Top RBs in the '26 Draft Ranked

Experts analyze the top running back prospects ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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NFL analysts Matt Williamson, Mike Prisuta, and Max Starks break down the top running back prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class, led by Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love. The experts discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the top RB prospects, including Love, Jadarian Price, Jonah Coleman, Mike Washington Jr., and Emmett Johnson.

Why it matters

Running backs have become increasingly important in the NFL in recent years, with several top-10 picks spent on the position. This year's class is headlined by a potential elite prospect in Jeremiyah Love, who could be one of the first players off the board in April.

The details

The analysts agree that Love is the clear RB1 in this class, praising his explosiveness, home run ability, and well-rounded skill set. After Love, the experts see a bit of a drop-off, with Notre Dame's Jadarian Price, Washington's Jonah Coleman, Arkansas' Mike Washington Jr., and Nebraska's Emmett Johnson rounding out the top five. Penn State's Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen also received strong consideration.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will be held in Pittsburgh in April.

The players

Jeremiyah Love

A 6-0, 212 lb. running back from Notre Dame who is considered the consensus top prospect at the position in this year's draft class.

Jadarian Price

A 5-11, 203 lb. running back from Notre Dame who complemented Love in the Fighting Irish backfield.

Jonah Coleman

A 5-8, 220 lb. bowling ball of a running back from Washington known for his tackle-breaking ability.

Mike Washington Jr.

A 6-1, 223 lb. running back from Arkansas who impressed at the NFL Combine with a 4.33 40-yard dash.

Emmett Johnson

A 5-10, 202 lb. running back from Nebraska who led FBS in all-purpose yards in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“In a league in which explosive plays are of paramount importance, Love has tremendous value. Not only can he handle a big workload as a runner, but he has elite home run abilities as both a runner and receiver-and he is a fantastic receiving option. Guys like Love don't come around very often.”

— Matt Williamson, NFL Analyst (statenews.net)

“Jeremiyah Love is the consensus head of the running back class, and he's being consistently mocked among the first 10 selections.”

— Mike Prisuta, NFL Analyst (statenews.net)

“Jeremiyah Love is the do it all back and top-tier running back in this year's crop of RB's. His explosiveness and breakaway speed make him a clear cut choice for the top of this year's draft for any team looking for a running back upgrade.”

— Max Starks, NFL Analyst (statenews.net)

The takeaway

This year's running back draft class is headlined by a potential elite prospect in Jeremiyah Love, who could be one of the first players off the board in April. However, the experts see a bit of a drop-off after Love, with a handful of other intriguing options that could provide value on Day 2 or 3 of the draft for teams in need of a backfield upgrade.