Maurice Jones-Drew was regarded as one of the better running backs of his generation during his time as a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Now an analyst/host for NFL Network, Jones-Drew uses his experience as an NFL running back to analyze the current running back landscape of the league. Jones-Drew seems to be impressed by Buffalo Bills running back James Cook and Philadelphia Eagles’ D’Andre Swift.
Jones-Drew has both Cook and Swift ranked within the top five of his running back index. Both players have gotten off to fast starts to the 2023 season, so it is not surprising to see them earn this type of praise.
Swift and Cook rank second and third respectively in the NFL in rushing yards thus far through three games. Additionally, both are averaging more than six yards per carry, a very healthy number compared to the league average in 2022 (4.5). They have looked like two of the best running backs in the NFL this year on two of the most high-powered offenses in the NFL.
With so many talented players who play the running back position, it can be tough to narrow a list down and rank accordingly. While some people may be reluctant to put Swift and Cook this high on their respective lists because of the talent pool at the position, their play has supported Jones-Drew’s decision to place them as highly as he has on his personal running back index.
