NFL Running Back Rankings for 2021: Derrick Henry stiff-arms competition

Derrick Henry. Mandatory Credit: USA Today Sports/Syndication: The Tennessean
Derrick Henry. Mandatory Credit: USA Today Sports/Syndication: The Tennessean /
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2021 NFL
D’Andre Swift, Detroit Lions (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

20. D’Andre Swift, Detroit Lions

One of the best rookies in the 2020 Draft Class, D’Andre Swift went to the Detroit Lions at No. 35 overall. He probably should have been the featured back but in Detroit, they went with veteran Adrian Peterson for the majority of the season.

Swift still got 114 carries and was impressive with 521 yards and eight touchdowns but he also showed off his receiving skills by grabbing 46 receptions for 357 yards and two more touchdowns.

Now he’s set for more in 2021 and he proved he can get the job done. The only reason he might not have the big numbers he’s capable of would be the lack of talent around him in Detroit but he’s a capable player.

19. J.K. Dobbins, Baltimore Ravens

Another running back taken in the 2020 NFL Draft was J.K. Dobbins who was the second back for the Baltimore Ravens as a rookie. He finished with 805 yards and nine touchdowns, showing he was more than capable of taking the lead role.

Now in 2021, he could be ready for an expanded role with Mark Ingram gone — but still has to contend with Gus Edwards who is no slouch. Overall, this is a top-five running team and in time, Dobbins could prove to be there by himself.