The rushing yards leaders of the 2021 NFL season continue to sort themselves out entering Week 16. While the leader is running away with the competition, the other contenders are battling for position. Consistency will be key down the stretch in order to determine the final standing. As it stands, prior to Week 16, these are the current leaders in rushing yards.
NFL rushing yards leaders ahead of Week 16
#5 - Derrick Henry, Tennessee Titans - 937 rushing yards
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Derrick Henry has only played in eight games this season but remains in the top five in rushing yards. No other player in the top 40 has played fewer games than Derrick Henry. He still leads the NFL in rushing yards per game and carries per game. The Tennessee Titans are hoping that he can return from his injury before the conclusion of the season.
Also read: When will Derrick Henry return? Latest on Titans RB's injury
#4 - Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns - 1,017 rushing yards
In addition to being ranked fourth in rushing yards this season, Nick Chubb is also ranked fourth in rushing yards per carry, among all running backs with a minimum of 100 carries. He is a powerful runner who breaks a ton of tackles and is the featured weapon in the Cleveland Browns' offense. He is the only player ranked in the top eight in rushing yards with fewer than 200 carries.
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NFL rushing yards leaders
Most rushing yards entering Week 16 of the 2021 NFL season
#3 - Dalvin Cook, Minnesota Vikings - 1,067 rushing yards
Dalvin Cook leads the entire NFC in rushing yards while also ranking third in the NFL. He has played in the fewest number of games of any player in the top ten in rushing yards. This is the third straight season Dalvin Cook has eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards for the Minnesota Vikings.
Also read: Is Dalvin Cook right in saying Kirk Cousins is the best QB in the NFL right now?
#2 - Joe Mixon, Cincinnati Bengals - 1,094 rushing yards
Joe Mixon is having the best statistical season of his entire career. He has already set a new career high in rushing touchdowns and is on pace to easily surpass his personal record for rushing yards in a season. He has been consistent and reliable, recording the second-most carries in the NFL this season and only giving away one fumble all year.
#1 - Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts - 1,518 rushing yards
If Jonathan Taylor doesn't play another game this season, he is still likely to win the rushing title. He is having an incredible season and figures to be in the mix for the Offensive Player of the Year award, as well as the NFL MVP award. He leads the NFL in carries, rushing yards, total yards, rushing touchdowns, total touchdowns and first downs gained.
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