A friend of mine recently asked me how big are NFL running backs. While the sizes may vary per team, every team has one thing in common – they require physicality to succeed. Let me tell you why.
To start off, these players are some of the strongest and fastest players on the team. They have to use their power to run the ball and their speed to beat defenders to the edge. But, getting through the line of scrimmage is only part of the game. The other is their size.
Running backs in the NFL are built like tanks. They are big enough to work through the tackles and small enough to fit through the cracks. Most average between 5’10 and 6’1 in height. These guys are usually muscular and well-trained, weighing anywhere from 200 to 230 pounds.
While size is an important factor, it is not the only one. The kind of skill level these guys are able to reach is amazing. Just watch any pro running back and you’ll get what I’m talking about. They have to be able to weave through defensive linemen, outrun defenders, and have the power to make those crucial runs in the fourth quarter.
Not to mention, they have to be able to recognize and read holes in the defensive line. They have to know when to cut to the outside or inside and when to take on a defender head-on. It’s a lot more complicated than it looks.
Last, but not least, staying healthy is key for running backs. Those big hits can take a toll on their bodies. If a guy spends too much time on the sidelines, his team won’t make up the difference. They need him to be tough and durable.
So, from size, skill, intelligence, and durability, NFL running backs are the complete package. When it comes to running the ball, they are the best of the best.
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Their agility and underrated strength plays a major role in the overall game. Sure, they are some of the biggest guys on the field, but they also have the most agility to make smooth cuts and jukes. This is essential in any NFL offense, as these fancy moves can sometimes be the difference between success and failure.
Not to mention, they play one of the most physical positions in the game. It’s no wonder they make the NFL the toughest contact sport around. They usually take the brunt of the force every game, and the quality of these guys truly stands out.
Sure, they have to deal with an immense amount of contact and get hit as often as possible. But, tackling is part of the job and sometimes, the play can require a little bit of contact, too. To be able to handle the heat is essential to being a successful running back in the NFL.
At the same time, their job is to score or set up for scores. In today’s NFL, that can be a tall order. As defenses continue to tighten up, it is not always easy to beat them to the end zone. This is where running backs must also have a certain level of intuition.
They have to be able to identify the best option on any given play. Whether it is taking it himself, throwing it away, or setting up a teammate, they need to be able to make the best decision at the right moment.
Not to mention, they also have to be incredibly effective pass-catchers. Teams rely on running backs to move the ball downfield and that often involves passing plays. That means they must be able to catch and have soft hands.
Overall, NFL running backs are some of the most impressive athletes you will ever see. With their size, strength, power, agility, and endurance, they can be an unstoppable force on the field. When used effectively, they can be the difference between victory and defeat.