The Backfield Landscape for 2026
The early buzz around the 2026 fantasy season centers on which players will see enough touches to justify their average draft position, and among the most debated are the running backs whose workloads appear precarious. RJ Harvey entered the league as a second‑round pick in 2025 and managed 146 carries for 540 yards and seven touchdowns, a production that translated to a modest 3.6 yards per attempt.
His impact was limited further by the arrival of J.K. Dobbins, who logged seven more carries and over 230 additional rushing yards, and by the Broncos’ aggressive moves in free agency, including a trade for Jaylen Waddle and the selection of pass‑catching rookie Jonah Coleman. Those additions suggest a committee approach that could compress Harvey’s snap count.
De’Von Achane’s outlook is similarly uncertain. He will operate under a defensive‑minded head coach and an offensive coordinator whose unit ranks only middling in efficiency. The team’s new starter, Malik Willis, is known for his scrambling ability, which may divert attention from the ground game. At receiver, Jalen Tolbert currently leads the depth chart until Chris Bell returns from a torn ACL, adding another variable to play‑calling decisions.
Jeremiyah Love, touted as the most talented back the Cardinals have possessed since David Johnson, faces a crowded backfield. He must share snaps with veterans James Conner and Tyler Allgeier, as well as rookie Trey Benson. The Cardinals’ offensive line, ranked near the bottom of the league, further complicates his prospects, making a breakout season less certain despite his raw ability.
For fantasy owners, the common thread is clear: each of these backs is situated in an environment where touches are likely to be limited by committee dynamics, coaching philosophy, or roster depth. While upside remains, the risk of under‑performance is high enough that many draft analysts recommend steering clear until clearer role definitions emerge.