It Was Quite a Season for Former Alabama Running Backs in the NFL: A Legacy of Dominance
The University of Alabama continues to live up to its reputation as a powerhouse for developing elite talent—especially at the running back position. The 2024-2025 NFL season was yet another shining example of how former Crimson Tide running backs are not just surviving but thriving on football’s biggest stage. From breakout performances to consistent dominance, these backs put on a show all year long.
1. Derrick Henry – Tennessee Titans (now Baltimore Ravens)
One of the most physically imposing backs in NFL history, Derrick Henry continued to be a force this past season, splitting time between the Titans and finishing strong with the Baltimore Ravens after a midseason move. Known for his rare combination of size, speed, and bruising power, Henry racked up over 1,200 total yards and double-digit touchdowns, proving he’s still one of the most feared runners in the league.
Skillset: Power runner, excellent vision, punishing stiff-arm, elite breakaway speed for his size.
2. Josh Jacobs – Las Vegas Raiders (now Green Bay Packers)
After leading the NFL in rushing yards in 2022, Josh Jacobs continued to showcase his versatility in 2024. Although limited early in the season by injury with the Raiders, his trade to the Green Bay Packers revitalized his production. Jacobs is a north-south runner with great balance, and he became a crucial piece of Green Bay’s playoff push.
Skillset: Balanced back with low center of gravity, tough yards after contact, reliable hands in the passing game.
3. Najee Harris – Pittsburgh Steelers
Najee Harris had another solid year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, reaching the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the third straight season. Harris is known for his agility and ability to catch passes out of the backfield, often used as a safety valve for young quarterbacks like Kenny Pickett and later Russell Wilson.
Skillset: All-purpose back, patient runner, elite in pass protection, soft hands.
4. Brian Robinson Jr. – Washington Commanders
In just his second NFL season, Brian Robinson Jr. made significant strides as the Commanders’ feature back. He rushed for over 900 yards and added nearly 400 yards receiving, showing marked improvement as a dual-threat option. He was one of the few bright spots in a struggling Washington offense, which rotated between quarterbacks Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett.
Skillset: Powerful between-the-tackles runner, strong pass catcher, excellent contact balance.
5. Damien Harris – Buffalo Bills (retired mid-season)
Damien Harris, who had moments of success in New England, signed with the Buffalo Bills for the 2024 season. Unfortunately, a neck injury early in the year forced him into an early retirement. Though his season was cut short, Harris remains respected for his tough, hard-nosed style of play.
Skillset: Red zone finisher, decisive runner, team-first mentality.
6. Kenyan Drake – Free Agent
A journeyman back, Kenyan Drake bounced around the league again this year, spending brief stints with teams like the Colts and Packers. Though no longer a feature back, Drake brings veteran presence and still flashes speed and receiving ability when called upon.
Skillset: Home-run threat, dangerous in open space, reliable third-down back.
7. Jahmyr Gibbs – Detroit Lions (Rising Star)
Perhaps the biggest story of the season from Alabama’s running back alumni was Jahmyr Gibbs. The 2023 first-round pick burst onto the scene for the Detroit Lions, forming a dynamic duo with David Montgomery. Gibbs finished with over 1,500 all-purpose yards and 10+ touchdowns, electrifying fans with his speed and shiftiness. He played a major role in Detroit’s NFC Championship run.
Skillset: Elite acceleration, dangerous receiver, change-of-direction wizard, natural playmaker.
Quarterbacks Behind the Scenes
These backs worked behind a wide range of quarterbacks this season, from young talents to proven vets:
Lamar Jackson (Ravens)– Paired with Derrick Henry late in the season
Jordan Love (Packers) Steady hand for Jacobs’ late-season run
Russell Wilson & Kenny Pickett (Steelers) Worked with Harris
Jared Goff (Lions) – Delivered pinpoint passes to Gibbs out of the backfield
Sam Howell & Jacoby Brissett (Commanders) – Guided Brian Robinson’s team
Conclusion: BuiltByBama Legacy Continues
Whether it’s bulldozing defenders, sprinting past secondaries, or catching clutch passes, Alabama’s former running backs are making major waves in the NFL. The combination of preparation, pedigree, and performance continues to validate the program’s slogan:
Roll Tide Roll‼
BuiltByBama #Alabama #CrimsonTide #RollTide #DeBoer
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