Up next in our collaborative efforts, Last Word on NFL has come up with running back rankings for each of the eight divisions. While the nerds on Twitter would like to tell you that running backs don’t matter, there are some serious, game-breaking talents lining up behind their quarterbacks. While we haven’t had a running back win the MVP since Adrian Peterson in 2012, it’s not for lack of trying. From 1,000-yard rushers to rookies making late breakout campaigns, the running back position is in great hands heading into 2026.
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Last Word on NFL’s Official 2026 Running Back Rankings by Division
AFC North
According to Drew VonScio
“AFC North running backs have earned the reputation for being tough and, as the kids say these days, built different. The division has maintained its tough, gritty nature, where running the football leads to success. All four teams in the division need to have a strong run game in order to even have a chance at claiming the division title.
With training camp just a few weeks away, it’s time to break down the best AFC North running backs ahead of the 2026 season…” READ MORE
AFC South
According to Grant Potter
“The AFC South running backs are a talented group of players, including one of the best running backs in the NFL and multiple consistently productive players. Here are the five best AFC South running backs for the 2026 NFL season…” READ MORE
AFC East
According to Michael Zimmelman
“The AFC East running backs have been the key performers on offense for the division. Entering 2026, the AFC East reminds fans how important a strong running game is in a league focused on passing. New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has the benefit of two talented running backs in the backfield who helped the Patriots return to the Super Bowl.
Former MVP quarterback Josh Allen may be the star in upstate New York, but he’s joined by one of the best running backs in the league in his backfield. While 2025 as a whole didn’t go their way, the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins have stellar running backs as well. Let’s review the AFC East running backs heading into the 2026 season…” READ MORE
AFC West
According to Mike Roberts
“Who are the best AFC West running backs right now? Yes, the division has a couple of star quarterbacks like the Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and the Los Angeles Chargers’ Justin Herbert. But it’s time to look at the guys a team can hand the ball off to and expect to move the chains when needed. Here are the five best AFC West running backs for the upcoming season…” READ MORE
NFC North
According to Austin Ambler
“2025 was a good year for the NFC North with two teams making the playoffs (Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears), with a third (Detroit Lions) just missing out. The top running backs in the division feature an exciting mix of young rookies and aging veterans. Here are the best NFC North Running Backs for 2026…” READ MORE
NFC South
According to Liam Rebellato
“The NFC South is home to some of the NFL’s most talented running backs entering the 2026 season. From established stars to rising playmakers, several backs have positioned themselves among the best at their position.
Based on production, talent, and overall impact, here are the top NFC South running backs for the 2026 season…” READ MORE
NFC East
According to Zach Wolpin
“For the 2026 season, there were hardly any changes to running back depth charts in the NFC East. Most teams in the division were comfortable with the players they already had. The Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys have bellcow running backs who see a large workload each week. However, the New York Giants and Washington Commanders had split backfields in 2025. Next, we’ll rank the top NFC East Running Backs for the 2026 season…” READ MORE
NFC West
According to Drew Crabtree
“NFC West running backs have led the way in the NFL for quite a while. In total, since the award began in 1972, there have been eight NFL Offensive Player of the Year Awards given to running backs in the division, including one current player. All in all, the division used two first-round picks on running backs this past year. Plus, there are two who seemingly stand above the rest, and there’s one potential Hall of Famer.
Heading into the 2026 season, there’s an arms race in the division. The Seattle Seahawks are set to try and go back-to-back, while the Los Angeles Rams made the single-biggest splash trade of the offseason by securing the best defender in the league. While the running back position isn’t the most valuable anymore, there are some studs in the NFC West. Let’s continue Last Word’s series and rank the top five heading into 2026…” READ MORE
Main Image: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
