Nick Chubb is the best running back in the NFL according to Mina Kimes

While the NFL is a “passing league” according to almost everyone, the league also has a lot of interesting running backs including two with the Cleveland Browns. The pair of Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt, along with the Browns offensive line, is the backbone of a stellar offensive system Kevin Stefanski has put into place.

Chubb, the topic of contract extension talks since he can be a free agent at the end of the year, often doesn’t get the high-level praise that other backs do. When talking about the “best running back in the NFL” folks often point to the huge rushing numbers of Derrick Henry, the versatility of backs like Christian McCaffery and Alvin Kamara or a variety of other talented runners.

Mina Kimes of ESPN is one of the few to put her flag in the ground in regards to Chubb’s ranking:

The final part of this clip is the most telling. Kimes made her rankings based on who she would start a club from scratch with. Once again, Chubb’s ability to be the backbone of an offense is important and finally given high regard.

A lingering question for Cleveland will be related to his contract. Can the Browns pay Chubb like the “best running back in the NFL?” Will Chubb and his agent, along with pressure from the NFLPA, push to be paid like the “best running back in the NFL?” How does the presence of Hunt, which has kept Chubb’s stats down, impact negotiations?