Sportsnaut
The AFC East is home to some of the best talent in the backfield. From dynamic duos to question marks, each team’s running back room tells a different story. Here’s how the division’s rushing attacks stack up heading into the 2025 season.
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The lead back on one of the league’s most prolific offenses, James Cook has put together back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons for the Buffalo Bills. He’s not the most physical runner, but his receiving and explosive playmaking ability fit perfectly in the team’s offensive scheme. If he repeats that performance this upcoming season, it wouldn’t be a surprise.
Ray Davis adds reliability in short-yard situations and in the red zone and is a solid RB2 option for Buffalo. The Bills once again will have a reliable backfield to fuel their high-powered offense.
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Breece Hall is one of the most talented backs in the league, but has yet to see the immense success many expected in the NFL. Falling short of 1,000 yards each of the past two seasons, there’s pressure on Hall to perform well this year. But his home-run speed is undeniable. With Aaron Rodgers gone, the New York Jets offense should operate more efficiently and create better opportunities for Hall. Look for Breece to get back on track this season.
Braelon Allen provides a different dimension for the Jets as he is more of a bruising threat. At only 21 years of age, Allen could very well develop into a great back for the Jets. This is an exciting duo for Jets fans to watch.
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De’Von Achane has emerged as a legitimate RB1 for the Miami Dolphins. He saw immense success last season, rushing for over 900 yards and accumulating nearly 600 receiving yards. Achane can flip the field in the blink of an eye, and when healthy, he’s one of the most efficient runners in the league.
We haven’t seen much of RB2 Jaylen Wright, as he had very limited touches last season. But he does seem to offer a more physical complement to Achane. Wright averaged only 3.7 yards per carry, so he will look to improve on his efficiency.
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Rhamondre Stevenson is a strong, balanced runner, but has struggled with injuries and efficiency behind a shaky New England Patriots line. He also doesn’t quite possess that explosive ability that those ranked ahead do. While he’s a talented back, it wouldn’t be shocking if he splits carries with the rookie out of Ohio State, TreVeyon Henderson.
Drafted by the Patriots in the second round, Henderson has a level of...
