Highest-drafted RBs since 2000: How Jeremiyah Love can join Saquon Barkley, Reggie Bush, more in select company

Highest-drafted RBs since 2000: How Jeremiyah Love can join Saquon Barkley, Reggie Bush, more in select company originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . Running backs, across NFL history, have not been one of the more valued positions — both in free agency and in the draft.

Considering that most data will show an average running back can produce well behind a dominant offensive line, most teams invest their largest contracts on quarterbacks, receivers, defensive lineman or offensive lineman. But there are exceptions to that philosophy of not using premiere draft picks on a running back, especially when a special prospect comes around. In 2026, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love — simultaneously viewed as one of the most electric and safest players available — is expected to become a top-10 pick, if not a top-5 selection.

Should that happen, he'd join an exclusive list full of elite running backs in the 21st century who were drafted with a high slot. Here's a look at the highest-drafted running backs in the NFL since 2000. MORE 2026 NFL DRAFT: Complete 7-round mock draft Trade predictions for the first round Where will each quarterback go in 2026 draft?

Highest-drafted RBs since 2000 Since 2000, there have been 17 running backs to go in the top-10 of the NFL Draft. Here's a look at each of those selections. Jamal Lewis, 2000, No.