Full Breakdown
Early Insights into the 2026 Fantasy Football Running Back Rankings
1/6/2026, 11:59:15 PM
Overview of Rankings
As the 2026 NFL season approaches, early rankings for running backs have emerged, reflecting the performances of the 2025 season and potential offseason changes. CBS Sports staff members have provided their top twelve running backs, which may shift due to free agency and the NFL Draft.
Top Running Back Rankings
The consensus among CBS Sports analysts places Bijan Robinson at the forefront, followed closely by Jahmyr Gibbs and De'Von Achane. The rankings are as follows:
1. Bijan Robinson
2. Jahmyr Gibbs
3. De'Von Achane
4. Christian McCaffrey
5. Jonathan Taylor
6. James Cook
7. Omarion Hampton
8. Chase Brown
9. Josh Jacobs
10. Ashton Jeanty
11. Derrick Henry
12. Saquon Barkley
Notably, different analysts have variations in their rankings. For instance, Adam Aizer ranks Omarion Hampton and RJ Harvey highly, while Heath Cummings includes Travis Etienne, who had a strong 2025 season but faces uncertainty regarding his contract status.
Key Player Performances
Derrick Henry, despite concerns about his age at 32, had a notable 2025 season, averaging 15.7 PPR points per game and finishing with 1,595 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. Analysts acknowledge the skepticism surrounding his longevity but still consider him a viable Round 2 pick if he continues playing.
Omarion Hampton, who missed significant time due to injury in 2025, is projected to be a top pick due to his performance when healthy. He scored at least 14.7 PPR points in five of nine games. Similarly, RJ Harvey's late-season surge, scoring at least 18.6 PPR points in four of his last six games, positions him as a potential Round 2 target.
Christian McCaffrey's performance remains a focal point, as he led non-quarterbacks with 23.8 PPR points per game in 2025. However, concerns about his age and heavy workload raise questions about his draft position.
Analyst Perspectives
While there is a general consensus on the top running backs, individual analysts express differing opinions on specific players. For example, Jacob Gibbs uniquely ranks Cam Skattebo in his top twelve, highlighting Skattebo's impressive rookie performance before an ankle injury. Analysts are eager to see how coaching changes may affect player usage in the upcoming season.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the rankings of certain players, particularly with Travis Etienne, who is included by some analysts but not others. Additionally, the potential impact of free agency on player rankings remains uncertain, as offseason moves could significantly alter the landscape.
Conclusion
The early 2026 running back rankings provide a glimpse into the anticipated landscape of fantasy football, with a mix of established stars and emerging talents. As the offseason unfolds, these rankings are likely to evolve, influenced by player movements and team strategies. Fantasy managers will need to stay informed to make the best decisions in their drafts.
