Atop the pack: Cleveland Browns running backs leading the NFL in current ranking

The Cleveland Browns were recently ranked the No. 1 running back unit in the NFL thanks to a roster that includes Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt, and D’Ernest Johnson

Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently came out with their rankings of NFL teams in areas like their running backs.

They ranked the Cleveland Browns as the best in the league and gave them an elite status for this upcoming 2022 season.

In describing the group of Browns backs PFF said the following:

"“Nick Chubb is arguably the best pure runner in the NFL. Over the last four seasons, Chubb ranks first among all qualifying running backs in PFF rushing grade (93.1), yards after contact per rushing attempt (4.1) and forced missed tackles per rushing attempt (0.25). Add in a second quality starting option such as Kareem Hunt behind him to go along with D’Ernest Johnson (90.6 PFF rushing grade in 2021) and the Browns have the most talented backfield in the league.”"

Cleveland’s three running backs Chubb, Hunt, and Johnson have all contributed immensely to their success over the past few seasons. Chubb has led the team in rushing yards. Hunt has been a nice counter punch to Chubb’s game and has been helpful in the past few seasons in the passing game as well. Johnson really came into his own this past year when he subbed in for both Chubb and Hunt when they were out due to injuries and Covid.

There’s no reason to believe this running back unit can’t expand on their success this season — and for good measure, PFF also ranked Chubb as the No. 2 running back in the NFL. He was listed behind Jonathon Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts.

Chubb has had three seasons where he’s run for over 1,000 yards. Chubb also climbing the rankings of Cleveland running backs in the history of the franchise. Right now, he’s ranked 6th overall.

Hunt was injured much of last season so if he can stay healthy, he’ll be back to giving his 110 percent effort on game days. Hunt’s ability to carry the ball 10-15 times a game and also catch a few passes every game makes him a very important piece to the Browns offense.

Johnson recently re-signed with the team and will continue to be a very valuable asset to the unit. He had one big game a year ago where he came in and produced on the big stage. It was on a Thursday Night Football against the Denver Broncos in late October. He ended up carrying the football 22 times for 146 yards and a touchdown. He stepped in several other games and helped the team out.

Cleveland also has other young players and running backs like Demetric Felton and newly drafted Jerome Ford from Cincinnati that will also help in the run game this season.

The run game is one of the biggest strengths of the Browns. Now they are getting the recognition they deserve. It should be fun Browns season ahead to enjoy the best running back unit in the NFL.