2026 NFL Draft RB Rankings & Tiers: Jeremiyah Love Tops Explosive Running Back Class

Many of the running backs in this class will be starters and will be electric, with Day 2 potentially loaded with high-end talent.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The 2026 NFL Draft will feature a strong class of running backs, with Jeremiyah Love of Notre Dame projected as the top back and a likely top 10 pick. The class has depth, with several other prospects like Nicholas Singleton, Jadarian Price, Jonah Coleman, and Emmett Johnson expected to be selected on Day 2. Beyond the top tiers, the draft also features a number of running backs with potential to be starters or high-end backups in the NFL.

Why it matters

Running backs are always a key position for fantasy football, and this class appears to have several potential stars that could make an immediate impact at the next level. The depth of the class also means teams will have options to find quality running back talent throughout the draft.

The details

The top tier is led by Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame, who is projected as a top 10 pick. The second tier includes Nicholas Singleton (Penn State), Jadarian Price (Notre Dame), Jonah Coleman (Washington), and Emmett Johnson (Nebraska) - all of whom are expected to be selected on Day 2 of the draft or potentially sneak into the backend of the first round. The third tier features players like Demond Claiborne, Kaytron Allen, J'Mari Taylor, and others who have the potential to be starters but could also end up as secondary backs. The fourth tier includes more developmental prospects who could be high-end handcuffs or potential busts.

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

The players

Jeremiyah Love

The clear top running back in the 2026 NFL Draft class, projected to be a top 10 pick.

Nicholas Singleton

A high-upside running back prospect expected to be selected on Day 2 of the draft.

Jadarian Price

A versatile and skilled running back from Notre Dame who could go even higher in drafts if not for being overshadowed by teammate Jeremiyah Love.

Jonah Coleman

May not be the most physically gifted running back, but is viewed as the second-best in the class based on his film and football IQ.

Emmett Johnson

Has incredible vision and is locked into the second tier of running backs that are viewed as sure-fire NFL stars.

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The takeaway

This 2026 NFL Draft class is loaded with running back talent, with several prospects who could make an immediate fantasy impact as starters or high-end backups. The depth of the class means teams will have options to find quality running back talent throughout the draft.