5 NFL RBs who could have a breakthrough year in 2022 ft. Cam Akers and Tony Pollard
NFL running backs play a position that most would consider a revolving door. Many of them have extremely short careers in comparison to players in other positions. Their peaks are usually brief, sometimes lasting just a few seasons. The physical nature of being a running back and the constant beating they receive are some of the factors why it often happens this way.
While a running backs' production can fall off relatively quickly, they also have the ability to burst onto the scene and make a huge difference. Every NFL season features breakout running backs that elevate their play to new heights. Here are five who could potentially do so during the 2022 NFL season.
#1 - J.K. Dobbins
J.K. Dobbins posted a solid rookie year during the 2020 NFL season, averaging six yards per carry and rushing for 805 yards. This was despite only starting one game and being a part of the running backs committee for the Baltimore Ravens. He was set to take over as the starting running back for the 2021 season until an injury knocked him out for the entire year.
Looking forward to more of this from #Ravens RB JK Dobbins in 2021! https://t.co/2y47Vj7SJW
Dobbins is expected to be healthy for the 2022 season and is once again projected to be the lead running back for the Ravens. He could potentially have a huge year in their run-heavy offensive scheme, despite sharing carries with a deep roster.
#2 - Cam Akers
Cam Akers saw limited opportunities during his rookie season in 2020. But when given the opportunity to feature for a three-game stretch in the middle of the year, he rushed for over 300 yards. He followed that up with 272 total yards and two touchdowns across two postseason games.
Akers was injured for the majority of the 2021 NFL season, but made it back in time for the Los Angeles Rams' postseason run. He was a huge part of their Super Bowl winning efforts. He's healthy and locked in as the starting running back for 2022, so he appears set for a big year.