​The Arizona Cardinals have enhanced their running back corps, yet they still do not boast any of the NFL’s elite backs. ESPN conducted a survey featuring more than 70 executives, coaches, and scouts who were asked to vote for the best players at various positions. In the running back category, none of the Cardinals’ backs landed in the top 10 or even received an honorable mention.
This year, the Cardinals added rookie Jeremiyah Love, who was drafted third overall in the draft, and he figures to be a candidate for future consideration on this list. However, up to this point he has not demonstrated anything that would place him among the league’s top backs. In addition to Love, Arizona brought in Tyler Allgeier during the offseason. Allgeier is a solid complementary back capable of handling a larger workload if necessary. The Cardinals also brought back James Conner, who delivered consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons in 2023 and 2024, providing a reliable veteran presence in the backfield.
At the top of this year’s rankings is Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons, a player Cardinals fans would likely hope Love resembles in time. The question remains: can Love earn a spot on next year’s list? If he does, it would validate the team’s draft strategy and the potential impact of his development.
For more Cardinals and broader NFL analysis, you can tune in to Cards Wire’s Rise Up, See Red podcast with Jess Root and other contributors. The show is available on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts. This recap reflects coverage initially published on Cards Wire in a piece focusing on NFL running back rankings and the ongoing evolution of the Arizona Cardinals’ rushing attack, highlighting that while improvements have been made, the roster still lacks an elite back for the time being.