Bills to Rely on Powerful Run Game in 2026

James Cook leads a deep backfield as Buffalo looks to take pressure off Josh Allen

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:21pm

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The Buffalo Bills' offense in 2026 is expected to lean heavily on their elite running game, led by perennial Pro Bowler James Cook, rather than solely relying on star quarterback Josh Allen. With a trio of talented running backs including Cook, Ty Johnson, and Ravis Davis, the Bills boast one of the NFL's top rushing attacks as they aim to take some of the pressure off Allen.

Why it matters

The Bills' shift to a more balanced offensive approach, with a dominant run game complementing Allen's passing abilities, could make them even more formidable in the AFC. Reducing Allen's workload could also help keep the star QB fresh for the playoffs as Buffalo seeks its first Super Bowl title.

The details

Last season, the Bills and Ravens tied for the NFL's best rushing offense, averaging 156.6 yards per game. With James Cook coming off a career-best 1,621 rushing yards in 2025, the Bills have a true workhorse back to build around. Ty Johnson and Ravis Davis provide a nice change-of-pace and short-yardage options behind Cook in the backfield.

  • The Bills finished the 2025 season as the joint-best rushing team in the NFL, averaging 156.6 yards per game.
  • James Cook is coming off a career-best 1,621 rushing yards in 2025.

The players

James Cook

A perennial Pro Bowler and 1,000-yard rusher, Cook is expected to be the focal point of the Bills' powerful run game in 2026.

Ty Johnson

A nice third-down back and short-yardage option who will complement Cook in the Bills' backfield.

Ravis Davis

Maintains a small but often effective role in the Bills' deep and talented running back room.

Josh Allen

The Bills' star quarterback, who will benefit from the reduced workload as the team leans more on its rushing attack.

Joe Brady

The Bills' new head coach, who is expected to emphasize the team's run game to take pressure off Allen.

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What they’re saying

“The Bills enter 2026 with the NFL's top rushing offense, and last year they racked up more touchdowns (30) than any other team.”

— Carter Bahns, CBS Sports Analyst

“Of course, Josh Allen is a huge catalyst here and effectively serves as the second option in a four-man ground game, but not even his efforts as a volume ballcarrier could prevent James Cook from pacing the league with a career-best 1,621 yards in 2025.”

— Carter Bahns, CBS Sports Analyst

What’s next

The Bills will look to continue their dominant rushing attack in the 2026 season as they aim to capture their first Super Bowl championship.

The takeaway

The Bills' shift to a more balanced offensive approach, with a powerful run game complementing Josh Allen's passing abilities, could make them an even more formidable force in the AFC as they seek to end their Super Bowl drought.