Rising Stars at Running Back
As the 2026 season approaches, fantasy enthusiasts are mapping out early‑round strategies, and running backs remain the most coveted assets in the draft.
Derek Brown, a veteran evaluator of the position, points to Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons as the most compelling candidate, noting his RB2 finish last year and a projected increase in goal‑line work that could push him to the top of the RB1 conversation.
Another name on Brown’s radar is Detroit Lions’ Jahmyr Gibbs, who closed the previous campaign as RB3 and surged in usage after Week 10, especially in the passing game, making him a dual‑threat in PPR formats.
Brown also sees upside in Ashton Jeanty of the Las Vegas Raiders, whose rookie year fell short of expectations but whose talent pool and coaching environment suggest a rebound could be imminent.
James Cook III of the Buffalo Bills continues to dominate the ground game, having led the NFL in rushing yards last season and remaining a cornerstone of one of the league’s most potent offenses.
Finally, Omarion Hampton of the Los Angeles Chargers showed flashes of brilliance in his first four games before a injury halted his rookie campaign, yet the metrics from those appearances indicate a player who could break out with a full slate of snaps.
Draft Strategy Implications
For owners looking to build a balanced roster, targeting these five backs early can provide a solid foundation, especially when paired with a flexible flex strategy that accommodates the evolving scoring landscape.