for David Montgomery in the offseason. Montgomery, who would have been the Lions' starter if not for Jahmyr Gibbs, has been productive, with 1,015 rushing yards in his first year with Detroit and solid numbers since. Woody Marks emerged as a reliable option last year when Joe Mixon was injured, and Jawhar Jordan, a former 1,000-yard rusher at Louisville, is a player to watch.
The Indianapolis Colts sit third, despite having the division's best individual back in Jonathan Taylor. Taylor has posted back-to-back 1,400-yard seasons and tied his career high with 18 touchdowns last year, also setting personal bests in receptions and receiving yards. However, the lack of proven depth behind him is a concern, as D.J. Giddens and Ulysses Bentley IV have combined for just 27 carries and 97 yards in their careers.
The Jacksonville Jaguars bring up the rear, and critics may be right that letting Travis Etienne go was a mistake. Bhayshul Tuten showed promise but has a limited sample size, while Chris Rodriguez Jr. had a career-best year with 500 yards and six touchdowns. LeQuint Allen Jr. adds depth but has yet to make a significant impact.
Originally reported by newsweek.