Adrian Peterson considers himself the best running back in the NFL, and it’s hard to disagree with the Minnesota Vikings star. Peterson also thinks there’s a clear No. 2.
ESPN’s Ben Goessling notes Peterson said Seattle Seahawks standout Marshawn Lynch is “hands-down” the “second-best back in the league.”
“I remember coming out [of college] with him. We trained together in Arizona, and I knew he was going to be a force to be reckoned with. He’s ‘Beast Mode’ for a reason: He’s a physical runner. He plays fast. His lateral movement, cuts, his vision is top of the line.”
As fans, we love ranking players — and in many cases, arguing about the list. Does it really matter if Lynch is No. 2 or simply top five? No, of course not — unless you’re an avid Lynch supporter or opponent.
The point is Peterson’s comment can be taken three ways.
Considering Lynch’s history and physical skills, it makes perfect sense. Prior to 2015, he’d accrued four consecutive 1,200-plus-yard seasons with at least 10 touchdowns in each year. Injuries and a shoddy offensive line contributed to Lynch’s disappointing year, but he’s talented enough to bounce back.
On the other hand, you can take that “what have you done for me lately” approach. Lynch only managed 417 yards and three touchdowns in 2015, finishing 49th in the league. That’s nowhere near second-best back.
Lastly, you can appreciate Peterson’s opinion. At the top of the league’s hierarchy — again, depending on your viewpoint — are Peterson, Lynch, Jamaal Charles, Matt Forte, Todd Gurley, LeSean McCoy, Doug Martin and perhaps a few others.
Regardless of any hypothetical ranking, though, there certainly aren’t many running backs a franchise would take over Beast Mode.