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Making Sense of Every NFL Backfield After 2026 NFL Draft
NFL backfields are in flux. Running backs Travis Etienne Jr. and Kenneth Walker III signed with new teams. David Montgomery is the move. Jeremiyah Love will join the Arizona Cardinals' crowded backfield. Let's dive deeper into the changes.
Etienne and Walker signed the biggest deals among running backs in free agency and should take on featured roles with their new clubs.
The Detroit Lions broke up one of the league's best running duos. Jahmyr Gibbs has a new running mate.
At Notre Dame, Love stood out as a star prospect. The Arizona Cardinals didn't have a strong need at running back, but they clearly have a plan to feature him in their offense.
While tracking notable additions and departures across all 32 backfields in the NFL, we projected roles for running backs atop depth charts and rookies who will have opportunities to make an impact in the upcoming season.
Each team's running backs are listed with analysis regarding how coaches will deploy them.
Arizona Cardinals
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RBs: Jeremiyah Love (rookie), Tyler Allgeier, James Conner, Trey Benson, Bam Knight, Corey Kiner
The Arizona Cardinals made significant changes to their backfield while retaining talent from the previous year, making this a crowded group.
The Cardinals restructured James Conner's contract, signed Tyler Allgeier to a two-year deal, re-signed Bam Knight, who started in eight out of 12 games last season, and drafted Jeremiyah Love.
Head coach Mike LaFleur may operate a run-heavy offense, and Love will lead the ground attack. The Cardinals didn't draft him third to limit his upside in a committee.
With the addition of Love and Allgeier, Trey Benson could be the odd man out in a trade or outright release. He's a third-rounder from the 2024 draft who hasn't been able to carve out a steady role. Arizona will likely cut Corey Kiner before the upcoming season. Bam Knight needs to carve out a role on special teams to remain on the active roster.
Love's arrival shrinks everyone else's workload, though Conner's veteran presence is valuable, and he's still an effective short-yardage ball-carrier.
Atlanta Falcons
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RBs: Bijan Robinson, Brian Robinson, Tyler Goodson, Nathan Carter, Carlos Washington Jr., Cash Jones (rookie)
The Atlanta Falcons backfield will feature a pair of ball-carriers with the same initials and last name.
Bijan Robinson will undoubtedly retain the workhorse role. Though just like in recent years, he could lose goal-line carries to his backup. Atlanta replaced Tyler Allgeier with Brian Robinson, who's a 6'1", 225-pounder who scored eight rushing touchdowns in 2024. The bruising tailback will have a role on short conversion attempts and in the red zone.
Tyler Goodson and Nathan Carter will battle for the No. 3 running back position. They both have experience on special teams. So, one of the two must stand out in that unit to win the competition.
Carlos Washington Jr. is a 27-year-old who hasn't registered a carry in the regular season. Undrafted rookie Cash Jones is also a long shot to make the active roster.
Baltimore Ravens
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RBs: Derrick Henry, Justice Hill, Rasheen Ali, Adam Randall (rookie), Dontae McMillan (undrafted rookie)
The Baltimore Ravens have a new coaching staff in place, but Derrick Henry is still by far the best ball-carrier on the roster. The Ravens lost speedy running back Keaton Mitchell in free agency, so offensive coordinator Declan Doyle must figure out who can provide explosive plays in a complementary role.
As of now, the Ravens don't have a running back whose acceleration matches Mitchell's top-end speed.
That being said, Justice Hill has become a reliable third-down tailback. Over the last three seasons, he's caught 91 passes for 758 yards and five touchdowns. The eighth-year veteran will get most of the snaps behind Henry.
Keep an eye on Adam Randall. He's a 6'3", 232-pound rookie fifth-rounder who transitioned from wide receiver to running back. The Ravens will likely feature him in the passing game more than they do on the ground. The Clemson product could play a versatile role out of the backfield.
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Buffalo Bills
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RBs: James Cook III, Ray Davis, Ty Johnson, Frank Gore Jr., Desmond Reid (undrafted rookie)
The Buffalo Bills have a new coaching staff, though they promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach. The 36-year-old lead skipper will build on the foundation he set for the offense with three-time Pro Bowler James Cook III leading the backfield.
Entering his third season, Ray Davis will continue to grow in the primary backup position while eighth-year pro Ty Johnson contributes to the passing attack.
Over the previous two seasons, Johnson has hauled in 42 passes for 547 yards and five touchdowns. Davis made the 2025 All-Pro team as a special teamer.
Cook, Johnson and Davis are clearly the top three on the depth chart, which will make it difficult for Frank Gore Jr. and undrafted rookie Desmond Reid to earn spots on the active roster.
Carolina Panthers
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RBs: Chuba Hubbard, Jonathon Brooks, Trevor Etienne, AJ Dillon, Anthony Tyus III, Montrell Johnson Jr.
Despite a down year, Chuba Hubbard will move back into the lead role in the Carolina Panthers backfield following the departure of Rico Dowdle, who racked up a team-leading 1,076 rushing yards and six touchdowns on the ground last season.
Hubbard will have a chance to recapture his 2024 form when he recorded career highs in rushing yards (1,195) and touchdowns (11).
Dowdle's exit also creates opportunities for 2025 second-rounder Jonathon Brooks, if he's healthy, and Trevor Etienne, who's a natural pass-catcher out of the backfield.
Brooks tore his right ACL twice within 13 months between his time at Texas and the end of his rookie campaign. Head coach Dave Canales expects him to participate in the team's offseason program, but the third-year pro will have to knock off some rust and trust that his knee holds up in game action.
At 5'8", 198 pounds, Etienne is a smaller back whose workload may be limited to third downs. AJ Dillon brings veteran experience if Brooks has a slow ramp-up to a sizeable workload.
Chicago Bears
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RBs: D'Andre Swift, Kyle Monangai, Roschon Johnson, Brittain Brown, Deion Hankins, Coleman Bennett (undrafted rookie)
In 2025, D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai were one of the league's best running back duos.
Swift finished with a career-high nine rushing touchdowns. As a seventh-rounder out of Rutgers, Monangai worked his way into a sizeable role, leapfrogging Roschon Johnson on the depth chart.
Dating back to his time as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator, Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson has a track record of fielding highly productive ground attacks.
Swift and Monangai will be a dynamic pair again in 2026. They rushed for 1,870 yards and 14 touchdowns combined last season. The Bears' running back tandem could eclipse 2,000 rushing yards this year.
Johnson played 55 percent of the special teams snaps last season. He'll likely retain a role with that unit.
Cincinnati Bengals
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RBs: Chase Brown, Samaje Perine, Tahj Brooks, Gary Brightwell, Kendall Milton, Jamal Haynes (undrafted rookie), Kentrel Bullock (undrafted rookie)
The Cincinnati Bengals are in contract talks with Chase Brown, a fifth-round pick from the 2023 draft who's exceeding expectations. He has eclipsed 1,300 scrimmage yards in back-to-back seasons.
Assuming the Bengals work out a new deal with Brown, he'll continue to carry the majority of the workload in a three-down role.
Entering his age-31 term, Samaje Perine is a trustworthy No. 2 running back who can move the chains in short-yardage situations, pick up blitz assignments and reel in short passes.
Cincinnati added a couple of undrafted rookie running backs, Jamal Haynes and Kentrel Bullock.
If either of the two flashes during the offseason program, the Bengals may have Perine's successor as the primary backup. Bullock had a breakout senior year at South Alabama, rushing for 1,085 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Cleveland Browns
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RBs: Quinshon Judkins, Dylan Sampson, Raheim Sanders, Ahmani Marshall, Davon Booth (undrafted rookie), TJ Harden (undrafted rookie)
Quinshon Judkins dislocated his ankle and fractured his fibula late in the 2025 season. Yet he showed enough to retain the lead role out of the backfield with 827 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.
At 5'11", 221 pounds, Judkins is a stout tailback who can handle 15-20 carries per outing, but he lacks the speed to break away in space after the catch. Fellow 2025 draftee Dylan Sampson possesses the skill set to fill in on obvious passing third downs. He's a smaller, more elusive running back with some wiggle.
In 2025, Sampson caught 33 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns. He's likely to open the season as the No. 2 running back, while Raheim Sanders gets leftover early-down carries.
Undrafted rookies Davon Booth and TJ Harden must show out on special teams to make the roster. The latter is a more intriguing talent with three years of solid production at UCLA and SMU.
Dallas Cowboys
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RBs: Javonte Williams, Malik Davis, Jaydon Blue, Phil Mafah, Israel Abanikanda
At this time last offseason, many wondered if Jaydon Blue or Phil Mafah could earn decent roles as Javonte Williams looked to rebound from an underwhelming fourth season with the Denver Broncos.
In 2025, Williams ran away with the lead running back job, rushing for a career-high 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns. The Cowboys signed him to a three-year, $24 million extension, which solidifies his spot atop the depth chart for the foreseeable future.
Last year, Blue saw limited action. For now, he's behind Malik Davis on the depth chart. The latter played 52 percent of special teams snaps last year, which gives him the edge for the primary backup spot.
Mafah only suited up for one game in 2025. On the ground, he logged five carries for 18 yards and a touchdown and played just three snaps on special teams. The second-year pro will probably land on the practice squad.
Denver Broncos
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RBs: J.K. Dobbins, RJ Harvey, Jonah Coleman (rookie), Jaleel McLaughlin, Cody Schrader, Tyler Badie, Deuce Vaughn
According to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones, the Denver Broncos wanted to make a splash in the free-agent running back market, but they circled back to J.K. Dobbins, who led them with 772 rushing yards last season.
Dobbins is a decent lead ball-carrier, but he's missed more than four games in four out of six seasons. Also, the 27-year-old is limited in the passing game. In 2024, he caught 32 passes for 153 yards, both of which are single-season career highs.
The Broncos' backfield is shaping up to be a full-blown committee.
Remember, Denver selected RJ Harvey in the second round of last year's draft. He's a far more productive pass-catcher than Dobbins.
Denver selected Jonah Coleman in the fourth round of this year's draft. He's a natural pass-catcher who recorded 87 receptions for 838 yards and three touchdowns through four collegiate terms. Jaleel McLaughlin has been a reliable veteran in head coach Sean Payton's system.
Typically, Payton likes to utilize three or four running backs. Don't expect any of these tailbacks to claim a lion's share of the touches.
Detroit Lions
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RBs: Jahmyr Gibbs, Isiah Pacheco, Jacob Saylors, Sione Vaki, Jabari Small, Kye Robichaux
The Detroit Lions shook up their backfield. They traded David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, which broke up the Sonic and Knuckles connection he had with Jahmyr Gibbs. Detroit signed Isiah Pacheco to fill the No. 2 running back spot.
Pacheco will bring some of the physical elements that Montgomery provided, though he's not a threat to Gibbs' target share on passing downs. He's a downhill ball-carrier who had minimal impact as a pass-catcher in the Kansas City Chiefs offense over the last two years.
The Lions' No. 3 tailback could have a decent role. Pacheco hasn't played through a full 17-game slate since his 2022 rookie campaign. He's missed 17 outings over the last three years.
In 2025, Jacob Saylors served as the Lions' primary kick returner. He could compete with Sione Vaki for a backup role if Pacheco can't shake the injury bug. Detroit could also explore the veteran running back market before training camp.
Green Bay Packers
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RBs: Josh Jacobs, Chris Brooks, MarShawn Lloyd, Pierre Strong Jr., Damien Martinez
The Athletic's Matt Schneidman expected the Green Bay Packers to take a tailback in the middle rounds of the draft because he doesn't believe they have their No. 2 running back on the roster after losing Emanuel Wilson in free agency.
However, Green Bay didn't draft a running back. If the Packers don't trust MarShawn Lloyd because of his injury history or believe Chris Brooks can handle an expanded workload, they will likely add a veteran at the position late in the spring.
Lloyd has appeared in just one game in two seasons. Brooks has the skill set to handle third-down snaps. He's picked up blocking assignments and caught 24 passes for 160 yards over the last two seasons.
Jacobs has battled minor injuries. Entering his eighth season, he could miss more time as the game takes a toll on his body. Barring any further additions, Brooks and Lloyd will have opportunities to take on expanded roles.
Houston Texans
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RBs: David Montgomery, Woody Marks, Jawhar Jordan
The Houston Texans' running back pecking order is crystal clear. They traded for David Montgomery, who's a 230-pound physical ball-carrier who can also catch out of the backfield.
With the Detroit Lions, Montgomery took a backseat to dynamic tailback Jahmyr Gibbs. In Houston, he'll take on a lead role until Woody Marks is more efficient or consistently makes big plays on the ground.
As a rookie last season, Marks averaged just 3.6 yards per carry, though he rushed for 62 or more yards in seven of his 16 outings and scored two touchdowns in a 26-0 win over the Tennessee Titans.
Montgomery and Marks will work as a tandem, with the latter likely to see more targets in the passing game. Jawhar Jordan, who ran for 101 yards in his regular-season debut last season, could spell either of the Texans' top two tailbacks.
Indianapolis Colts
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RBs: Jonathan Taylor, DJ Giddens, Seth McGowan (rookie), Ulysses Bentley IV
Last season, Jonathan Taylor led the NFL in carries, which is the second time he's done that in his career. After leading that category and winning the rushing title in 2021, the two-time Pro Bowler struggled with injuries, missing 13 games between 2022 and 2023.
Head coach Shane Steichen may look to lighten Taylor's workload. The Colts could prepare rookie seventh-rounder Seth McGowan to take on goal-line touches. He's a stocky 6'1", 215-pounder who registered 12 rushing touchdowns last season at Kentucky.
Based on DJ Giddens' mostly ineffective rookie campaign, McGowan could quickly move up the depth chart if he can fill a specific role on goal-to-go and third- or fourth-and-short situations.
In a limited role, McGowan can help preserve Taylor for the duration of the season.
Jacksonville Jaguars
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RBs: Bhayshul Tuten, LeQuint Allen Jr., Chris Rodriguez Jr., DeeJay Dallas, Ja'Quinden Jackson, J'Mari Taylor (undrafted rookie)
This year, the Jacksonville Jaguars will have a new lead ball-carrier. They lost Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency, which moves second-year pro Bhayshul Tuten to the top of the depth chart.
The Jaguars need to see more out of Tuten before they tab him as the featured running back. In 15 contests, he logged 83 carries for 307 yards and five touchdowns. Although his scoring production was impressive in a limited role, he fumbled twice and had an underwhelming finish to his rookie campaign.
Tuten could take a second-year leap, though LeQuint Allen Jr. and Chris Rodriguez Jr. will be involved in the backfield rotation.
With the Washington Commanders, Rodriguez made contributions on early downs and in the red zone. In college, Allen showcased his reliable hands as a pass-catcher, logging 119 receptions for 848 yards and six touchdowns.
The Jaguars have a versatile backfield that will operate as a committee.
Kansas City Chiefs
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RBs: Kenneth Walker, Brashard Smith, Emmett Johnson (rookie), Emari Demercado, ShunDerrick Powell
The Kansas City Chiefs will have a much different backfield from the previous season. They allowed Isiah Pacheco to walk in free agency and haven't re-signed Kareem Hunt.
The Chiefs upgraded their running back room with the addition of Kenneth Walker, who won Super Bowl LX MVP. They also signed Emari Demercado and drafted Emmett Johnson in the fifth round to bolster depth at the position.
Based on Walker's three-year, $43 million contract, he'll take on the featured role. Second-year pro Brashard Smith and Demercado can handle third-down responsibilities.
Johnson may not see a ton of snaps in a revamped backfield, but he could work his way into a three-down role. The Nebraska product racked up 1,451 yards and 12 touchdowns on 251 carries and caught 46 passes for 370 yards and three touchdowns last year. Johnson has the skill set to be Walker's primary backup and running mate.
Las Vegas Raiders
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RBs: Ashton Jeanty, Mike Washington Jr. (rookie), Dylan Laube, Chris Collier
Two young running backs will lead the Las Vegas Raiders' backfield. The Silver and Black selected Ashton Jeanty with the No. 6 overall pick last year and took Mike Washington Jr. in the fourth round of this year's draft.
Despite a below-average offensive line and questionable personnel decisions for that unit last year, Jeanty still flashed signs of a special player. He racked up 138 rushing yards against the Chicago Bears and 128 yards against the Houston Texans' No. 4-ranked run defense.
Given his draft status and bright spots he showed in less-than-ideal circumstances, Jeanty will continue to average at least 15-16 carries per game and may see an uptick if the Raiders are able to build a lead in some of the games this year.
At 6'1", 233 pounds, Washington is a plug-and-play option on third-and-short and near the goal line. Like Jeanty last year, he'll need to fine-tune his pass blocking to see the field on third downs.
If Washington picks up his blocking assignments, the rookie fourth-rounder will be able to show off a decent set of hands in the passing game as he did at Arkansas last year, recording 28 receptions for 226 yards and a touchdown.
Las Vegas still has room to add a veteran running back like Najee Harris who can be a short-yardage option in the run game. Dylan Laube has had issues with fumbles, and Chris Collier's regular-season experience is negligible.
Los Angeles Chargers
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RBs: Omarion Hampton, Keaton Mitchell, Kimani Vidal, Jaret Patterson, Amar Johnson, Greg Desrosiers Jr. (undrafted rookie)
The Los Angeles Chargers have a blend of power and agility with Omarion Hampton and Keaton Mitchell.
Even though Hampton missed significant time because of injuries last season, his 6'0", 220-pound body frame can absorb contact. He doesn't have to take on the lion's share of touches, though.
Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is drawn to playmakers with speed, and Mitchell has it in spades. More than two years removed from a torn ACL, expect to see him make big plays in tip-top shape. In limited roles, he averaged 8.4 and 5.8 yards per carry for the 2023 and 2025 seasons, respectively.
Last season, as a fill-in starter for Hampton, Kimani Vidal proved he can handle a sizeable workload. In three of his 10 starts last season, he rushed for 117-plus yards. At 5'8", 215 pounds, he may not be built for a workhorse role, but the third-year pro can lead a backfield or spell Hampton if needed.
Mitchell's arrival in Los Angeles could push Jaret Patterson to the practice squad after he appeared in a handful of games with the team last season.
Los Angeles Rams
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RBs: Kyren Williams, Blake Corum, Jarquez Hunter, Ronnie Rivers, Jordan Waters
The Los Angeles Rams running back rotation won't change much from the previous season. That said, Kyren Williams and Blake Corum could have a closer split in touches in the upcoming campaign.
Williams saw a drop-off in carries per game between 2024 and 2025, but he's still the featured tailback. The 2023 Pro Bowler averaged 15.2 carries per game last year.
After a quiet rookie campaign, Corum saw a significant uptick in touches and solidified himself as the No. 2 option, rushing for 746 yards and six touchdowns in 2025.
Meanwhile, Jarquez Hunter, a 2025 fourth-rounder, could push to make an impact in the passing game. He logged 68 receptions for 558 yards and four touchdowns through four collegiate terms at Auburn.
Miami Dolphins
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RBs: De'Von Achane, Jaylen Wright, Ollie Gordon II, Donovan Edwards
New Miami Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan told reporters that De'Von Achane "is not available for trade" and contract talks about an extension are in progress.
The Dolphins' intention to keep Achane amid a roster rebuild solidifies his spot atop the depth chart under a new regime. He's coming off his first Pro Bowl campaign with a league-leading 5.7 yards per carry.
Despite his 5'9", 191-pound stature, Achane is in line for a workhorse role. He averaged about 15 carries per outing last season.
After battling an injury, Jaylen Wright had limited opportunities, while Ollie Gordon II established himself as a physical downhill ball-carrier. Yet they both finished with similar rushing numbers for the 2025 season.
As the bigger ball-carrier, Gordon, who's listed at 6'2", 225 pounds, could see his role expand in the red zone this year. A second-year undrafted pro out of Michigan, Donovan Edwards, will likely land on a team's practice squad.
Minnesota Vikings
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RBs: Aaron Jones Sr., Jordan Mason, Zavier Scott, Demond Claiborne (rookie), Kejon Owens (undrafted rookie)
The Minnesota Vikings' running back room needs a spark. Aaron Jones Sr. is entering his age-32 term. Jordan Mason isn't a dynamic pass-catcher with 28 receptions for 173 yards in four seasons.
Demond Claiborne has 4.37 speed, averaged 4.7 yards per carry and caught 55 passes for 424 yards and two touchdowns through four collegiate terms at Wake Forest. Despite his sixth-round draft status, he could be a key playmaker in the Vikings' backfield.
Jones has missed at least five games in two of the previous three seasons. Claiborne can carve out a decent role if he usurps Zavier Scott on the depth chart.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell can utilize Kyler Murray's mobility in the run game, though it carries significant risk given his recent injury history. The Vikings must utilize their depth at running back for more offensive balance.
New England Patriots
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RBs: TreVeyon Henderson, Rhamondre Stevenson, Jam Miller (rookie), Lan Larison, Terrell Jennings, Elijah Mitchell
In 2022, Rhamondre Stevenson seemed to be well on his way to being the New England Patriots' long-term lead running back. He rushed for 1,040 yards and five touchdowns that year.
Since then, Stevenson's rushing numbers have fluctuated, and he's struggled with ball security. Over the last two years, the 28-year-old has fumbled 10 times.
In 2025, New England selected TreVeyon Henderson in the second round of the draft, and he led the backfield in multiple rushing categories. Stevenson hasn't completely faded in the rotation. He finished with 130 carries for 603 yards and seven touchdowns, with 32 catches for 345 yards and two scores.
Henderson's lean 5'10", 202-pound build may prevent him from taking on a true lead role in which he gets 250-plus touches in a season, but his explosive playmaking ability will keep him on the field in any down-and-distance situation.
Rookie seventh-rounder Jam Miller projects as a physical tailback who can be a long-term complement to Henderson once the Patriots move on from Stevenson. He'll likely start his career on the practice squad, though. Terrell Jennings secured a solid role on special teams, and Elijah Mitchell has quality playing experience.
New Orleans Saints
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RBs: Travis Etienne Jr., Alvin Kamara, Kendre Miller, Devin Neal, Ty Chandler, Evan Hull, Audric Estimé, CJ Donaldson (undrafted rookie)
The New Orleans Saints made a big splash at running back during free agency, signing Travis Etienne Jr. to a four-year, $48 million deal. Based on his contract, he's in line to take over the lead role.
According to Matthew Paras of The Times-Picayune, the Saints want to address Alvin Kamara's contract situation after they restructured it in March. The 30-year-old running back has an uncertain future in New Orleans with a younger tailback on a new multiyear deal sharing the backfield with him.
If the Saints and Kamara agree to new terms on his contract, New Orleans can deploy a two-man backfield. Etienne would take on the lead rushing role while Kamara retains a strong presence in the passing game.
In three NFL seasons, Kendre Miller has struggled to stay healthy. He tore his ACL last October and will likely miss significant time in the offseason, which will jeopardize his spot on the roster. Devin Neal, Ty Chandler, Evan Hull, Audric Estime and undrafted rookie CJ Donaldson will battle for leftover touches.
As a sixth-rounder out of Kansas last year, Neal had a couple of solid performances before he suffered a season-ending hamstring injury. He could be the No. 3 running back on the depth chart. Chandler has more playing experience, though.
New York Giants
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RBs: Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary, Eric Gray, Dante Miller
Thus far, the New York Giants' running back room hasn't changed much from the previous season. Though it's worth noting that Cam Skattebo is recovering from a dislocated ankle and fractured fibula, which ended his 2025 rookie campaign last October.
Regardless of how the Giants list Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy Jr. on the depth chart, they'll both have significant roles.
Skattebo is a rugged ball-carrier who will dish out and take punishment after contact, though he can also catch out of the backfield. The 5'11", 215-pounder hauled in 24 passes for 207 yards and two touchdowns last season.
That said, on passing downs, the Giants can feature Tracy, who played wide receiver in college. As an elusive playmaker, the receiver-turned-tailback can be a dynamic threat in Big Blue's offense. He's racked up over 1,000 scrimmage yards in back-to-back campaigns.
Devin Singletary is an experienced, well-rounded No. 3 running back. The Giants restructured his deal, which has a year remaining. He won't have a major role unless Skattebo or Tracy goes down with an injury.
New York Jets
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RBs: Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, Isaiah Davis, Kene Nwangwu
New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey told reporters that he intends to revisit contract talks with Breece Hall after the draft.
An ascending talent, Hall is coming off his most productive season on the ground, rushing for 1,065 yards and four touchdowns. Only 24 years old, he can command a salary similar to Travis Etienne Jr.'s four-year, $48 million contract with the New Orleans Saints.
If the Jets and Hall agree on contract value, he'll be the team's featured back for years to come. Even if they don't come to terms on a new deal, the four-year veteran will look to cash in on a strong year with the franchise tag.
Hall's rising numbers show he's the lead tailback in this group. Given the Jets' interest in keeping him long term, he likely maintains the workhorse role.
Braelon Allen will look to bounce back from an MCL injury that required surgery. In 16 outings last year, Isaiah Davis only played 29 percent of the offensive snaps. They're interchangeable big-bodied backups. Kene Nwangwu has a secure roster spot as an elite kick returner.
Philadelphia Eagles
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RBs: Saquon Barkley, Tank Bigsby, Will Shipley, Dameon Pierce, Carson Steele
It's still the Saquon Barkley show in the Philadelphia Eagles backfield. Since the Eagles signed him in 2024, he's taken on the lion's share of touches.
Barkley has played through minor nicks and bruises, but he suited up for 16 games in back-to-back years with the Eagles. Barring an injury, the 2024 All-Pro will be one of the top running backs in usage rate.
Tank Bigsby is a distant second on the depth chart, though he's capable of handling a bigger workload. Last year, the big-bodied 5'11", 215-pounder logged 58 carries for 344 yards and two touchdowns after the Jacksonville Jaguars traded him to Philadelphia.
Will Shipley, Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele will battle for the third running back spot. Shipley's role on special teams and pass-catching ability, though not featured much in the Eagles' previous offensive schemes, give him an edge in that competition.
Pittsburgh Steelers
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RBs: Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Kaleb Johnson, Eli Heidenreich (rookie), Travis Homer, Lew Nichols
New Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy reunites with Rico Dowdle, who played under him during their time with the Dallas Cowboys.
In 2024, Dowdle logged his first 1,000-plus-yard rushing season and then signed with the Carolina Panthers in the following offseason. He turns 28 in June, but the veteran ball-carrier doesn't have much wear and tear on his body.
Dowdle has only played a significant role for the previous two seasons in Dallas and Carolina. He could lead the Steelers' backfield over Jaylen Warren, who's not a high-volume ball-carrier.
Last year, Warren led Pittsburgh with 211 rush attempts, averaging 13.2 carries per game. He may finish with similar numbers while sharing the backfield with Dowdle.
On the one hand, Warren's target share numbers could benefit from the departure of Kenneth Gainwell, who recorded a team-leading 73 receptions with the Steelers last season. However, Dowdle is a tailback who can handle early-down touches and pace the ground attack with a hot hand.
Second-year pro Kaleb Johnson is the biggest loser with Dowdle in the backfield. He struggled to find his role last season and likely enters the upcoming campaign as the No. 3 running back. Rookie seventh-rounder Eli Heidenreich is a practice squad candidate.
San Francisco 49ers
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RBs: Christian McCaffrey, Jordan James, Kaelon Black (rookie), Isaac Guerendo, Patrick Taylor Jr.
For the third consecutive year, the San Francisco 49ers selected a running back in the middle rounds of the draft. In 2024, the 49ers took Isaac Guerendo in the fourth round. Last year, they selected Jordan James in the fifth round. This year, San Francisco drafted Kaelon Black in the third round.
Before the draft, The Athletic's Matt Barrows reported that James appeared to be the "frontrunner" for the No. 2 spot on the depth chart. Black could change that with an impressive offseason. He was the third running back off the board in this year's draft, which indicates that the 49ers see him as an immediate contributor.
Black had a breakout senior year at Indiana, rushing for 1,040 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also caught 52 passes for 473 yards and six touchdowns in four collegiate terms.
Guerendo didn't log a carry or reception last season. James and Black will likely battle to spell Christian McCaffrey.
Seattle Seahawks
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RBs: Zach Charbonnet, Jadarian Price, Emanuel Wilson, Kenny McIntosh, Velus Jones Jr., George Holani, Cam Akers, Jacardia Wright
The Seattle Seahawks must compensate for the loss of Kenneth Walker, who signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency, and fill a void while Zach Charbonnet recovers from a torn ACL, an injury he suffered in January.
Until Charbonnet returns to action, the Seahawks' one-two backfield combination should be Emanuel Wilson and rookie first-rounder Jadarian Price.
Over the last two years, Wilson served as the Green Bay Packers' No. 2 running back, a complement to Josh Jacobs. He fared well in that role, averaging 4.5 yards per carry. Because of his experience, expect the Seahawks to lean on him early in the season, though Price will see a lot of action.
Price served as Jeremiyah Love's backup through three collegiate terms at Notre Dame. The rookie first-rounder could prove himself to be a lead ball-carrier with more touches, but he must work on his ball security.
On the one hand, Price has the vision and instincts to see running lanes and make decisive cuts to pick up chunk yardage, but he fumbled three times over the last season in a limited role. The rookie must protect the ball to earn a split of touches on early downs.
Even though George Holani and Kenny McIntosh were core special teamers last season, they can push for the No. 3 spot until Charbonnet gets back on the field.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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RBs: Bucky Irving, Kenneth Gainwell, Sean Tucker, Josh Williams, Owen Wright, Michael Wiley
Bucky Irving is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' No. 1 running back, but he could lose touches to two of his backups after an injury-riddled 2025 season.
The Buccaneers signed Kenneth Gainwell in free agency and retained Sean Tucker on a one-year, $3.5 million right-of-first-refusal tender.
In 2025, Gainwell served as the Pittsburgh Steelers' No. 2 running back, though he played a key role on passing downs, leading the club with 73 receptions. Expect him to operate in a similar capacity as the replacement for Rachaad White, who departed in free agency.
Tucker has shown the ability to produce in short-yardage situations. He scored five of his seven touchdowns from within six yards of the goal line last year.
Listed at 5'10", 195 pounds, Irving isn't a prototypical lead tailback in terms of size. After missing seven games in the previous campaign, Gainwell and Tucker could turn the backfield into a committee under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.
As the Atlanta Falcons' offensive play-caller, Robinson drew criticism for his inconsistent usage of star running back Bijan Robinson. Irving may not bounce back to his rookie form when he rushed for 1,122 yards and eight touchdowns in a featured role.
Tennessee Titans
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RBs: Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, Nicholas Singleton (rookie), Michael Carter, Julius Chestnut, Kalel Mullings, Blake Watson
After Saquon Barkley left the New York Giants for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 free agency, Brian Daboll utilized two running backs, Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary. In 2025, he featured Cam Skattebo with Tracy in a change-of-pace role.
As the Tennessee Titans' offensive coordinator, expect Daboll to deploy a two-man backfield. Pollard's versatile skill set and recent production almost ensure that he'll continue to lead the group. Perhaps Daboll can maximize Tyjae Spears' talent if the fourth-year pro stays healthy.
The Titans' previous coaching staff viewed Spears as 1B alongside Pollard on the depth chart, but since 2023, he's missed nine games due to injuries.
Spears enters a crucial contract season. If he's unable to shine in a complementary role, Daboll could turn to Michael Carter, who has notable playing experience or rookie fifth-rounder Nicholas Singleton, a bigger (6'0", 219 lbs) and more physical tailback compared to Pollard and Spears.
Washington Commanders
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RBs: Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, Jerome Ford, Jeremy McNichols, Kaytron Allen (rookie)
Jacory Croskey-Merritt will have an opportunity to build on a solid rookie campaign. In 2025, he led the Washington Commanders in rushing with 805 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground.
Last offseason, Croskey-Merritt generated enough buzz that the Commanders felt comfortable trading Brian Robinson to the San Francisco 49ers. Although Washington moved on from offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, David Blough likely keeps the status quo atop the depth chart.
In free agency, the Commanders signed Rachaad White and Jerome Ford, who have overlapping skill sets, though the former has been more productive in recent seasons and should handle primary pass-catching responsibilities.
White isn't a high-volume ball-carrier, though. He's finished with fewer than 145 rush attempts in three out of four seasons.
Moreover, White struggled with efficiency early in his career, averaging less than four yards per carry. He improved in that regard over the last two years, but Croskey-Merritt averaged 4.6 yards per rush attempt in his rookie campaign, which is why he should hold on to the lead role.
Croskey-Merritt and White will split most of the touches. Ford could spell both of them while Jeremy McNichols remains a valuable pass-blocking asset. Following back-to-back 1,100-plus-yard rushing seasons at Penn State, rookie sixth-rounder Kaytron Allen could become Croskey-Merritt's primary backup if Ford misses time or is cut before the season.
College statistics are provided by cfbstats.com.
Maurice Moton covers the NFL for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on Twitter @MoeMoton.
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