Ranking the 10 best running backs in 2026 NFL Draft, from Jeremiyah Love to Eli Heidenreich
The 2026 NFL Draft class at running back has only one first-rounder with a big dropoff to his college teammate after that. After an active free agency period for the position, here's looking at the top options to fill remaining backfield holes this offseason.
Ranking the 10 best running backs in 2026 NFL Draft, from Jeremiyah Love to Eli Heidenreich originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The 2026 running back class won't go down as one of the best.
But it does have a top back in Jeremiyah Love who can stack up with recent first-rounders such as Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton. Love seems to have endless options among the top 10 teams picking, but he is bound to give that team a reliable, well-rounded workhorse for many seasons to come. Once Love is gone, the wait might be a little long for the No.
2 back — his Notre Dame teammate Jadarian Price — to come off the board. Here's breaking down the top of an overall weak group: MORE: Sporting News' complete 7-round mock draft Ranking the 10 best running backs in 2026 NFL Draft 1. Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame (6-0, 212 pounds) Love is a powerful, explosive runner who is just as adept at pounding well between the tackles and bursting for big gains outside.
He possesses rare strength, balance and vision. He can also stay on the field for third downs to contribute wherever needed in the passing game. Draft projection: Early first round 2.