Running Back Tiers For 2026 Fantasy Football: Will Kenneth Walker Unlock His High-End RB1 Upside?

Creating tiers is one of my favorite exercises because it forces us to think about how we group players rather than just how we rank them. That allows us to identify potential values and fades based on average draft position (fantasy football ADP).

It also allows us to group players by floor and ceiling outcomes. That enables us to identify combinations of ceiling and floor players to start and finish our season strong. For example, if you only take one RB in the first five rounds, you need a blend of floor-ceiling options that can help early, but you want the upside league-winning hammers that you hope eventually become your RB2.

Of course, hitting on the handful of players who offer league-winning upside is our No. 1 goal, and it gets a heavy focus in this article. We are using a data-driven approach combined with a dash of common sense as we think through how things could unfold for different players and teams in 2026.

As a result, the tiers below won't exactly match my fantasy football rankings, since I am binning players based on their talent, archetype, role confidence, age, and team environment.

For more behind much of the data and concepts you will read about below, I highly recommend reading my article, What Matters for Running Backs in Fantasy Football, first.

Before we start, here are a few housekeeping notes:

The historical points referenced are based on PPR.
This article is mostly re-draft-focused, where upside matters even more, but I have included bestball notes.
QB Tiers are live.
When we conclude the tiers series, we will dive into draft strategy, identifying how we can put together the best rosters based on tier analysis and ADP.

Tier 1 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Jahmyr Gibbs | Lions
Bijan Robinson | Falcons
Christian McCaffrey | 49ers

This group of RBs offers that rare 1-2 punch between rushing and receiving and easily projects as 65%+ snap-share options. Order is primarily determined by age, team quality, and peripheral efficiency data.

Jahmyr Gibbs | Lions

Age: 24.5 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 16.1, 21.4, 21.6
Role & Archetype: Every Down - Dual Threat

Gibbs has posted back-to-back 21+ PPG seasons, finishing as the RB2 and RB3. After Dan Campbell took over play-calling in Week 10, Gibbs stepped into his largest role yet, with a 72% snap share, and led all fantasy backs with 24.3 PPG the rest of the way.

The Lions traded David Montgomery, and Campbell has already labeled Gibbs his “bell cow”. Isiah Pacheco could siphon some short-yardage work, but he’s not Montgomery. If Gibbs picks up more attempts inside the five, he has a real path to rare RB territory: 25+ PPG.

Gibbs is an elite dual-threat, ranking fifth in RB target share (17%) and sixth in yards per route run (YPRR) at 1.68 over the last two seasons. Among backs with 300+ carries, he ranks second in yards per carry (5.3) and explosive rush rate (13.8%).

Drew Petzing takes over as OC and brings sneaky upside as a run schemer. Over the last five seasons, trap, pull lead, pitch and power concepts have created edges for RBs, and Petzing ranked No. 1 in those concepts last year (35%). Gibbs has a 16% explosive rush rate on those concepts.

The Lions have a 10.5 win total and project as the No. 2 scoring offense in our model with 2.9 TDs per game.

Let the good times roll.

Superpower: Everything.
Kryptonite: None. Superman would be jealous.

Bottom Line: Gibbs is deserving of the No. 1 pick in all non-superflex formats. He projects for 22.8 PPG with a whopping 27.3 Xfinity Best ceiling.

Bijan Robinson | Falcons

Age: 24.6 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 14.5, 20.1, 21.8
Role & Archetype: Every Down - Dual Threat

Robinson has delivered a top-three RB finish in each of the last two seasons, and now Tyler Allgeier is gone. Brian Robinson Jr. will absorb some of that role, but Bijan has a clear path to more goal-line work. Last year, he ranked 24th, handling 48% of the attempts inside the five-yard line.

The former No. 8 overall pick has shown elite passing-game upside, ranking second in target share (20%) and YPRR (1.90) among backs with 300+ snaps over the last two seasons. In 2025, Robinson averaged ***10.9 PPG as a receiver***. He ranks sixth in YPC (5.0) and eighth in explosive rush rate (11.8%). Dual-threat alert!

Kevin Stefanski takes over as head coach, bringing Tommy Rees from Cleveland. While QB play limited the Browns, Stefanski consistently leaned into plus run-game concepts:

2021: 31%
2022: 32%
2023: 36%
2024: 26%
2025: 13%

Robinson has scored five rushing TDs on 120 attempts on those concepts, posting a 15.8% explosive rush rate.

Atlanta also boasts a consensus top-11 offensive line. The QB battle remains unsettled, but Tua Tagovailoa or Michael Penix can support a functional offense.

The Falcons carry a 6.5 win total and project as the No. 21 scoring offense (2.2 TDs per game). Robinson and Gibbs are close, but I’m leaning toward the Lions.

Superpower: 400-touch ceiling with sizzle.
Kryptonite: The Falcons project for far fewer points than the Lions.

Bottom Line: Robinson is my No. 2 ranked player and projects for 21.9 PPG with a 25+ PPG ceiling.

Christian McCaffrey | 49ers

Age: 30.3 (Post-Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 24.5, injured, 24.5
Role & Archetype: Every Down - Dual Threat

McCaffrey has finished as the RB1 in each of the last two campaigns. He is in the age bracket where RBs have historically declined, which is why he ranks behind Gibbs and Robinson.

CMC averaged 5.4 YPC in 2023, but that dropped to 3.9 last year. His explosive rush rate fell from 16.2% to 8.7%. We can't ignore those numbers. But McCaffrey has remained at the top of his game as a receiver. He led all RBs with a 24% target share and ranked second in YPRR (1.81), scoring 13.9 PPG as a receiver (1st).

He plays in a great scheme under Kyle Shanahan behind the No. 8 consensus offensive line. Oddsmakers have San Fransicso at 10.5 wins, and we project them as the No. 5 scoring offense (2.7 TDs per game).

McCaffrey was the No. 8 pick in fantasy drafts last season, and he rewarded fantasy managers with 5.2 PPG over expected versus historical ADP. He added 4.4 wins above replacement (WAR). There is some risk with McCaffrey, but he still offers league-winning upside.

Superpower: RB1 or RB2 in 5 of 7 seasons.
Kryptonite: The Great Equalizer: Age.

Bottom Line: McCaffrey is a high-end dual-threat RB1—the type of archetype that can lead you to fantasy glory. He is worthy of a mid-round-1 pick.

Tier 2 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Jonathan Taylor | Colts
Ashton Jeanty | Raiders
Saquon Barkley | Eagles
De'Von Achane | Dolphins

We have high confidence that this group of RBs will be on the field 65%+ snaps. They are all plus-talents who can add value to their touches.

Jonathan Taylor | Colts

Age: 27.7 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 15.6, 17.5, 21.3
Role & Archetype: Every Down - Rushing

Taylor has posted RB9 and RB4 finishes over the last two seasons. In 2025, he was a league-winner, appearing on 72% of ESPN playoff rosters. As a Round 2 pick, he delivered 5.1 PPG over expected. Before Daniel Jones’ injury in Week 13, Taylor averaged 24.5 PPG.

The seventh-year veteran rarely leaves the field, logging 80% (2nd) and 82% (2nd) snap shares over the last two seasons while averaging 97.3 rushing YPG (3rd) and 0.94 TDs (T-1st) per game. Over that span, 79% of his fantasy production has come via rushing.

It hasn’t just been volume—Taylor has remained efficient, posting 4.8 YPC (8th) with a 10.7% explosive rush rate (14th). Shane Steichen has leaned into plus run concepts (27%), and Taylor has thrived, averaging 6.2 YPC and a 6.2% TD rate on 194 attempts using trap, power, pull lead and pitch designs. Behind a consensus top-10 offensive line, he should remain efficient in 2026.

Taylor ranks 22nd in RB target share (10%) but just 63rd in YPRR (0.92), functioning primarily as a checkdown option. However, Michael Pittman Jr.’s departure could open the door for more targets—Taylor posted a 25% target share on a small sample (50 routes) without him in 2025.

Oddsmakers have the Colts at 7.5 wins, and I project them as the No. 13 scoring offense (2.5 TDs per game).

Superpower: Big-volume back in a plus-scheme who doesn't share work around the goal line.
Kryptonite: Can the Colts get back to early-2025 form?

Bottom Line: Taylor is a mid-range RB1 who is locked into a full-time role and is thriving in Steichen's run scheme.

Ashton Jeanty | Raiders

Age: 22.8 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 14.3
Role & Archetype: Every Down - Balanced

Jeanty is the No. 3 RB prospect in the history of the Rookie Super Model. He underperformed as a late Round 1 pick in Year 1, but still handled an every-down role (78% snap share) with the seventh-best target share (14%) and ranked No. 7 in Utilization Score (84).

Historically, players in that range have averaged 16.3 PPG, pointing to positive regression. There are also clear reasons for optimism entering Year 2.

Klint Kubiak arrives after deploying plus run concepts on 23% of plays in 2024 and 2025. The Raiders also upgraded the offensive line with Tyler Linderbaum and get Kolton Miller back. Jeanty averaged just 3.7 YPC last season but managed only 0.60 yards before contact—32nd out of 33 RBs with 150+ attempts.

With a thin depth chart, Jeanty should again command a large workload. The challenge is the offense, which remains a work in progress. Outside of Brock Bowers, the receiving corps lacks firepower, and the Kirk Cousins–Fernando Mendoza combination could be volatile.

Oddsmakers set the Raiders at 5.5 wins, and I project 1.8 TDs per game (28th). Even so, that context is baked in, and Jeanty still projects for 16.4 PPG (ninth). If the offense exceeds expectations, the upside follows—his Xfinity Best sits at 19.6 PPG.

Superpower: Amazing prospect who doesn't come off the field.
Kryptonite: Questionable team environment.

Bottom Line: Jeanty is a mid-range RB1 to low-end RB1 with the talent profile to unlock a high-volume outcome season if the Raiders offense improves from bad to below-average.

Saquon Barkley | Eagles

Age: 29.6 (Post Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 15.9, 22.2, 14.5
Role & Archetype: Every Down - Balanced

Barkley smashed leagues in 2024, beating his late Round 1 ADP by 2.7 PPG and appearing on 69% of ESPN playoff rosters. Last season flipped the script: -4.8 PPG vs. ADP and a -1.6 WAR over expected. Was it the Madden cover jinx or something deeper?

It wasn’t role-related. Barkley’s snap share rose from 74% to 78%, attempts from 65% to 70%, and target share from 11% to 12%. Jalen Hurts remained a factor inside the five, but Barkley still improved from 45% to 48% of those attempts.

Rushing efficiency cratered:

2024: 5.8 YPC; 13.4% explosive → 125 YPG, 0.81 TDs/game
2025: 4.1 YPC; 10% explosive → 71 YPG, 0.44 TDs/game

Some regression was inevitable—2024 was extreme. Barkley is also in his post-prime window, so decline is possible. Still, context matters.

He battled knee, groin, and stinger injuries from October through December. The offensive line was also compromised: Landon Dickerson (ankle, back, quad, knee, calf; one missed game), Cameron Jurgens (knee; two missed) and Lane Johnson (foot; six missed), plus banged-up backups.

That sets up a potential rebound with the No. 2 consensus offensive line returning healthy. The Eagles also replaced Kevin Patullo with Sean Mannion as play-caller.

Barkley averaged a 15% target share in five healthy pre-Eagles seasons and posted 21% on 30 routes without A.J. Brown (small sample alert).

The Eagles carry a 10.5 win total and project as the No. 10 scoring offense (2.6 TDs/game).

Superpower: One of the best RBs of the last 10 years.
Kryptonite: Jalen Hurts is Doomsday at the goal line.

Bottom Line: Barkley is entrenched in a large snap share on a high-quality roster, making him a mid-range to low-end RB1. He offers value on platforms like Sleeper and FFPC, where he is a mid-to-late Round 2 selection.

De'Von Achane | Dolphins

Age: 24.9 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 17.3, 17.6, 20.2
Role & Archetype: Every Down - Dual Threat

Achane is the No. 5 RB with 18.5 PPG over the last three seasons. Over that span, he leads all RBs with 5.6 YPC and a 15.3% explosive rate. His 1.38 YPRR ranks 11th among backs with at least 300 routes.

Last season was Achane's largest role, which has grown every season.

Even with a larger workload on a bad team, he averaged 5.7 YPC. That context matters with Miami projected for 4.5 wins and as the No. 32 scoring offense (1.7 TDs per game).

Achane’s archetype can offset a bad offense, but historically, RBs on teams this bad have struggled to deliver elite RB1 seasons. They still return mid-to-low-end RB1 value at similar rates.

Outliers on five-win teams:

Christian McCaffrey (2019: 29.5 PPG, 93% snaps, 24% targets)
Saquon Barkley (2018: 24.1 PPG, 83%, 21%)

Achane won’t reach that CMC usage, but should play enough on passing downs to offset negative scripts.

Achane is a notch below CMC as a receiver. CMC attacks deeper (1.6-yard aDOT), while Achane operates near the line (0.1), which could hurt with a scrambling QB like Malik Willis—something CMC overcame with Cam Newton. Still, Miami’s weak receiving corps should help offset concerns.

Mike McDaniel is out, with Jeff Hafley (HC) and Bobby Slowik (play-caller) in. McDaniel used plus run concepts at 24% and 23%; Slowik was similar at 21% and 22% in Houston. Achane has averaged 6.3 YPC with a 17% explosive rate on those concepts.

The Dolphins are returning 4 of 5 starters on the offensive line, but added left guard Kadyn Proctor in Round 1. They are No. 30 in consensus rankings.

This team wants to lean on the run, even when trailing, boosting Achane’s rushing floor but slightly capping his receiving upside. Malik Willis could also siphon goal-line work, increasing reliance on long TDs.

Superpower: Dual-threat big-play maxxing RB.
Kryptonite: The Dolphins' offense sucks.

Bottom Line: Achane is a pure bet on talent and archetype overcoming obstacles. I’m out in Round 1, but he’s appealing in the mid-Round 2 range.

Tier 3 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

James Cook | Bills
Kenneth Walker III | Chiefs
Omarion Hampton | Chargers
Derrick Henry | Ravens
Chase Brown | Bengals

This tier of RBs has more volume fragility than the Tier 2 options, but has the talent to make up for it. Should they outperform volume expectations, they will leapfrog many Tier 2 options—which is why several are higher in my official ranks.

James Cook | Bills

Age: 27 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 13.7, 16.7, 17.8
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Rushing

Cook has posted RB11 and RB6 finishes over the last two seasons. In 2025, he handled a career-high 67% attempt share while maintaining strong efficiency (5.2 YPC). Over the last two years, he ranks fourth in YPC (5.1) and ninth in explosive rush rate (11.6%).

This offseason, the staff has hinted at keeping him fresh, which could mean a lighter rushing workload. However, Bills reporters have also pointed to an expanded passing-game role with Pete Carmichael—a Sean Payton disciple—joining the staff. Cook was a strong receiving prospect and posted YPRRs of 1.43 and 1.45 in his first two seasons—marks aligned with top-three fantasy RBs, historically.

There’s downside to taking Cook in Round 1 if the rushing workload is spread out, especially with Josh Allen dominating goal-line work. But if Cook earns more passing-game involvement, it could unlock his best fantasy season. If we knew he’d see a 60–70% route participation rate, he’d be Tier 1.

Ultimately, Cook is a good player in a great offense with a consensus top-six offensive line. The Bills project as my No. 1 scoring offense (3.1 TDs per game) with a 10.5 win total tied for second-best. They’ve won 11, 13 and 12 games over the last three years—a key threshold for RBs handling 60%+ of attempts.

Superpower: Efficiency king on a winning team with hidden pass-game upside.
Kryptonite: Josh Allen is General Zod at the goal line.

Bottom Line: Cook is a mid-range RB1 with high-end RB1 upside if he unlocks more passing-down opportunities. His floor is a borderline RB1.

Kenneth Walker III | Chiefs

Age: 25.9 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 13.3, 16.5, 11.3
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced

Walker has handled a 60%+ snap share just once (2024), when he averaged 16.5 PPG on 64% of snaps. We saw another glimpse in the playoffs last season, where he posted a 63% snap share with Zach Charbonnet sidelined and averaged 24.9 PPG.

Kansas City signed Walker to a three-year, $43M deal with $28.7M guaranteed. He ranks 23rd in YPC (4.3) over the last two years but sits No. 6 in explosive rush rate (12.3%). With the Chiefs, he should take over the majority of the rushing workload, including most of the inside-the-five opportunities, giving him a solid baseline.

The upside comes via the passing game. While not a standout receiving prospect, Walker’s NFL data points to untapped potential. His 1.40 YPRR and 21% TPRR both rank 13th over the last two seasons—benchmarks in line with top-three RBs historically (1.43 YPRR, 20% TPRR).

Eric Bieniemy has emphasized pass protection and route running. If Walker earns trust there, he could post a career-high route participation rate, with rookie Emmett Johnson and Emari DeMercado as the main competition. The Chiefs’ receiving corps has question marks, creating a setup that could funnel more targets to RBs.

The offensive line ranks No. 19 in consensus, and oddsmakers have the Chiefs at 10.5 wins (T-2nd). Since 2016, 40% of RBs with at least 60% of the snaps on 11+ win teams have averaged 20+ PPG. I project the Chiefs for 2.4 TDs per game (15th).

Superpower: Big-play ability with sneaky receiving upside.
Kryptonite: Will he actually play on pass downs?

Bottom Line: Walker is a mid-range to low-end RB1, but high-end RB1 upside is on the table with a larger role in the pass game. He is a great value as a late-Round 2 pick across multiple platforms.

Omarion Hampton | Chargers

Age: 22.5 (Early Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 15.1
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced

Hampton landed on IR from Weeks 6–12 due to an ankle injury that limited his workload upon return. In games with at least a 50% snap share, he averaged 15.9 PPG. When he hit 70%, that jumped to 19.7 PPG.

With Keaton Mitchell added and Kimani Vidal returning, Hampton likely won’t reach 70% often. Still, as a Round 1 pick, he should operate as the clear No. 1 in an offense that could take a massive leap under Mike McDaniel with a healthier line.

Despite losing Rashawn Slater for the season and Joe Alt for 11 games, Hampton posted 4.4 YPC with an 11.3% explosive rate. With both returning, plus additions Jake Slaughter (Round 2) and Tyler Biadasz (FA), the line ranks No. 10 in consensus.

McDaniel leans into plus run concepts (24% over the last two seasons). Hampton averaged 5.0 YPC (52 attempts) with a 19.2% explosive rate and three TDs on those designs as a rookie. There has been a lot of focus on Hampton's fit in outside zone (30 attempts), where he averaged 3.5 YPC. McDaniel called outside zone 25%—almost identical to the plus run concepts. Let's not overthink this one, y'all!

Hampton also posted a 13% target share in games with 50%+ snaps. His 1.04 YPRR points to a check-down role rather than a featured receiving option.

The Chargers carry a 9.5 win total and project as the No. 18 scoring offense (2.4 TDs/game), with top-six upside.

Superpower: Massive TD upside, and Mike McDaniel is Jimmy Olsen, helping solve the case.
Kryptonite: Keaton Mitchell "Wanted" posters.

Bottom Line: Hampton is a high-quality, balanced back with multiple factors pointing toward an improved environment in 2026—he is a strong low-end RB1, even if he doesn't get a bell-cow workload. If he does, think JT last year.

Derrick Henry | Ravens

Age: 32.2 (Post Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 14.5, 19.8, 16.4
Role & Archetype: Early Down - Rushing

Henry is a classic post-prime back whose peak (21.5 PPG over three seasons) was so dominant that even a step down keeps him highly relevant. He has finished RB4 and RB6, appearing on 63% and 48% of ESPN playoff rosters in two years with Baltimore.

Henry played 56% of the snaps in 2025 with a primary focus on early-down work, handling 68% of the rushing attempts. He dominated work inside the five-yard line, but only posted a 31% route participation rate with a 5% target share.

The pairing with Lamar Jackson continues to create massive rushing lanes, leading to 2.0 yards before contact per attempt (third-best since 2024). Henry’s 5.6 YPC ranks first, and his 12.8% explosive rush rate ranks fifth.

Baltimore’s offense will look different in 2026. Declan Doyle (Sean Payton/Ben Johnson tree) takes over at OC under HC Jesse Minter. The good news: those systems mirror Baltimore’s usage of plus-run concepts.

Ravens: 22%
Payton: 22%
Johnson: 20%

Henry has averaged 6.3 YPC with a 15.9% explosive rate on those designs. Including the playoffs, he has scored 23 TDs with a massive 9.9% TD rate. That Big Dog can eat.

The concern is personnel loss. Center Tyler Linderbaum and FB Patrick Ricard are gone. Baltimore added LG Olaivavega Ionae (Round 1), RG John Simpson, and C Danny Pinter, but the line ranks 24th in consensus.

As a passing-game non-factor, Henry relies on explosive plays and TDs. That makes him game-script dependent. Fortunately, Baltimore has an 11.5 win total (1st), and I project them to be the No. 3 scoring offense (2.9 TDs/game). That is the kind of environment that is conducive to fantasy points for his archetype.

Superpower: Freight-train power with Bullet Train speed, and Lamar Jackson clears the tracks.
Kryptonite: Targets and age.

Bottom Line: Henry is a TD-dependent home run hitter with a limited passing-game role and age-related risk, but is still a low-end RB1 in a good offense. He offers value when available in the late-Round-2 range.

Chase Brown | Bengals

Age: 25.8 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 4.5, 15.9, 16.6
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced

Brown has finished the last two fantasy seasons strong, showing up on 49% and 45% of ESPN playoff rosters. But each season, it took an injury (Zack Moss and Samaje Perine) to get him going. Last season, his production continued after Perine's return (22.3 PPG), but his role reverted with a 61% snap share.

Over that span, Perine took 50% of the attempts inside the five-yard line and played 60% of the two-minute offense. Those aren't sticky stats year over year, so we could see more shift to Brown, but it is an unknown. Brown needs more of those opportunities to unlock significant upside.

Of course, when Brown was struggling, he didn't have Joe Burrow either. Brown's 22.3 PPG season-ending surge also aligns with Burrow's return.

Brown upped his target share from 10% to 15% from Year 2 to Year 3, which is a significant positive in a pass-first offense. However, his 1.09 YPRR remained in check-down territory, which creates some risk in an offense with two high-end WRs.

The Bengals have the third-easiest schedule, based on oddsmakers' 2026 opponent win totals. At 10.5 wins, the market has high expectations for Cincinnati, which is a good thing for Brown. I have the Bengals projected as the No. 8 scoring offense with 2.6 TDs per game.

The Bengals' consensus offensive line rank is 29.

Superpower: Projected volume in a high-scoring offense.
Kryptonite: Talent profile not on par with the rest of the tier and shared role in each of the last two years when his RB2 was healthy.

Bottom Line: Brown might not be a high-end talent, but he plays in a good offense and projects as a borderline RB1. On sites where he is a Round 2-3-turn pick (ESPN and Sleeper), Brown is a worthy pick, but I am a bit more timid when priced higher.

Tier 4 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Jeremiyah Love | Cardinals
Breece Hall | Jets

This assembly of RBs is high on talent with pass-game upside, but their situations are not ideal.

Jeremiyah Love | Cardinals

Age: 21 (Pre-Prime)
Fantasy PPG: Rookie
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced

Love ranks as the No. 5 RB in the Rookie Super Model since its inception in 2017. He offers an every-down skill set with explosive playmaking ability. His closest comp in the model is Bijan Robinson, and 100% of his comparisons reached top-six fantasy status by Year 3.

Since 2015, most top-10 RBs have received a significant workload in their first year (excludes games missed):

Ashton Jeanty: 78%
Saquon Barkley: 76%
Ezekiel Elliott: 75%
Leonard Fournette: 71%
Todd Gurley: 66% (coming off ACL)
Bijan Robinson: 45%
Christian McCaffrey: 26% (23% targets)

While Tyler Allgeier and James Conner could keep Love from a 70%+ role, he should operate as the No. 1 RB immediately. The question is whether Allgeier will usurp opportunities inside the five-yard line—something he is good at. On a bad team, we need all the high-leverage opportunities we can get for Love.

The Cardinals carry the lowest team total at 3.5 and project as my No. 27 scoring offense. We are likely to see Round 3 pick Carson Beck at some point.

The offensive line ranks 21st.

Superpower: Top-five RB prospect since 2017.
Kryptonite: The Cardinals' offense = Red Sun Radiation.

Bottom Line: Love is likely to be a superstar in the NFL, but the question is whether he can overcome a terrible situation to pay off as a rookie—he is a high-end RB2. I prefer him in Round 3 rather than Round 2.

Breece Hall | Jets

Age: 25.3 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 17.1, 15.1, 13
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Dual Threat (trending to Balanced)

Hall’s fantasy production has declined in each of the last three seasons. In 2025, he battled a knee issue and finished RB20 after being drafted as RB16. Hall handled a career-high 68% of rushing attempts last season, but an early-season injury to Braelon Allen helped his cause.

Hall signed a three-year, $43.5M extension this offseason, suggesting potential for a true every-down role. However, Aaron Glenn called it a “three-headed monster” at minicamp. That clashes with the contract, but we saw it early last year—Hall handled a 46% attempt share before Allen’s season-ending injury.

Since 2023, he ranks 17th in rushing YPG (59.9) among backs with 300+ totes. His 4.3 YPC ranks 21st, and his 10.7% explosive rate ranks 17th. In a dysfunctional offense, TDs have been scarce—a 2.1% rushing TD rate (37th of 41 qualifiers).

His receiving output has declined with lower target shares (9.4 → 7.7 → 4.8 PPG), and the Jets added Round 1 weapons Kenyon Sadiq and Omar Cooper Jr. Still, Hall’s 1.46 YPRR is high-end RB1 caliber, signaling untapped dual-threat upside.

Geno Smith—assuming off-field issues don’t linger—should be an upgrade, but hiring Frank Reich raises concerns. He hasn’t created advantages in the run or pass game. The Jets’ offensive line ranks No. 18.

Oddsmakers project 5.5 wins, and I have the Jets as the No. 30 scoring offense (1.9 TDs/game). Still, improved personnel offers a path to outperform expectations.

Superpower: Every-down skill set.
Kryptonite: The threat of a shared backfield with Frank Reich at the controls.

Bottom Line: Hall is the kind of archetype we want to bet on, but his offensive environment is shaky, making him a tricky mid-range RB2.

Tier 5 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Travis Etienne Jr. | Saints
Javonte Williams | Cowboys
Kyren Williams | Rams

This cluster of RBs projects well, but their talent profiles are closer to replacement level.

Travis Etienne Jr. | Saints

Age: 27.7 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 16.6, 8.9, 14.9
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced

Etienne signed a four-year, $47.4M contract to become the RB1 for the Saints in 2026. The sixth-year back has dominated a backfield only once in his career (2023). That season, he hogged a 73% snap share, 69% of attempts and garnered a 12% target share on a 57% route participation.

Since 2011, there have been 100 RBs to reach a 70% snap share with at least eight games played. That cohort averaged 18.4 PPG, well above Etienne's 16.6 in 2023.

Over the last three years, Etienne ranks 24th in rushing YPG (54.5) and 20th in rushing TDs per game out of 41 backs with at least 300 attempts. His 1.10 YPRR ranks 27th. With Alvin Kamara still on the roster, there is some risk that Etienne gives up some pass-down work.

Last season, Kellen Moore leaned primarily into inside zone (28%) and outside zone (23%) concepts. Etienne has averaged 3.7 YPC on inside zone and 4.6 YPC on outside zone. The Saints' consensus o-line rank is in the middle of the pack at 17.

Oddsmakers have the Saints at 7.5 wins, which is fine for RBs. I have their offense ranked 26th in TDs per game (2), but they have several ingredients that make them a candidate to improve.

Superpower: Just got paid and has shouldered a large workload before.
Kryptonite: Slightly above average talent profile.

Bottom Line: Etienne is not an elite RB talent; he is a bet on volume and the Saints improving as an offense. He is a mid-range to low-end RB2. Probably not a league-winner, but add a ~0.5 WAR in Round 4.

Javonte Williams | Cowboys

Age: 26.4 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 11.2, 9.3, 15.2
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Rushing

Williams was one of the steals of the 2025 fantasy season, showing up on 52% of ESPN playoff rosters. He scored +5 PPG over expected vs. ADP, adding 1.4 WAR.

The Cowboys rewarded Williams with a three-year, $24M deal ($16M guaranteed). His $8M AAV ranks No. 18 among RBs, tied with D’Andre Swift and J.K. Dobbins, per Spotrac.

Freed from a timeshare in Denver, Williams logged a career-high 69% snap share and 64% attempt share. Before neck/stinger injuries, he posted a 79% snap share and 16.2 PPG. He finished with 75 rushing YPG, 4.8 YPC and a 10.3% explosive rate.

The Cowboys’ offensive line was hit hard by injuries in 2025. All five starters missed time or played hurt. It ranks 14th entering 2026.

Before Dallas, Williams was a capable receiver (1.20, 1.34, 1.22 YPRR). That fell to 0.40 in a loaded offense. It’s unclear how much was Williams versus sharing targets with Lamb, Pickens and Ferguson.

Since 2011, we have seen eight RBs post 14+ PPG and a YPRR of 0.60 or lower. The following season, those players saw their PPG fall by three points per game (-18%).

Derrick Henry (2020-2021): 20.9 → 20.3
Jonathan Taylor (2024-2025): 17.6 → 21.3
Arian Foster (2012-2013): 19.1 → 13.3 (injuries)
Alfred Morris (2012-2013): 16.1 → 11.6
Kyren Williams (2024-2025): 17.4 → 15.7
LeGarrette Blount (2016-2017): 14.7 → 6.7
Chuba Hubbard (2024-2025): 16.4 → 8.5
Todd Gurley (2019-2020): 14.8 → 10.9

Williams profiles closer to the fallers than Henry/Taylor. That doesn’t rule out success, but it opens the door for competition—especially on passing downs—with an offseason drumbeat for Jaydon Blue.

Oddsmakers project 9.5 wins; I have Dallas as the No. 6 scoring offense (2.7 TDs/game)—a strong setup, especially if Williams is TD-dependent.

Superpower: Amazing offense. Think Batman: He is just a human, but has awesome tech.
Kryptonite: Hyper-dependent on the offense, and Dallas wants someone to play Robin.

Bottom Line: Williams is a mid-range RB2 with big-time TD spike potential, but his heavy snap share from 2025 is fragile. Not drafting before Round 4.

Kyren Williams | Rams

Age: 26.1 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 21.3, 17.0, 15.5
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down (trending toward split) - Rushing

Williams' fantasy points have been trending down over the last two years. Last year, for the first time in three years, Williams lost his grip on complete domination of the backfield.

And that doesn't tell the whole story. In Week 7, Blake Corum emerged in a larger role. From that point on, the numbers were lower for Williams.

Now, these are still good numbers, especially in an offense like the Rams; they just aren't what made Williams a high-end RB1 candidate.

Williams was efficient last year with a 4.8 YPC, close to his three-year 4.6 mark (12th), but his rushing YPG hit a three-year low of 75. His explosive rush rate of 9.8% ranks 28th. Corum busted 15.9% of his attempts for 10+ yards last year. Historically, high-end efficiency doesn't guarantee more volume for rotational backs, but Corum is a solid bet to at least hang onto the role he carved out in 2025.

Williams isn't highly involved in the Rams' passing attack, which makes his fantasy status more fragile should the offense underperform.

Still, the Rams are tied with the Ravens for the best win total (11.5), and I have them projected as the No. 4 scoring offense, averaging 2.8 TDs per game. Their offensive line carries a consensus rank of No. 3.

Superpower: Sean McVay and the offense.
Kryptonite: Blake Corum.

Bottom Line: Williams is a viable RB2 option, but the emergence of Corum caps his upside. I am fading in Round 3.

Tier 6 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Cam Skattebo | Giants
Josh Jacobs | Packers

These RBs are high-risk, high-reward options.

Cam Skattebo | Giants

Age: 24.6 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 16.5 (seven healthy games)
Role & Archetype: Committee - Dual Threat

Skattebo became the starter in Week 2 and averaged 18.8 PPG over six games before a season-ending injury. He offers a dual-threat profile that can unlock massive fantasy upside.

Over that span, he notched a 15% target share and handled 80% of the attempts inside the five-yard line.

He averaged 4.1 YPC with a 9.9% explosive rush rate—not elite numbers. But his 1.54 YPRR was high-end RB1-worthy. He averaged 7.1 PPG receiving for the season.

While Skattebo is on track for training camp, his injury was severe: a compound open ankle dislocation, fractured fibula and ruptured deltoid ligament. That required a tightrope procedure, which has not been kind:

Chris Godwin: 19.4 PPG → 9.0 PPG
Mark Andrews: 12.4 PPG → 10.7 PPG
Tony Pollard: 15.5 PPG → 12.7 PPG
Cooper Kupp: 13.5 PPG → 14.4 PPG

All of these players, except Pollard (26), were significantly older than Skattebo, which could work in his favor. He is moving well. However, there is a real risk.

Matt Nagy is not an inspiring hire as the OC under new HC John Harbaugh. He rarely uses plus run concepts. Yet there are a few reasons that I believe the Giants will lean those concepts.

Harbaugh has a history of his OCs using them (22% over the last four seasons), and Greg Roman is the top offensive assistant. He used those concepts 25% and 23% of the time, respectively, in the last two seasons with the Chargers.

The Giants also added Isaiah Likely and Patrick Ricard in free agency, signaling an intention for more heavy personnel. They also drafted Francis Mauigoa in Round 1 of the NFL Draft. The offensive line consensus rank is No. 20.

Oddsmakers have the Giants at a respectable 7.5 wins. I have them projected as the No. 19 scoring offense with 2.3 TDs per game.

Ultimately, I am in on Skattebo. I only have him projected for 55% of the rushing attempts and docked his YPC (3.8) and brought his yards per reception down from 8.6 to 7.5. Still, he projects as a mid-range RB2 with 14.6 PPG. He is going in Round 4 as the RB19. Based on historical ADP, that would outperform expectations by +2 PPG. If he bucks the tightrope trend as a younger athlete, the upside is considerable.

Superpower: Elite combo of pass-catching and goal-line skills.
Kryptonite: Coming off a major injury.

Bottom Line: Skattebo is a boom-bust RB2. He is the archetype who can deliver massive fantasy seasons. The injury risk is real, but the price is right in mid to late Round 4.

Josh Jacobs | Packers

Age: 28.6 (Post Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 13.9, 17.2, 15.8
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced

Jacobs was arrested in May in Wisconsin due to a domestic disturbance complaint. No charges have been filed, and the District Attorney is still reviewing the case. Jacobs has denied all allegations. There is a chance nothing will happen here if things drag out, but the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy allows the league to impose a suspension independently of the legal system.

Drew Davenport has legal expertise and provided a thorough breakdown. Ultimately, this comes down to your risk tolerance.

From an on-field perspective, Jacobs has delivered RB8 and RB10 finishes over the last two seasons. He is past his prime but still within range to provide fantasy value in a strong offensive environment.

Jacobs battled knee issues from Week 11 through the Wild Card game. Before the injury, he averaged 19.4 PPG with a 68% snap share. Post-knee injury, he handled 48% of the snaps and averaged 9.3 PPG.

Week 1-10: 71% attempts, 51% routes, 13% targets
Week 12-Wild Card: 58% attempts, 28% routes, 6% targets

Those pre-injury numbers are much more in line with his first year in Green Bay.

Jacobs isn't highly involved in the passing game and isn't a home-run hitter. But the Packers project as my No. 9 scoring offense (2.6 TDs/Game) and carry a 9.5 win total. They have the No. 27 consensus offensive line.

He will be a value in late-Round 3 to Round 4 if he plays. I am not forcing it because players like Etienne and Williams have a similar range of outcomes at a similar price without the legal risk. I am not taking Jacobs unless he falls into mid-Round 4 or later.

Superpower: Near-every-down RB on a good offense.
Kryptonite: Off-field concerns.

Bottom Line: Jacobs offers potential value when he slides to Round 4 or later of drafts, but is a fade for me in Round 3.

Tier 7 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

David Montgomery | Texans
Quinshon Judkins | Browns
D'Andre Swift | Bears

Projectable volume with question marks. Think floor, not ceiling.

David Montgomery | Texans

Age: 29.3 (Post Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 14.8, 15.8, 9.8
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced

Montgomery found a new home this offseason via trade and slots in as the RB1 for Houston. Before arriving in Detroit, Montgomery shouldered some large workloads for the Bears.

2020: 74% snaps, 72% attempts, 11% targets → 17.5 PPG
2021: 74% snaps, 75% attempts, 12% targets → 15.1 PPG
2022: 64% snaps, 45% attempts, 12% targets → 11.1 PPG

The eighth-year veteran isn't an explosive playmaker, with only 9.6% of his attempts going for 10-plus yards over the last three years in Detroit's high-powered offense. But he has a history of decent target shares, and his three-year YPRR of 1.34 is good enough to play some pass downs. That is an area where Woody Marks could challenge for opportunities, but Montgomery isn't drawing dead.

The Texans revamped their offensive line with three new starters:

LG - Wyatt Teller (free agent)
C - Keylan Rutledge (Round 1)
RT - Braden Smith (free agent)

Their consensus preseason rank is No. 28, but there is room for improvement.

The Texans project for 9.5 wins per oddsmakers and are my No. 23 scoring offense with 2.3 TDs per game. They are a balanced attack with a strong defense that can keep the run game in play.

Superpower: Has proven he can handle larger workloads, and the depth chart is weak.
Kryptonite: Middling talent profile.

Bottom Line: Montgomery is a volume-based bet as a low-end RB2. He is priced way down on several sites.

Quinshon Judkins | Browns

Age: 22.9 (Early Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 12.4
Role & Archetype: Early Down - Rushing

Cleveland's early-Round 2 pick missed all training camp and the preseason due to a legal situation in 2025. Yet, he stepped into action in Week 2. Over a 12-game span as the starter, before dislocating his ankle and fracturing his fibula in Week 13, he averaged 12.3 PPG and dominated the rushing attempts (79%).

Judkins struggled to maximize his opportunities with 3.6 YPC and a 7.8% explosive rate. But he didn't get much help from his offensive line. Among RBs with at least 150 attempts, he ranked last in yards before contact per attempt (0.40).

He also battled a shoulder injury suffered against the Browns in Week 8. Before that injury, he averaged 4.1 YPC with an 8.5% explosive rate despite a similar 0.43 yards before contact. My eyes tell me Judkins is a legit NFL runner with the frame to handle a significant workload over multiple seasons.

Historically, RBs with Judkins' sort of rush share of 70% or higher with a target share of 9% or lower have averaged 15.5 PPG—well above his 12.3 last season. That points to an opportunity for positive regression. But will the same concerns that held him back persist into 2026?

Judkins needs more work in the passing game. With Jerome Ford gone, there is a chance he picks up some of the slack, but that is an area where Dylan Sampson excels. On a high-quality offense that is overcomable, but the oddsmakers have the Browns at 5.5 wins (third-lowest), and I have them projected as the 31st scoring offense with 1.8 TDs per game.

We have already established that rushing archetypes need efficiency and big TD totals to smash in fantasy. But let's dig a little deeper. Below are the RBs who handled 70%+ of the rushing attempts with a 9% target share or below on teams that won six or fewer games since 2011—they averaged 13.4 PPG:

Adrian Peterson | Vikings | Year 7 (2013): 17.1 PPG
Nick Chubb | Browns | Year 2 (2019): 16.3 PPG
Joe Mixon | Bengals | Year 3 (2019): 14.1 PPG
Chris Johnson | Titans | Year 5 (2012): 13.8 PPG
Alfred Morris | Commanders | Year 3 (2014): 11.8 PPG
Tony Pollard | Titans | Year 7 (2025): 11.3 PPG
Peyton Barber | Buccaneers | Year 3 (2018): 9.5 PPG

OK, this isn't the worst list. We can't call Judkins a comparable player to Peterson or Chubb, who were superior prospects, but they are the upside cases. He is a better player than Morris, Pollard (post tightrope) and Peyton Barber. Not to get too hyper-focused, but Mixon is probably his best comparison.

If we got the extreme Chubb outcome, Judkins would outproduce his ADP (Round 5-6, RB22) by +4.4 PPG, which would be 1.5 WAR. That would likely make him a highly rostered playoff option. Three of the four backs who have done that have appeared on 45%+ of ESPN playoff rosters since 2016.

At the median outcome using Mixon and the average (13-14.5 PPG), he would add 0.7 WAR, which hasn't been enough to make him a plus playoff contributor. Zero of the four backs in that range at his ADP have shown up on 45%+ of ESPN playoff rosters.

The Browns completely revamped their offensive line, replacing four of five starters.

LT - Spencer Fano (Round 1)
LG - Zion Johnson (FA - Round 1 bust)
C - Elgton Jenkins (FA - Was good at one point)
RT - Tytus Howard (FA)

Unfortunately, industry consensus rankings are pessimistic at No. 32. But it will be hard to be worse than last season, so there is room for improved efficiency from Judkins.

Todd Monken takes over play-calling duties as the new HC. Historically, Monken has leaned more into plus-run concepts (24%) than the NFL average (20%).

The team also upgraded their offensive weapons with KC Concepcion in Round 1 and Denzel Boston in Round 2. The challenge: a massive question mark at the QB position with Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson.

On the injury front, Judkins is moving well and participated in team drills during OTAs/minicamp. The good news is that, based on the information we have, he did not require a tightrope procedure.

When you put it all together, there are paths to improvement for Judkins in 2026. But in most runouts, he feels like a break-even or losing pick in Round 5, and all of this analysis assumes he maintains a 70%+ rush share, which is an outlier high-end mark.

Superpower: Young RB with massive rushing volume upside.
Kryptonite: He isn't a receiving back, and the Browns could trail often.

Bottom Line: Judkins is a talented early-down back with decent role certainty, making him a solid floor play. But likely not a league winner in 2026. He is a low-end RB2.

D'Andre Swift | Bears

Age: 27.7 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 12.5, 12.6, 14.3
Role & Archetype: Split Backfield - Balanced (trending toward rushing)

Swift battled a litany of injuries in 2025 and still put up his best season in three years with Ben Johnson taking over as the playcaller. He averaged 15.1 fantasy points per game with a 65% snap share before his groin injury (Week 7), compared to 13.7 PPG and a 55% snap share after—suggesting the injury may have quietly suppressed both his role and production.

Over his first three seasons, Swift was a stronger target earner with a 25% TPRR (elite) and a 1.55 YPRR (elite). Over the last three seasons, we haven't seen that same spunk, with a 15% TPRR and 0.96 YPRR. He is the favorite to play more pass-downs for the Bears, but in an offense with Colston Loveland, Luther Burden and Rome Odunze, he likely won't be a focal point.

The bet on Swift is all about the Bears' offense and Kyle Monangai's limited skill set. Chicago projects as my No. 2 team in plays per game (63) and No. 12 in offensive scoring (2.5 TDs/game). And we could see another leap in the scoring department if the young weapons all come through. Oddsmakers have Chicago at 9.5 wins.

Last season, outside zone was the preferred run-game concept (35%), with Swift leading the team with 5.2 YPC and a 15.6% explosive rush rate on 128 totes. The Bears' offensive line comes in at No. 3 in consensus rankings.

Superpower: Plays on the Bears under Ben Johnson.
Kryptonite: Middling talent profile, and the pass game should flow through the WRs/TEs.

Bottom Line: Swift is a borderline RB2 offense with contingent RB1 potential should Monangai miss time or regress.

Tier 8 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Bhayshul Tuten | Jaguars
Jadarian Price | Seahawks
Bucky Irving | Buccaneers
TreVeyon Henderson | Patriots
Jaylen Warren | Steelers

This collection of RBs offers considerable upside based on their talent profiles but comes with considerable role uncertainty. Think ceiling, not floor.

Bhayshul Tuten | Jaguars

Age: 23.6 (Early Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 5.7
Role & Archetype: Committee - Balanced

Tuten played a backup role in Year 1 behind Travis Etienne, handling only 22% of the snaps.

With Etienne gone, Tuten has a huge opportunity. He will battle free agent addition Chris Rodriguez (on a contract less significant than people think) and LeQuint Allen for snaps. There is the potential for a three-headed committee, where Rodriguez handles short-yardage work, and Allen compiles passing-down reps.

Rodriguez has a history with head coach Liam Coen—he was his No. 1 RB at Kentucky in 2021, totaling 1,379 yards and 9 TDs. But his archetype is extremely narrow: a downhill early-down thumper with no passing-game chops. He wasn't a receiving back in college and has recorded only 7 targets in his NFL career, earning a look on just 5% of his routes. Plus, he is battling an offseason foot injury.

Tuten, on the other hand, posted a 13% target share in college with 1.27 yards per route run. He graded out as a far superior prospect. Tuten would rank as the RB2 in the 2026 rookie class in the Rookie Super Model.

As a rookie, he averaged only 3.7 YPC on 87 attempts. But I am leaning more into his collegiate profile. He was better on plus run concepts (small sample) with 5.5 YPC and a 16% explosive rate. Coen deployed trap, pull lead, power and pitch concepts 20% of the time last season. Their offensive line has a consensus rank of 23.

The Jaguars carry an 8.5 win total and project as my No. 7 scoring offense with 2.7 TDs per game.

Historically, if you only focus on rookie RBs who scored 6.0 PPG or less, the hit rates are low in Year 2. But Tuten has a unique opportunity with Etienne out of the picture. Veteran departures have led to some significant fantasy hits.

Devonta Freeman: 5.6 → 21.8 (Steven Jackson departure)
James Conner: 1.1 → 21.5 (Le'Veon Bell sat out)
Kyren Williams: 3.8 → 21.4 (Cam Akers traded in-season)
Chase Brown: 4.9 → 15.9 (Joe Mixon departure)
Tevin Coleman: 4.1 → 14.7 (Kyle Shanahan freak offense that supported two backs)
Jay Ajayi: 4.5 → 14.5 (Lamar Miller departure)
James Cook: 6.7 → 13.9 (Devin Singletary departure)
Stevan Ridley: 4.5 → 13.1 (BenJarvus Green-Ellis departure)

The challenge with Tuten: the fantasy market is much sharper (or at least more aggressive) than it used to be. Tuten costs a Round 5-6 pick. Historically, this setup costs a Round 8-9 selection.

Opportunity costs are higher, which makes Tuten a better pick for the *right* kind of builds because most of the trade-offs in that range are at WR. If you already have 2-3 good WRs, Tuten makes sense as a swing for the fences. If you already have 2-3 RBs, the WRs could make more sense.

Superpower: Big-play potential in an ascending offense.
Kryptonite: Dynamic duos are okay, but if this is a three-way split, yikes.

Bottom Line: Tuten is a boom-bust borderline RB2. He offers legit RB1 upside in an ascending offense with Etienne gone.

Jadarian Price | Seahawks

Age: 22.9 (Pre-Prime)
Fantasy PPG: Rookie
Role & Archetype: Early Down - Rushing

With Kenneth Walker leaving via free agency and Zach Charbonnet suffering a torn ACL in the NFL Playoffs, the Seahawks opted for an RB with the last pick of Round 1. The Rookie Super Model viewed that as a reach, due to a low production rating and lack of passing-down work in college.

His historical comparisons in the model secured a top-36 RB finish 49% of the time by Year 3 (not great for a Round 1 pick), but Price will have an opportunity to fast-track his career. Touches are up for grabs to start the year, with George Holani and Emanuel Wilson as the top challengers—that is a weak depth chart! I like the chances of a Round 1 investment in that race.

The primary concern is if Price starts slow, because an eventual return from Charbonnet will theoretically impact his late-season production. 12 players drafted between picks 24 and 38 have averaged a 47% snap share over the first four weeks since 2015. They averaged 51% from Weeks 5-17. There hasn't been a significant difference.

Below, I have dug deeper into the competition for those backs. A weak depth chart indicates teammates who were rotational/backup players to that point in their careers. This is through the lens of how we would have perceived that depth chart *before* the season.

Najee Harris | Steelers | Pick 24: Weak depth chart → 92% snaps
T.J. Yeldon | Jaguars | Pick 36: Weak depth chart → 75%
Clyde Edwards-Helaire | Chiefs | Pick 32: Weak depth chart → 68%
Quinshon Judkins | Browns | Pick 36: Weak depth chart → 59% snaps (Week 3 and 4 - joined team in Week 2)
Josh Jacobs | Raiders | Pick 24: Weak depth chart → 53%
Breece Hall | Jets | Pick 36: Weak depth chart → 47% (Fellow rookie Michael Carter carved out a significant role in preseason)
Javonte Williams | Broncos | Pick 35: Established veteran - Melvin Gordon III → 45%
Sony Michel | Patriots | Pick 31: Established pass-downs veteran - James White → 36% (preseason knee injury, missed Week 1)
Treveyon Henderson | Patriots | Pick 38: Established veteran - Rhamondre Stevenson → 35%
D'Andre Swift | Lions | Pick 35: Established veteran - Adrian Peterson → 30%
Rashaad Penny | Seahawks | Pick 27: Weak depth chart → 29% (Chris Carson snatched his chain in the preseason)
Nick Chubb | Browns | Pick 35: Established veteran - Carlos Hyde (free agent add) → 5%

Five of the seven weak-depth chart players played at least 50% of the snaps over the first four weeks, and four of them were 59% or higher.

And here's the thing—we don't know for sure when Charbonnet will return, and he won't be 100% right away. There is a chance that Price performs well and holds onto a lead role all season. If you are worried about that, you can always trade Price away as the Charbs return nears.

The Seahawks want to pound the rock and play defense, which could lead to great game scripts for an archetype like Price. His lack of receiving production in college hurts, but this is the right setup for a less-than-stellar prospect.

Oddsmakers have Seattle at 10.5 wins, and they project as my No. 17 offense with 2.4 TDs per game. They rank fourth in rush rate in my projections and have the No. 15 consensus offensive line ranking.

Brian Fleury replaces Klint Kubiak as OC. Fleury has been under Kyle Shanahan since 2019 and most recently served as the run-game coordinator in 2025.

Superpower: Round 1 Draft capital on a weak depth chart in the right setup.
Kryptonite: Below-average prospect for a Round 1 pick.

Bottom Line: Price is a borderline RB2 with upside as an early-down chunk-play artist on a team with a strong scheme and great defense. Price is an upside target in Round 6 of fantasy drafts.

Bucky Irving | Buccaneers

Age: 24.1 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (24-25): 14.4, 13.9
Role & Archetype: Committee - Balanced

Irving outperformed his ADP by +6.8 PPG as a late-round pick / free-agent pickup as a rookie. That season, he averaged 16.8 PPG after taking over as the starter in Week 6, despite some injury-riddled weeks.

Last season, he was off to a blazing start, averaging 18 PPG over the first four weeks, despite getting 0% of the attempts inside the five-yard line. He flashed as a target-earner with a 15% share.

However, foot and shoulder injuries forced him to miss time, and his production wasn't the same upon his return. He still handled 65% of the rushing attempts, but his route participation rate and targets plummeted. Without work inside the five, he averaged only 11.1 PPG over the final six games.

Clearly, Irving has demonstrated mid-range RB1 upside as a fantasy asset over healthy stretches. But he has battled injuries in back-to-back seasons when loaded up with touches.

This offseason, the Bucs hired Zac Robinson to take over play-calling duties and added Kenneth Gainwell on a two-year, $14M contract. We have the potential for a three-headed backfield with Sean Tucker continuing to see work inside the five-yard line.

The coaching staff has provided us with some clues based on their comments this offseason:

OC Zac Robinson on Bucky Irving: "In terms of run concepts, I think Bucky can run everything."
RB coach Skip Peete on Kenneth Gainwell: Praised his pass-catching prowess and third-down ability, including his blocking skills.
Peete on Sean Tucker: Noted a secure, defined role as a short-yardage back in goal-line packages.

It is hard to fade these coach takes because they align with each player's skill set.

Zac Robinson has leaned into outside zone concepts more than any other OC over the last two seasons (47% and 48%). Irving has averaged 3.9 YPC with an 8.8% explosive rate on 114 such attempts for his career. Gainwell has averaged 3.0 with a 6.9% explosive rate on 58 totes. While those aren't great numbers for either back, it makes sense for Irving to operate as the base-down back.

The team is returning all five starting offensive linemen, which ranks No. 5 in consensus ranks.

The Bucs have an 8.5 win total per oddsmakers and are my No. 16 scoring offense, averaging 2.4 TDs per game.

Superpower: Fashed elite upside when healthy and would be a dual-threat with snaps.
Kryptonite: Health hasn't held up, and Gainwell could snatch his pass-downs chain.

Bottom Line: Irving has RB1 upside in his range of outcomes based on his resume, but all signs point toward a committee. He is an upside-based, borderline RB2.

TreVeyon Henderson | Patriots

Age: 23.9 (Early Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 12.1
Role & Archetype: Split Backfield - Balanced

Henderson underperformed his Round 4 price tag (RB18) in home league drafts last season, scoring -0.4 PPG under expected. Chalk up another win for competent veteran RBs like Rhamondre Stevenson holding off rookies.

However, we caught a glimpse of Henderson's potential over a four-game stretch with Stevenson out for three and limited in the other. Over that span, Henderson averaged a rip-roaring 21 PPG with a 78% snap share.

Unfortunately, once Stevenson was back to health, Henderson was relegated to a 36% snap share. Including the NFL playoffs, Stevenson outscored Henderson 16.9 PPG vs. 9.5 PPG.

All the coaching comments I can find point to a split again, with Henderson as the big-play hitter and Stevenson as the trusted, more "rugged" option. Now, how this split will play out exactly offers a wide range of outcomes.

I have them neck and neck in the projections, with some growth forecast for Henderson.

But he could easily be in the same role as last year or take on the lead portion of a two-headed committee.

When I look at this situation, I can't help but think of Derrick Henry. While we now know King Henry as one of the best runners in NFL history, he had to wait multiple seasons because of DeMarco Murray.

2016: Played behind DeMarco Murray (27% snaps, 7 PPG)
2017: Tightened to a split backfield with Murray (40% snaps, 8.4 PPG)
2018: Moved into lead role with Murray gone but Dion Lewis involved (41% snaps, 11.1 PPG)
2019: Took over (64% snaps, 20 PPG)

It is a rare scenario, and we can't fixate on one data point, but the point is that Stevenson is a quality player and could make things hard on Henderson again in 2026.

If you are just looking for a fun reason to draft Henderson that isn't rooted in good process—this type of analysis usually just pisses me off when I see it—here it is: RBs to average at least 11 PPG as rookies with +5.0 YPC (minimum 10 rushes per game):

TreVeyon Henderson
Nick Chubb
DeMarco Murray
Devin Singletary

WTF, Singletary!?!? You really killed the vibes on that one.

While we are just having fun, it does highlight the rare big-play ability we have in Henderson.

The Patriots project for 10.5 wins and are willing to pound the rock under Mike Vrabel (there is a bad joke there somewhere), which is a plus. I have the Patriots projected as the No. 11 scoring offense (2.5 TDs/game).

They added Alijah Vera-Tucker to take over the starting right guard spot and drafted right tackle Caleb Lomu in Round 1. Lomu will battle Morgan Moses. New England owns the No. 16 consensus o-line rank.

Superpower: He's the Flash. Will be a league winner if he lands the lead role.
Kryptonite: His ADP (Round 5). And what are the odds of him landing the lead role?

Bottom Line: Henderson is a pure speculation bet on ceiling if he leapfrogs Stevenson through performance or injury. If that happens, we will win leagues. Boom-bust RB3. I have him tiered higher than guys like Blake Corum because of higher dual-threat upside.

Jaylen Warren | Steelers

Age: 27.9 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 11.6, 8.3, 13.6
Role & Archetype: Committee - Dual Threat

Warren set career highs in snaps and routes last season with 50% and 60%, in a split backfield with Kenneth Gainwell. Now, Gainwell is gone, but Rico Dowdle enters the picture in what projects as a split backfield again in 2026.

The story with Warren is the same as it has been for the last three years—he offers upside in the passing game as a dual-threat RB. While he hasn't broken fantasy to this point, he is the type of archetype that can boom if things break his way.

Over the last three seasons, Warren has checked plenty of efficiency boxes:

YPC: 4.7 (10th among 41 RBs with at least 300 attempts)
Explosive rushes: 12.7% (7th)
TPRR: 25% (2nd among 61 RBs with at least 300 routes)
YPRR: 1.50 (3rd)

Running backs coach Ramon Chinyoung gave the generic "Thunder and Lightning" response when asked about how the backfield will split up. Mike McCarthy didn't describe it as specific roles; instead, he noted they "have two guys" who don't have to leave the field on third down.

The team added Michael Pittman Jr. in free agency and drafted Germie Bernard. With more viable WR targets on the field, we could see Warren's TPRR fall this season. To overcome multiple non-RB target earners, you typically want a plus aDOT, and Warren is at -1.4 over the last three seasons.

The Steelers leaned into plus run concepts heavily over the last two seasons under Arthur Smith (26% and 31%). McCarthy utilized those concepts 24% and 25% in two of four seasons in Dallas, so he could keep those designs in play since the offensive line is familiar. Early offseason notes suggest the scheme is leaning toward outside zone, but McCarthy was not overly committed to those looks in Dallas (22%), so that could just be speculative reporting.

Pittsburgh drafted right tackle Max Iheanachor in Round 1 to challenge Dylan Cook. They also added Gennings Dunker in Round 3 at right guard. Troy Fautanu, a Round 1 pick in 2024, enters his second season, battling Borderick Jones (2023 Round 1), who is recovering from injury. The line ranks 22nd in preseason consensus, but they have some outs that could improve their hand.

Warren averaged 5.2 YPC with a 13.2% explosive rate on trap, pull lead, pitch and power concepts (91 attempts). He also excelled in outside zone with 5.8 YPC and a 16.9% explosive rate on 117 attempts. So, he can play either scheme.

Oddsmakers have the Steelers line at 8.5 wins, and they project as my No. 24 scoring offense with 2.2 TDs per game.

Superpower: Same as it ever was—he has a dual-threat profile.
Kryptonite: Same as it ever was—still hasn't happened!!! Plus, McCarthy has Dowdle history.

Bottom Line: There is uncertainty about how this backfield will shake out, but Warren offers the theoretical three-down skill set we want if he catches a break in playing time. He is a mid-range RB3 with upside.

Tier 9 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Rhamondre Stevenson | Patriots
Chuba Hubbard | Panthers
Tony Pollard | Titans
Rico Dowdle | Steelers
J.K. Dobbins | Broncos

This band of RBs projects enough volume to be fantasy-relevant, but the upside is limited.

Rhamondre Stevenson | Patriots

Age: 28.6 (Post Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 12.1, 11.7, 12.8
Role & Archetype: Split Backfield - Balanced to Dual Threat

To the ire of fantasy managers across the planet, Stevenson held TreVeyon Henderson in check in 2025. In 17 games where both backs played healthy, including the NFL Playoffs, Stevenson was the clear RB1.

PPG: 13.5 vs. 8.1
Snaps: 64% vs. 34%
Attempts: 46% vs. 36%
Routes: 54% vs. 28%

Of course, last year doesn't always equal the next season, and I have this projected as a tighter split in 2026, with both backs at 45% of the attempts. But it is a very difficult backfield to project, where either back could surge to the lead position.

With improved QB play and a competent offensive plan, Stevenson looked more like the back from 2021 and 2022 before a dark cloud covered Gillette Stadium for two years.

2021-2022: 4.8 YPC, 14.7% explosive rushes, 23% TPRR, 1.39 YPRR
2023-2024: 3.9 YPC, 8.5% explosive rushes, 17% TPRR, 0.78 YPRR
2025: 4.6 YPC, 11.5% explosive rushes, 14% TPRR, 1.24 YPRR

Superpower: Well-rounded option that the coaches trust in a quality offense.
Kryptonite: What happens if Henderson earns trust in Year 2? You know the answer.

Bottom Line: Stevenson is a high-end to mid-range RB3, but has provided +1 WAR only once in his career (2022). He is a fill-in option, but not a high-priority option in redraft.

Chuba Hubbard | Panthers

Age: 27.3 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 10.7, 16.1, 8.4
Role & Archetype: Committee - Balanced

Hubbard was a letdown in 2025, averaging -4.1 PPG below expected based on his Round 4 ADP. A calf injury opened the door for Rico Dowdle to take over the RB1 role for a significant chunk of the season. Not ideal following a season where he signed a $33M contract extension.

If you are looking for a bright spot, Hubbard averaged 17.3 PPG in games where he played 55%+ snaps, much more in line with his 2024 performance. I may have Hubbard miscast as a committee option. A near-every-down role is in his range of outcomes, but Jonathon Brooks is healthy and will challenge for opportunities.

Hubbard ranks 28th in YPC (4.2) and 35th in explosive rate (8.8%) out of 41 backs with at least 300 attempts over the last three seasons. He ranks 45th in TPRR (16.2%) and 53rd in YPRR (0.74) out of 61 RBs with at least 300 routes over that span.

The team will continue to deploy an outside-zone scheme under new play-caller Brad Idzik. Over the last three years, Hubbard has averaged 4.5 YPC with an 11.4% explosive rate on outside-zone attempts. The offensive line comes in at No. 7 in consensus rankings.

The Panthers added tackle Monroe Freeling in Round 1 of the draft and center Luke Fortner in free agency. They also added Rasheed Walker, with Ikem Ekwonu recovering from a ruptured patellar tendon that leaves his return timeline in doubt.

Oddsmakers have the Panthers at 7.5 wins, and I have them projected for 2.1 TDs per game (25th).

Superpower: Has been good when healthy over the last two seasons.
Kryptonite: Lackluster receiving profile, and Brooks is champing at the bit.

Bottom Line: The Panthers have a strong offensive line and a commitment to the run, which leaves the door open for a surprise performance from Hubbard, but his lack of passing-game prowess hurts, and he must hold off Brooks. Hubbard is an RB3.

Tony Pollard | Titans

Age: 29.4 (Post Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 13.1, 12.5, 10.9
Role & Archetype: Near Every Down - Balanced (trending to rushing)

You are getting what you are getting—a veteran RB past their prime that has a chance to lead the Titans' backfield this year. Pollard has handled 69% and 62% of the snaps for the Titans over the last two seasons.

Basically, you are betting on a Year 2 leap from the offense with Cam Ward taking a step forward under Brian Daboll (which isn't a lock) with new weapons Carnell Tate and Wan'Dale Robinson. If that happens, a lead back like Pollard would be a value as a Round 8-9 selection.

He has been okay on the ground, ranking 27th in YPC (4.2) and 19th in explosive rush rate (10.2%) since the tightrope. And his receiving numbers have tanked: 0.76 YPRR (52nd) with a 10% target share.

Rarely has this archetype gone on to big things in the following year. Only DeMarco Murray (18.2 PPG - went from Eagles to Titans) and Mark Ingram (16.2 PPG - went from Saints to Ravens) posted meaningful fantasy points the following season.

Tyjae Spears will take some snaps and has a non-zero chance of forcing a closer split. If things aren't going well, the team could decide to give rookie Nicholas Singleton more run as the season goes on.

The Titans' consensus offensive line ranking is 31st. Daboll has leaned into plus concepts at times, with 30% in 2022 in Year 1 with the Giants. But he has leaned into inside zone—the least efficient run concept—as his lead top option in three of the last four campaigns.

Oddsmakers have the Titans at 6.5 wins and project as my No. 29 scoring offense with 1.9 TDs per game. Again, they have some outs to outperform expectations, but I don't have them in the high-confidence range.

Superpower: Hope that the Titans' offense is drastically improved. Is hope a superpower?
Kryptonite: Fading talent profile in a questionable offense.

Bottom Line: Pollard is a stop-gap RB3 option if you get yourself into trouble in redraft leagues, but we should try to avoid ending up in that scenario—he is the most overpriced option in this tier.

Rico Dowdle | Steelers

Age: 28.3 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 5.7, 12.4, 12.7
Role & Archetype: Committee - Balanced

Dowdle closed out the 2024 season as the starter for seven games under McCarthy, where he averaged 13.8 PPG. He handled 70% of the snaps and attempts. He played the two-minute offense, which McCarthy has referred to this offseason, but only had a 7% target share.

Then last year, Dowdle seized the Panthers' backfield after Chuba Hubbard suffered a calf injury. He started hot, posting 32.4 and 31.9 points in Weeks 5 and 6 without Hubbard. With Hubbard back in the fold from Week 7 through 18, Dowdle averaged 11.8 PPG. But he did flash a little in the receiving game with a 12% target share. He dominated work inside the five-yard line (80%).

With the Steelers, Dowdle will share the workload with Warren. We don't know how the split will ultimately shake out, and it could be a hot-hand approach. McCarthy doesn't view them as role-specific, but as a tandem.

For more on the Steelers team outlook and offensive line, see Jaylen Warren above.

Superpower: The ultimate hot-hand RB of 2025, and has a history with McCarthy.
Kryptonite: Warren is the better pass-down option.

Bottom Line: Dowdle is a mid-range RB3 option who offers contingent RB2 upside should Warren miss time. He has one of the better ADPs of this group.

J.K. Dobbins | Broncos

Age: 27.8 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 11.7, 14.8, 11.6
Role & Archetype: Committee - Rushing

Dobbins operated as the RB1 for the Broncos for the first 10 weeks before a season-ending Lisfranc injury to his foot. Over that span, he accounted for 51% of the snaps and was the lead early-down back with 65% of the attempts.

Dobbins is an underrated RB who boasts the No. 5 explosive rush rate (13.5%) over the last three years. His 4.8 YPC ranks seventh.

There is a chance Dobbins turns in a usable RB2 season—he is certainly good enough to spike as a rusher, especially if he runs hot on TDs. But that would likely take a 70% attempt share, and the backfield is more crowded after the addition of Jonah Coleman in Round 4 of the draft. That would also assume no growth from Harvey in the rushing department.

But for fun, let's say Dobbins duplicated his success with the Chargers two seasons ago, posting 14.8 PPG. That would be valuable as the RB35 off the board in Round 9. It would be +4.6 PPG over expected vs ADP and add 1.2 WAR.

Still, that is a thin needle to thread. And since 2016, we have seen six RBs accomplish a similar result from that ADP. Only two of them were on over 45% of ESPN playoff rosters.

The Broncos have the No. 1 consensus offensive line. Oddsmakers have them at 9.5 wins, and they project as my No. 14 scoring offense with 2.4 TDs per game.

Superpower: Hyper-efficient runner with a good offensive line and a defense to keep games close.
Kryptonite: Passing-down reps.

Bottom Line: Dobbins could add value as an RB3 who serves as a stop-gap RB2 if you get stuck in drafts, but in a crowded backfield, his upside is capped. His price is the best of this group (RB35).

Tier 10 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Jonathon Brooks | Panthers
RJ Harvey | Broncos
Blake Corum | Rams
Kenneth Gainwell | Buccaneers
Kyle Monangai | Bears

Complementary or committee players with the traits to boom if volume breaks their way.

Jonathon Brooks | Panthers

Age: 23.2 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (injured): N/A
Role & Archetype: Complementary - Balanced

Brooks was shelved for the entire 2025 season after tearing his ACL again in 2024. However, he has been cleared for practice and is on track for training camp. He would have been the No. 2 prospect in the 2026 RB draft class behind Love in the Rookie Super Model.

While we don't know if he will return to his collegiate heights, Dave Canales called Brooks "one of the more powerful, explosive athletes that we have". Canales also stated he wants Brooks to push for a significant role, saying, "I’m open to whatever he wants to bring, and I know what he looked like prior to the injury. I know what that player looks like, so I have that in the back of my mind. And that’s a vision that I hope he has, too. And so that we can go and attack that.”

Just last season, we saw Hubbard squeezed out of his role by Dowdle, who had the hotter hand. To be fair, Hubbard battled a calf injury that inhibited his play. But this is one of the few backfields where there is a realistic path to the RB1 role for a young, explosive playmaker.

For more notes on the scheme, see Hubbard above.

The offensive line comes in at No. 7 in consensus rankings. Oddsmakers have the Panthers at 7.5 wins, and I have them projected for 2.1 TDs per game (25th).

Superpower: Explosive playmaker in college AND makes you doubt how to spell Jonathon for the rest of your life.
Kryptonite: Right ACL injuries in 2023 and 2024.

Bottom Line: Brooks is a priority target as an RB4 with a legit path to RB2+ upside if Hubbard falters or Brooks outplays him. He is my most-drafted RB in best ball (22%) with the best price in this tier—and I prefer him straight up.

RJ Harvey | Broncos

Age: 25.6 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 12.2
Role & Archetype: Committee - Dual Threat

Harvey took over the backfield after an injury to J.K. Dobbins in Week 10 and averaged 15.2 PPG with 61% of the rushing attempts and a 12% target share.

For the season, he scored 50% of his fantasy points via receiving with 6.1 PPG and a 1.36 YPRR (RB1-worthy). He is the kind of archetype that can boom in fantasy, but he worked well behind Dobbins—who the team resigned to a two-year, $16M contract—before the veteran was injured.

Over the first nine contests, with Dobbins, he averaged 10 PPG, with a 29% snap share, 19% rush share and a 32% route participation rate. He was a priority in the passing game when on the field with a 23% TPRR.

While Harvey checks some of the boxes we are looking for, it is important to note that his comparisons didn't all go on to smash. In fact, most of them never did anything. Below is a list of backs—Round 2-4 NFL draft picks—who averaged 9-12 PPG as rookies with a plus YPRR:

Javonte Williams (eventual hit)
Tre Mason (miss)
DeMarco Murray (big hit)
Jamaal Williams (small hit)
Roy Helu (miss)
Jeremy Langford (miss)
Michael Carter (miss)
Matt Jones (miss)
Javorius Allen (miss)
Rhamondre Stevenson (small hit)
Duke Johnson Jr. (miss)
Tyjae Spears (miss so far)
Nyheim Miller-Hines (miss)

Entering 2026, the Broncos' backfield is even more crowded after the team added Jonah Coleman in Round 4. Coleman is a solid all-around back who could limit the upside of the Dobbins-to-contention scenario should Dobbins miss time.

The Broncos have the No. 1 consensus offensive line. Oddsmakers have them at 9.5 wins, and they project as my No. 14 scoring offense with 2.4 TDs per game.

Superpower: Theoretical dual-threat upside.
Kryptonite: Three is a crowd.

Bottom Line: Harvey is a mid-range RB3 with upside, but his high-end contingency upside takes a hit with the addition of Coleman. He is the most expensive option in the tier.

Blake Corum | Rams

Age: 25.8 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (24-25): 2, 7.2
Role & Archetype: Complementary - Rushing

Corum carved out a complementary role behind Kyren Williams from Week 7 on with a 34% snap share. Over a 14-game span, including the NFL playoffs, he averaged 8.4 PPG and accounted for 38% of the rushing attempts.

If he sustains that role, he doesn't offer much standalone value other than operating as a flex in a pinch. But as the RB2 on one of the best offenses in the NFL, he is a premium handcuff who could help win leagues if Williams misses time.

Last season, Corum averaged 5.1 YPC and notched a 15.9% explosive rush rate on 145 carries. High efficiency from backup RBs hasn't historically correlated to more volume in the following year. But there is an outside chance that Corum pushes this closer to a 50-50 split, which would improve his stand-alone value.

The Rams are tied with the Ravens for the best win total (11.5), and I have them projected as the No. 4 scoring offense, averaging 2.8 TDs per game. Their offensive line carries a consensus rank of No. 3.

Superpower: Young RB with big burst on a fantastic offense.
Kryptonite: Not a passing game threat.

Bottom Line: Corum is a high-end RB4 with contingent RB1 upside, making him one of the top two handcuffs in fantasy football.

Kenneth Gainwell | Buccaneers

Age: 27.5 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 6.1, 3.7, 13
Role & Archetype: Committee - Receiving

Gainwell is a great example of a player who flashed a high-end receiving profile in college, showed glimpses early in his NFL career, and eventually broke out (fingers crossed, Jaylen Warren). With the Steelers, he secured the largest role of his career with a 50% snap share and delivered a career-high 13 PPG.

While he only accounted for 30% of the rushing attempts, he notched a 16% target share with a 1.48 YPRR. He scored 63% of his fantasy points via receiving work (7.4). Over the last three seasons, he ranks 13th in TPRR (21%) and 24th in YPRR (1.16) among 61 RBs with at least 300 routes.

With the Bucs, Gainwell will likely fill a role similar to last season, taking on passing-down reps and serving as a complementary option to Irving. But if something happens with Irving, Gainwell would likely step into a 50%+ snap share, with Sean Tucker also getting a bump. In that scenario, Gainwell would once again offer RB2 upside.

Gainwell has not flourished in outside-zone concepts over the last three years, which are Robinson's primary run scheme. He has averaged 3.0 with a 6.9% explosive rate on 58 totes.

The team is returning all five starting offensive linemen, which ranks No. 5 in consensus ranks.

The Bucs have an 8.5 win total per oddsmakers and are my No. 16 scoring offense, averaging 2.4 TDs per game.

Superpower: Passing-down prowess.
Kryptonite: Sean Tucker dampens contingent upside if Irving goes down.

Bottom Line: Gainwell is a mid-range RB3 option with contingent RB2 upside in PPR formats; he is a borderline RB3 in standard leagues.

Kyle Monangai | Bears

Age: 24.5 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 8.4
Role & Archetype: Complementary - Rushing

Monangai operated as the No. 2 RB, spelling Swift last season. He finished the year with a 41% snap share and 38% of the attempts, averaging 8.4 PPG.

Monangai isn't an explosive runner (8.9%), but he did a solid job grinding out yards with 4.6 YPC on 9.9 attempts per game last season. The former Round 7 NFL pick wasn't a factor in the passing game with a 6% target share and 14% TPRR, which matches his collegiate profile.

It is hard to envision much stand-alone value for the Year 2 RB, but similar to Corum, he could carve out a slightly larger role and is a solid handcuff option.

Chicago projects as my No. 2 team in plays per game (63) and No. 12 in offensive scoring (2.5 TDs/game). And we could see another leap in the scoring department if the young weapons all come through. Oddsmakers have Chicago at 9.5 wins.

Superpower: Ben Johnson.
Kryptonite: Explosiveness and target-earning ability.

Bottom Line: Monangai is an RB4 option with contingent upside if Swift misses time.

Tier 11 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Rachaad White | Commanders
Jacory Croskey-Merritt | Commanders
Jordan Mason | Vikings
Aaron Jones | Vikings
Chris Rodriguez Jr. | Jaguars

The lead role is up for grabs in these backfields. They could devolve into gross multi-back committees, but if we get one of these right, it will pay dividends. Think Javonte Williams last season.

Rachaad White | Commanders

Age: 27.7 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 15.8, 12.5, 8.4
Role & Archetype: Committee - Pass Downs - Dual Threat

White's role diminished over the last two seasons in Tampa Bay with the emergence of Irving. But now he lands with a Washington team that has a wide-open depth chart. Early reports have this backfield headed toward a committee, but White was named as one of the offensive standouts by Dan Quinn in minicamp.

The fifth-year veteran isn't an efficient runner (4.0 YPC and 8% explosive rate), but he has the immediate inside track on passing-down work and experience handling an every-down role. Over White's first three seasons, he scored 5.4, 8.1, and 7.9 PPG on receiving work alone.

David Blough takes over play-calling duties from Kliff Kingsbury and is shifting toward more zone-blocking concepts. Historically, outside zone has not been a strength for White, who averaged 3.3 YPC with a 5.9% explosive rate over the last three seasons.

On inside zone, he averaged 3.5 YPC with a 5.4% explosive rate. He was at his best in plus run concepts with a 4.4 YPC and 13% explosive rate. But we could see White benefit from defenses focusing on Jayden Daniels. Historically, dual-threat QBs who are involved in the designed run game improve RBs' rushing efficiency.

The Commanders' offensive line ranks 26th.

Oddsmakers have Washington at 7.5 wins, and they project as my No. 20 scoring offense with 2.2 TDs per game.

Superpower: Do-it-all back on a wide-open depth chart.
Kryptonite: Jack of all trades, master of none.

Bottom Line: White carries the highest upside on the Commanders depth chart thanks to an every-down skill set. He is an RB4 target after pick 100.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt | Commanders

Age: 25.4 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (25): 8.3
Role & Archetype: Committee - Early Downs - Rushing

Croskey-Merritt operated as a committee back in Year 1 and is the early favorite to handle early-down work in 2026. Chris Rodriguez is gone, but Washington added Rachaad White and Jerome Ford in free agency and drafted Kaytron Allen in Round 6. It doesn't get more wide open than that.

The man known as "Bill" led the team in YPC (4.6) and explosive rush rate (11.6%). The team wants to shift to more zone-blocking concepts in 2026 under David Blough. Last year, JCM averaged 7.4 YPC on outside zone with a 26% explosive rate, but that was based on a small sample of 35 attempts.

The hole in his game is passing-down work. He finished the season with a 3% target share and a 9% TPRR. Those are abysmal marks.

The Commanders' offensive line ranks 26th.

Oddsmakers have Washington at 7.5 wins, and they project as my No. 20 scoring offense with 2.2 TDs per game.

Superpower: Flashed big-play ability and fits well with Daniels.
Kryptonite: Passing-down opportunities.

Bottom Line: Croskey-Merritt has a shot at handling the majority of the early-down work, which could be valuable with Daniels under center, but his passing-game chops are limited. He is an RB4.

Jordan Mason | Vikings

Age: 27.3 (Late Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 2.6, 9.6, 8.1
Role & Archetype: Split Backfield - Early Downs - Rushing

It is hard to grade the Vikings RBs given their terrible 2025 season. Not only did they battle incompetent QB play, but the offensive line was incredibly banged up.

LT - Christian Darrisaw: Missed 7 games, played hurt
C - Ryan Kelly: Missed 9 games
RG - Donovan Jackson: Missed 3 games
RT - Brian O'Neil: Missed 4 games, played hurt

Considering all of that, it is low-key amazing that Mason averaged 47 rushing yards per game with 4.8 YPC and a 13.8% explosive rate.

In eight games with Mason and Aaron Jones, Jones held the utilization advantage.

Snaps: 32% vs 55%
Attempts: 38% vs 51%
Inside five attempts: 40% vs 20%
Routes: 17% vs 52%
Targets: 2% vs 13%

The team has been non-committal when asked about the 2026 rotation, noting that part of it will come down to who starts at QB and how that meshes. Round 6 pick, Demond Claiborne could also play a role.

Mason's best fit is as the early-down back with a role around the goal line, with Jones handling more of the passing-down work.

Oddsmakers have the Vikings at 8.5 wins, and they project as my No. 22 scoring offense with 2.2 TDs per game. But they are one of my favorite offenses to surprise in 2026.

Superpower: Rushing TD upside.
Kryptonite: Passing-down opportunities.

Bottom Line: The price on the Vikings backs is lower than that of RBs in similar situations, making them some of my favorite targets. I have a slight lean to Mason based on age and Jones' injury history. He is an RB4 with TD upside. He is priced down on multiple sites.

Aaron Jones | Vikings

Age: 31.8 (Post Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 12.3, 14.2, 9.9
Role & Archetype: Split Backfield - Pass Downs - Dual Threat

See Jordan Mason for the team context.

Jones edged out Mason in utilization almost across the board (see Mason). He experienced career lows in YPC (4.2) and his second-lowest YPRR (1.07). While some of that could be age-related, it is hard to know for sure because the Minnesota offense was so bad last season (see Mason).

Jones' best fit is as the passing-down option rotating with Mason. But we don't know for sure how this backfield will play out. But we want pieces of the Vikings offense, and their RBs are priced lower than similar split situations on teams with less upside.

Superpower: Dual-Threat upside when healthy.
Kryptonite: Father Time.

Bottom Line: Jones and Mason are priced too low given the upside of the Vikings offense, but I lean toward Mason due to Jones's age and injury concerns. Still, if healthy, Jones offers value as an RB4 later in drafts.

Chris Rodriguez | Jaguars

Age: 26 (Prime)
Fantasy PPG (23-25): 2.9, 3.5, 7.1
Role & Archetype: Committee - Rushing

Rodriguez signed a two-year $10M contract to team back up with his college coach—Liam Coen. He will challenge Tuten for early-down opportunities and short-yardage work.

He was his No. 1 RB at Kentucky in 2021, totaling 1,379 yards and 9 TDs. But his archetype is extremely narrow: a downhill early-down thumper with no passing-game chops. He wasn't a receiving back in college and has recorded only 7 targets in his NFL career, earning a look on just 5% of his routes.

Rodriguez only has 198 attempts over the last three seasons, but he has been efficient, averaging 4.6 YPC with a 12.6% explosive rate. Some of that ties to playing with a dual-threat in Jayden Daniels. Still, he has scored a TD on 5.1% of his attempts, converting 7 of 18 attempts inside the five-yard line.

The Jaguars carry an 8.5 win total and project as my No. 7 scoring offense with 2.7 TDs per game. Their offensive line has a consensus rank of 23.

Rodriguez suffered a foot injury that sidelined him from OTAs and minicamp, but he is expected to be ready for training camp.

Superpower: Short yardage.
Kryptonite: Non-factor in the passing game.

Bottom Line: Rodriguez doesn't offer a dual-threat profile, but the Jaguars are an ascending offense, and Rodriguez is priced way down on multiple sites. He is a TD-dependent RB4.

Tier 12 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

We will go rapid-fire through the rest of the tiers. Starting with Tier 12, which consists of RBs who will likely play some sort of role this season and offer contingent upside if the starter goes down.

Tyrone Tracy | Giants: Skattebo coming off injury.
Keaton Mitchell | Chargers: Wanted poster.
Woody Marks | Texans: Meh player, but easily the RB2 and can play pass downs.
Zach Charbonnet | Seahawks: Most likely won't return until November.
Tyjae Spears | Titans: Not an ideal offense, but offers pass-down chops.
Dylan Sampson | Browns: Bad offense, but he is the receiving option.
Alvin Kamara | Saints: Might be washed, but could handle pass downs.
Tyler Allgeier | Falcons: Didn't put in the clear-cut RB2 handcuff tier due to James Conner.

Tier 13 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

This grouping of RBs might not see the field often, but they offer upside as clear-cut handcuffs on strong offenses. They are ordered by offensive quality. May offer more upside than Tier 12 options if injury strikes for the starter.

Isiah Pacheco | Lions: Potential for TD spike weeks. Elite offense.
Tank Bigsby | Eagles: Fantastic o-line.
Brian Robinson | Falcons: Takes over the RB2 role with Allgeier gone.
Samaje Perine | Bengals: The RB2 no one remembers.

Tier 14 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Long-shot path to RB1 role without an injury to the starter, but hey, it could happen, y'all! These are better re-draft targets than bestball (at least for now).

Kaytron Allen | Commanders: Round 6 pick, but wide-open depth chart.
MarShawn Lloyd | Packers: Healthy so far, and Jacobs has legal issues.
Demond Claiborne | Vikings: Like the offense, and Mason/Jones have question marks.
James Conner | Cardinals: Trade candidate who could get scooped by an RB-needy team.
Nicholas Singleton | Titans: Offensive challenges, but Pollard/Mason aren't flawless.

Tier 15 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Pass-down backs with handcuff potential. (draftable even in best ball)

—

More handcuffs, but not as clear-cut as Tier 13. (better re-draft upside bets, but cheap in best ball)

—

Talented options in three-way splits.

Jaydon Blue | Cowboys: Positive offseason vibes, could grab pass-down role or more.
Justice Hill | Ravens: Pass-down option and maybe the RB2 if Henry goes down.
Emmett Johnson | Chiefs: Penciled in as RB2 but battling Emari Demercado.
___
Ray Davis | Bills: Massive spikes when Cook has missed.
Mike Washington | Raiders: The RB2 behind Jeanty.
Braelon Allen | Jets: Offensive questions, but the RB2. Isaiah Davis muddies things.
___
Jonah Coleman | Broncos: Needs two injuries for big upside, but well-rounded skill set.
Sean Tucker | Buccaneers: The RB3. Goal-line vulture.

Tier 16 Fantasy Football RBs for 2026

Camp Battles. This list is not exhaustive, but we will update it. Some of these names will climb into tiers above.

49ers: Kaelon Black vs Jordan James → RB2 role behind CMC
Chargers: Kimani Vidal vs Mitchell → RB2 role behind Hampton
Cowboys: Phil Mafah vs Malik Davis → Early-down role behind Williams
Colts: Seth McGowan vs DJ Giddens → RB2 role behind JT
Packers: Lloyd vs Chris Brooks → RB2 behind Jacobs; RB1 if Jacobs suspended
Ravens: Adam Randall vs Rasheen Ali → early-down role behind Henry
Seahawks: George Holani vs. Emanuel Wilson → RB2 role, maybe RB1 early-season if Price falters
Steelers: Kaleb Johnson vs Eli Heidenreich → RB3 role (Eli elite pass-down chops)
Titans: Spears vs Nicholas Singleton → early-down role behind Pollard

Players Mentioned in this Article

JahmyrGibbs
RBDET
PPG
19.2
Proj
320.9
BijanRobinson
RBATL
PPG
19.3
Proj
303.7
ChristianMcCaffrey
RBSF
PPG
20.9
Proj
299.0
JonathanTaylor
RBIND
PPG
19.7
Proj
281.4

Published Jul 14, 2026, 6:59 AM ETUpdated Jul 14, 2026, 12:30 PM ET