Christian McCaffrey, Breece Hall, Chubb Lead Top 10 NFL RB Rankings by Coaches, Execs

San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey was voted as the top running back in the NFL entering the 2024 season.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler conducted a survey of nearly 80 league executives, coaches and scouts to rank the 10 best running backs in the league. McCaffrey earned the top spot, while New York Jets tailback Breece Hall was No. 2 on the list.

"He does everything exceptionally," a veteran NFL offensive coach said about McCaffrey, per Fowler. "Explosiveness, vision, technique, versatility, great teammate, hardest worker, dedicated in the offseason. The only thing holding him back was when he was hurt. But he's exactly how you would draw up a football player."

Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb and new Philadelphia Eagles tailback Saquon Barkley earned the next two spots on the ranking, while Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts rounded out the top five.

McCaffrey earned the first Offensive Player of the Year award of his career in 2023, accounting for 2,023 total yards from scrimmage. He concluded a streak of 17 consecutive games with a touchdown in Week 8, tying an NFL record.

McCaffrey also racked up 268 rushing yards and 152 receiving yards in three playoff games, helping the 49ers make a Super Bowl appearance.

Hall is poised for a breakout season with Aaron Rodgers back under center, as he recorded 994 rush yards in 2023. The former second-round pick is also a threat as a receiver, hauling in 76 receptions for 591 yards and four touchdowns.

"Natural rusher with acceleration through the hole," a high-ranking NFL official said about Hall, via Fowler. "He's got power and can create his own shot by making someone miss."

Chubb held the No. 1 ranking among league personnel heading into the 2023 season, although a severe knee injury in Week 2 ended his year. He appeared to be on the verge of his fifth straight Pro Bowl campaign before the injury, racking up 170 yards on 28 carries.

As the Browns attempt to build on their 11-6 record in 2023, a bounce-back season from Chubb could help them make consecutive playoff appearances for the first time since 1989.