Best running backs in 2026 NFL season

July 17, 2026, 3:28 p.m. ET

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (0) during mini camp at Meijer Performance Center in Allen Park on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.

After years of being dismissed, the running back position is back to being prominent in the NFL.

NFL teams are starting to run the ball more and that is because there are some incredibly talented players at the position.

It still becomes a quandary when making first-round fantasy football picks. Do you choose an RB or go with a wide receiver, who is likely to catch more than 1,000 yards and upward and plenty of touchdowns.

A look at 10 of the best options at running back for NFL teams and fantasy football teams.

10. TreyVeyon Henderson, New England PatriotsNew England Patriots running back Treveyon Henderson (32) warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium.Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins (10) runs with the ball during minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.Derrick Henry poses on the NFL Honors Red Carpet before Super Bowl LX at Palace of Fine Arts.7. Rico Dowdle, Pittsburgh SteelersPittsburgh Steelers running back Rico Dowdle (13) participates in OTA drills at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams (23) during organized team activities at Rams Practice Facility.5. Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ersSan Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) carries the ball as Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) defends.Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III (4) runs against Denver Broncos linebacker Jonah Elliss (52) and defensive end Eyioma Uwazurike (96).3. Bijan Robinson, Atlanta FalconsAtlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) runs with the ball on the field during Minicamp.Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) pulls in a pass Wednesday, June 10, 2026, during minicamp at Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center in Indianapolis.Jahmyr Gibbs #0 of the Detroit Lions works out at mandatory minicamp at Detroit Lions Meijer Performance Center on June 17, 2026 in Allen Park, Michigan.

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