Fantasy analysts are turning their attention to the mid‑round running backs who might deliver outsized returns in 2026, especially as teams reshape backfields ahead of the next draft cycle.
Emerging Talent
Bhayshul Tuten is slated to battle Chris Rodriguez for the lead‑back role with the Jacksonville Jaguars, a competition that could determine his actual snap count. Last season Tuten posted a fifth‑ranked rushing success rate, an 11th‑ranked missed‑tackle rate and a 17th‑ranked yards‑after‑contact per attempt, numbers that signal a player capable of handling a larger workload.
Tony Pollard enters the 2026 season as the clear leadback for the Tennessee Titans, a position that aligns with his 15th‑ranked snap share, 17th‑ranked opportunity share and 16th‑ranked weighted opportunities a year ago. He also ranked 25th in explosive run rate and 22nd in yards after contact per attempt among backs who met the 49‑carry threshold, underscoring a blend of efficiency and big‑play potential.
Kenneth Gainwell proved to be a fantasy‑relevant piece down the stretch, finishing as RB7 in points per game with 13.3 touches and 85 total yards over Weeks 11‑18. He ranked third in target share, second in receiving yards per game and first in first downs per route run during that stretch, positioning him as a versatile weapon for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers alongside Bucky Irving.
Strategic Outlook
If the Jaguars, Titans or Buccaneers unlock the full potential of these backs, they could each deliver RB2 or better production in PPR formats, especially when factoring in the increasing value of pass‑catching backs. Drafting them in the middle rounds may therefore represent a high‑upside play for managers seeking a blend of upside and floor.