NFL
Spread

NFL Running Back Power Rankings 2026

Frank AmmiranteSenior Sports Writer
@FAmmiranteTFJ
Last Updated: Nov 3, 2026

With the Running Back position being one of the most valued one in the NFL, I thought it would be a good idea to create my list of the NFL running back power rankings. There are lots of talented running backs in the league, with even rookies getting early shots and being able to produce returns for their teams.

For that reason, I have chosen and analyzed the 50 top RBs in the league based on their age, skillset, their role in the team and in the game, as well as their potential. The idea is for you to better understand running back-friendly schemes and how they can help you.

Now, the list of my top 50 Running Backs for the 2026 NFL season based on my own power rankings.

NFL Running Back Power Rankings

NFL Running Back Power Rankings are updated as of November 3, 2026.

  1. Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions
  2. Bijan Robinson, Falcons
  3. Kenneth Walker, Falcons
  4. Christian McCaffrey, 49ers
  5. Jonathan Taylor, Colts
  6. Derrick Henry, Ravens
  7. James Cook, Bills
  8. Jaylen Warren, Steelers
  9. Bucky Irving, Buccaneers
  10. Bhayshul Tuten, Jaguars
  11. Kyren Williams, Rams
  12. Javonte Williams, Cowboys
  13. D’Andre Swift, Bears
  14. Chuba Hubbard, Panthers
  15. Braelon Allen, Jets

Risers

Here are running back risers.

Braelon Allen, Jets

Allen has emerged as one of the NFL’s most productive young running backs after taking on a larger role in the Jets’ offense. He’s rushed for 565 yards and three touchdowns through eight games, averaging an impressive 5.0 yards per carry. Allen is coming off his best performance of the season, rushing for 147 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries against the Raiders. He’s now topped 100 rushing yards in three of his last four games, making his rise up the rankings well-deserved.

Chuba Hubbard, Panthers

Hubbard has quietly put together a strong 2026 season despite Carolina’s inconsistent offense. He’s rushed for 540 yards and five touchdowns in seven games, averaging 4.6 yards per carry. Hubbard has surpassed 120 rushing yards twice this season, including a 122-yard, two-touchdown performance against Detroit. He also contributed 119 scrimmage yards and a touchdown against Green Bay in Week 8, showing his value as both a runner and receiver. His combination of steady production and a reliable workload has helped him climb the rankings.

Fallers

Here are running back fallers.

Omarion Hampton, Chargers

Hampton has been one of the biggest disappointments at running back after entering the season with high expectations. Through seven games, he’s rushed for just 309 yards and three touchdowns on 89 carries, averaging a disappointing 3.5 yards per attempt. He’s also contributed only 63 receiving yards while losing two fumbles. Hampton has been particularly ineffective lately, rushing for just 71 yards on 30 carries over his last three games. He managed only 20 yards on nine attempts against the Rams in Week 8, continuing a frustrating sophomore campaign.

Breece Hall, Jets

Hall has been one of the biggest fallers at running back after a disappointing start to the season and a lingering quad injury. He’s played just three games, rushing for 163 yards and one touchdown on 51 carries, averaging only 3.2 yards per attempt. Hall has now missed five consecutive games, allowing Braelon Allen to emerge as the Jets’ leading option in the backfield. Allen’s strong performances could also threaten Hall’s workload when he returns. Hall is expected back in Week 9, but his limited production, injury concerns, and increased competition have pushed him down the rankings.

NFL Running Back Power Rankings FAQs

Take a look at some additional questions about the NFL power rankings.

Who's the strongest running back in the NFL right now?
Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles, Bijan Robinson from the Atlanta Falcons, and Jahmyr Gibbs, who plays for the Detroit Lions, are currently among the top-ranked running backs in the NFL.
What RB has never fumbled?
There are plenty of running backs who haven’t recorded a fumble, but Tyler Allgeier is the one who has the most attempted carries (at 641) without recording a fumble.
Who was the strongest running back in NFL history?
Emmitt Smith is highly regarded as the strongest running back, being a staple of the Cowboys’ offense during the 90s and helping Dallas win three titles during that period.

Author

Frank Ammirante

Frank Ammirante is a Contributor at The Game Day. You will also see his work at RotoBaller, FantasyPros, ProFootballNetwork, and much more. Frank is a member of the Fantasy Sports Writer's Association while maintaining an active presence within the community. He has competed in industry contests like the Tout Wars, Scott Fish Bowl, The Great Fantasy Baseball Invitational, and more. He's got a diverse sporting background, but specializes in football and baseball.

Related articles

Promotions

Spend $5, Get $200 in Bonuses + 3 Months of NBA League Pass

5 stars

Bet $5, Get $500 in No Sweats Bets

5 stars

Get $150 in Bonus Bets when you wager $5 for 3 days

5 stars

Get A Bonus Bet Up To $250

5 stars

Bet $20, Get $350 FanCash

5 stars

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.

21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, DC, IL, IN, LA, MD, MS, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY).

Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS, NV), 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI).

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD).

21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Eligibility restrictions apply.

All betting content on TheGameDay.com is exclusively intended for audience members 21 years and older who are permitted to gamble in legal states. The Game Day may earn revenue from site visitor referrals to betting services.

Responsible Gaming: Many sportsbooks offer ways to encourage responsible gaming, including the establishment of limits to deposits, spending, and time dedicated to betting.

The Game Day is a TGD Marketing Ltd. endeavor.