The NFC running back picture is crowded with talent heading into 2026, and a few of these backs have the kind of ceiling that could put them in the NFL Offensive Player of the Year conversation. Under the right circumstances, some could even push into the MVP mix.
That kind of depth makes the top end of the conference tough to sort through, but it also makes the race fascinating. Every team’s lead back brings something different, and the early-season pecking order already has plenty of debate built into it.
At the bottom of this updated NFC ranking is Seattle’s new lead runner, rookie Jadarian Price. The Seahawks made the bold move to part ways with Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker this offseason and are turning the backfield over to Price.
He brings size, speed, and explosive playmaking, and with Zach Charbonnet sidelined while he recovers from a knee injury, the workload is lined up for Price to carry the offense on the ground. He never operated as the featured back at Notre Dame, but he’ll open his NFL career as the unquestioned RB1 for the reigning Super Bowl champion.
Funny how that works, isn't it?
Just ahead of him is another rookie with massive expectations in Arizona. Jeremiyah Love went third overall in this year’s draft, and that alone puts a spotlight on him from day one.
The talent is obvious, but draft status doesn’t guarantee instant production at running back, and Love will still have to earn everything he gets. Like Ashton Jeanty last year, he’s going to have to prove he can translate the hype into results.
The question now is whether the situation around him will let that happen. Given the supporting cast, it wouldn’t be a surprise if his old Notre Dame teammate Jadarian Price posts better rookie numbers.
Minnesota lands at No. 14 with Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason sharing the load in a tandem that doesn’t exactly jump off the page. The Vikings have them listed as co-starters, and while the duo may not scream star power, it did produce in 2025.
Jones was limited to 12 games, but together they still piled up more than 1,500 yards from scrimmage and combined for nine touchdowns. Jones remains the primary receiving threat out of the backfield, but as a pair, they look more solid than scary.
Washington checks in next with Jacory Croskey-Merritt, better known as “Bill.” The rookie topped 800 rushing yards and scored eight touchdowns for the Commanders, and he also didn’t hurt himself doing the Ice Bucket Challenge.
Washington added Rachaad White to handle some of the pass-catching responsibilities, which puts a little more pressure on Croskey-Merritt to grow in that area after catching just nine passes in 17 games last season. Even so, his 4.6 yards per carry as a rookie gave the Commanders a real glimpse of RB1 potential, and 2026 gives him a chance to lock that role down.
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Titans Roster Projection Hints At A Familiar QB Shift After Seahawks Game
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