The countdown to the 2026 NFL season is already generating buzz among fantasy football enthusiasts, who are scouring rosters for hidden gems and breakout candidates. While established stars continue to command attention, a new wave of running backs is emerging with the potential to reshape draft strategies and league outcomes.
The Workhorse in Los Angeles
Omarion Hampton of the Los Angeles Chargers, limited to a modest rookie campaign by injury, is now slated for a heavy workload. Analysts project him as the RB11 in ESPN PPR formats, citing his size, receiving skill set, and first‑round pedigree as factors that could translate into a three‑down role and a substantial share of touches.
A New Lead in Las Vegas
Ashton Jeanty, the Las Vegas Raiders’ 2025 first‑round pick, has been labeled the RB6 in early rankings. His blend of receiving involvement, scoring ability, and the likelihood of a full‑time starter’s snap count fuels speculation that he could ascend to the overall RB1 spot by season’s end.
Value Pick in Jacksonville
Bhayshul Tuten of the Jacksonville Jaguars enters the conversation after a rookie season that yielded 307 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Clocking a 4.32 40‑yard dash, his speed and the departure of Travis Etienne open a clear path to a larger share of carries, making him an attractive RB24 value pick.
Late‑Season Surge in Chicago
Kyle Monangai of the Chicago Bears showed a marked uptick in production during the final stretch of the 2025‑2026 campaign. He averaged 12.7 carries per game over the last ten weeks and posted double‑digit fantasy points on six occasions, suggesting a rising floor that could translate into a reliable mid‑tier starter.
The convergence of these narratives underscores a deeper talent pool at running back, offering fantasy managers a spectrum of options from high‑upside breakout stars to undervalued assets. As training camps open and preseason games unfold, the upcoming weeks will likely refine these projections, setting the stage for a season that could redefine the running back landscape.