CINCINNATI — Maurice Jones-Drew, former NFL running back and current analyst for NFL.com, recently released his rankings of starting running backs for the 2024 NFL season, and the Cincinnati Bengals’ Zack Moss found himself at the lower end of the spectrum, ranked No. 31 out of 32. This placement has sparked considerable discussion among fans and analysts alike, particularly as Moss enters a new phase of his career with the Bengals.
Jones-Drew’s rankings are a reflection of various factors, including past performance, potential impact, and team dynamics. Moss, who set career highs last season with 210 touches, 986 scrimmage yards, and seven touchdowns over 14 games with the Indianapolis Colts, is poised to take on a prominent role with his new team. His performance was notably solid as he filled in for Jonathan Taylor, who was frequently sidelined due to injuries.
In his analysis, Jones-Drew acknowledged Moss’s achievements with the Colts and expressed that Moss now has a significant opportunity to establish himself as a primary running back, or RB1, with the Bengals. However, he also highlighted that the Bengals’ offensive strategy is heavily centered around their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, and the passing game. This focus on the aerial attack could potentially limit Moss’s usage and impact on the field.
Jones-Drew’s rankings, notably, did not take projected volume into account, which could explain why Moss is positioned lower than some might expect. Players like Jonathan Brooks, Austin Ekeler, and Ezekiel Elliott—who are ranked higher—are anticipated to have more substantial roles within their respective teams, influencing their higher placement on the list.
Despite the lower ranking, Moss has the opportunity to defy expectations this season. The Bengals’ offensive scheme could evolve to incorporate more running plays, or Moss could demonstrate a level of performance that challenges Jones-Drew’s assessment. The upcoming season will be crucial for Moss as he aims to solidify his role and prove his capability as a top-tier running back.
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As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, all eyes will be on Zack Moss to see how he navigates this new chapter with the Bengals and whether he can leverage his opportunity to surpass expectations and reshape his standing among the league’s running backs.