Execs, coaches, scouts rank top NFL running backs for 2026 - ESPN

The 2026 NFL training camps are on the horizon, and with that in mind, ESPN surveyed league executives, coaches and scouts to help us rank the top 10 players at 11 different positions. This is the seventh edition of these annual rankings.

Here's how it works: Voters gave their own top 10 players at a position, then we compiled the results and ranked candidates based on the number of top-10 votes, composite average and dozens of interviews, with research and film study help from ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen as well as ESPN Research. More than 70 voters submitted a ballot on at least one position, and in many cases all positions. Additional voting and follow-up calls with those surveyed contributed to placements.

This was not a five-year projection or a career achievement award, but meant to answer a simple question: Who are the best players right now?

Our rollout schedule: running backs (July 6), cornerbacks (July 7), edge rushers (July 8), defensive tackles (July 9), tight ends (July 10), offensive tackles (July 11), interior offensive linemen (July 12), quarterbacks (July 13), off-ball linebackers (July 14), wide receivers (July 15) and safeties (July 16).

Three years ago, star running backs met over videoconference to discuss the depressed state of their positional market. Their prospects have since improved. From 2024 to 2025, Christian McCaffrey and Saquon Barkley signed respective deals worth $19 and $20.6 million per year. This offseason, three more backs earned contracts between $14 million and $16 million. And a pair of 24-year-old stars — Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs — will reset that market soon enough while they battle for ball-toting supremacy for years to come.

A mix of talented young and veteran stars