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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
These rankings are based solely on the idea of who is the most talented right now. It doesn’t look at upside, and who could potentially have a breakout season. It’s simply a matter of which player currently gives their team the best chance to win.<\/p>\n
The Pittsburgh Steelers<\/a> signed Rico Dowdle in the offseason, following new head coach Mike McCarthy<\/a> to Pittsburgh from the Dallas Cowboys<\/a>. The organization brought him in on a two-year deal worth $12.25 million<\/a> to help provide some depth in the running back room.<\/p>\n Dowdle surpassed 1,000 rushing yards last season and scored six touchdowns on the ground for the Cowboys. He’s not the type of player to change a game by himself as a workhorse running back. However, Dowdle can certainly be valuable when his snaps are limited, and his team finds ways to keep him fresh. He’s the best “backup” running back in the division by far, earning his spot in the rankings.<\/p>\n Jaylen Warren is the other half of the duo in the running back room. Last season was the first time he was the top half of the 1-2 punch for the Steelers after previously being on the other side of things with Najee Harris. Warren finished last season with 958 yards and six touchdowns.<\/p>\n Warren is the 1A for Pittsburgh as things stand now, which is why he lands just above Dowdle. He’s not the type of player who can singlehandedly win his team a game, but Warren is capable of making an impact for the Steelers. That’s why he comes in at No. 4 on the AFC North running backs list.<\/p>\n We now move into the top three, all of which are players who could win the game for their respective teams by themselves. If this list was built based on upside and potential to become a superstar, Quinshon Judkins would be at the top of the list. However, after a season with the Cleveland Browns<\/a> where he finished with just 827 yards and seven touchdowns, he comes in at the middle of the rankings.<\/p>\n4. Jaylen Warren<\/h3>\n
3. Quinshon Judkins<\/h3>\n