The 2026 NFL Draft features a lackluster running back class, led by Jeremiyah Love, who is expected to be a reliable first-round pick. Following him, Jadarian Price from Notre Dame is anticipated to be the second running back selected.
Key points
2026 NFL Draft features a weak running back class
Jeremiyah Love is the top running back prospect
Jadarian Price is expected to be the second running back selected
Love is compared to recent first-round picks
Top teams have options among the top running backs
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:
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
jadarian price
jadarian price
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. Jadarian Price, Notre Dame (5-11, 203 pounds)
Price is a nifty quick runner who follows his blocks well and is adept at making the most of even the smallest holes. He would be ideal in a zone-blocking scheme but can thrive anywhere as a complementary back with his style.
Don't be fooled by his smallish frame. Coleman plays bigger and stronger than his size in the vein of Frank Gore. Although he has limited explosiveness to pull off home run plays, he can knock out chunk runs with some toughness after initial contact.
Washington has worked his way up boards by showing well-rounded qualities to run effectively inside or outside with a little bit of juice once he gets into the open field. He is a big runner who operates more like a smaller, shiftier one.
Draft projection: Late second round to third round
McGown is a bit like LeGarrett Blount with his combination of power and big-run ability but he needs to shore up liabilities with ball security and pass protection to get enough chances to display that juice.
Johnson is a steady, compact runner who can flash some extra zip. He has strong hands to protect the ball and contribute as a receiver. He is most dangerous once he can break through holes and get into open field.
Allen is the better of the two Nittany Lions prospects with some compact running in the Johnson mold and also will be valued to help out as pass blocker and receiver.
Claiborne is a tough runner with good quickness but he's best suited running for chunks on the perimeter as chance of pace who flashes home-run explosiveness.
Singleton does a lot of little things well, like his former college teammate Allen, but his role in the NFL might be best suited as a bigger change of pace who has some impact as a receiver on third downs.
Heidenreich is an intriguing fullback hybrid with some explosive receiving qualities to go with some tough power running and blocking. A team will need to be creative in getting him on the field as a straight-up offensive weapon. He has surprised many with his flat-out track speed in the process.
