The Boston College running backs room will look markedly different in 2026. Turbo Richard, Jordan McDonald and Alex Broome have all departed, leaving a void at the heart of the rushing attack that the coaching staff must now address.
Enter Evan Dickens, a former Liberty standout who arrives with a reputation as a workhorse. In his last season in Conference USA he logged 229 carries for 1,285 yards, ranking 14th nationally, and added 16 touchdowns while averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Dickens is expected to shoulder the bulk of the workload and become the lead back for the Eagles.
Complementing Dickens is Nolan Ray, a 6‑foot‑1, 212‑pound back who brings a blend of size and receiving ability. Ray has 22 career receptions and is being earmarked for a third‑down role, giving the offense a versatile option in passing situations.
Returning Depth and Freshman Promise
Bo MacCormack III and Mekhi Dodd return after showing flashes of potential as freshmen. MacCormack recorded 15 carries for 43 yards and a touchdown last season, while Dodd’s contributions were similarly modest but indicative of upside. Both are expected to provide depth and could break out if given increased opportunities.
Adding to the mix is Sedric Addison, an incoming freshman who enrolled in January and has already impressed coaches with his early work ethic and skill set. Addison’s arrival could inject fresh energy into the backfield and push the existing roster toward higher productivity.
The overall perception among analysts is that the Boston College running back group is the offensive position most likely to succeed in 2026. If the offensive line can create consistent gaps, the combination of Dickens’s power running, Ray’s dual‑threat capabilities, and the returning depth could transform the rushing attack into a reliable weapon.
Quarterback Mason McKenzie, who is also a potent rushing threat, adds another dimension to the offense, potentially allowing the backfield to thrive in play‑action and read‑option schemes. The synergy between the quarterback and the new stable of backs could be a decisive factor in the team’s offensive efficiency.
While the roster’s broader improvements remain uncertain, the focus on the running backs reflects a strategic intent to build a balanced attack. If the line clicks and the backs stay healthy, the Eagles could see a significant uplift in their ground game, positioning them for a more competitive season.