Can you believe it? 40 days until the 2025 NFL season begins! It always arrives quicker then we anticipate it too. To help countdown, here are my top 40 running backs and linebackers for 2025.

RB 40 – Nick Chubb

Nick Chubb is on a new team, with a new head coach (DeMeco Ryans), who has a defensive approach to the game. This paired with Joe Mixon and Dameon Pierce both not active for training camp, means an easier path for Chubb. He has the highest ceiling of any running back outside the top sixteen. Houston’s offensive line will be focused on protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud, but could also produce over 2,000 yards on the ground this season. Something they haven’t achieved since 2019.

The Texans are the only AFC South team that is not in transformation. The Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans are starting new quarterbacks, and the Jacksonville Jaguars have a new Head Coach. Chubb could be used to help finish out games with second half first downs. He should be in a heavy rotation with Mixon as the Texans look to keep both RBs fresh for a potential deep playoff run.

LB 40 – Quay Walker

Another player whom had injury concerns heading into this season, but has shown he is ready to go. Walker may have been supplanted by second year linebacker Edgerrin Cooper, but he has a vital for for the Green Bay Packers. Walker has 100 or more tackles in all three of his NFL seasons, and has done so despite missing 7 combined games. He also has 6.5 career sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 interception.

The Packers declined Walker’s fifth year option, and have stated they hope to extend him this season. Perhaps it happens, perhaps it does not. Either way he has a big payday to play for, be it with the Packers or elsewhere. His size (6′ 5″) allows him to cover bigger tight ends while still having the weight (241 pounds) to tackle in the box. Walker has a high ceiling and could finish much higher than #40. He also has a safe floor due to a high tackle volume, and big play ability.

Both Chubb and Walker are solid players to have on a fantasy football roster. Both have potential to be top 15 at their position, and both have a relatively safe floor for their ADP. Their upside means they are worth a reach, as they could be solid pieces to a championship roster.

Remember to check back tomorrow for #39 running back and linebacker.