The 2025-2026 NFL season is loaded with storylines, but a big one? Which running backs are about to put their entire team on their shoulders and say, “Don’t worry, I got this.” From bruisers to burners to all-purpose dynamos, these backs are built to carry the load—whether it’s racking up yards, scoring touchdowns, or keeping defenses honest.
These guys aren’t just part of their team’s offense—they are the offense. If things go right, their squads will ride their legs to January. Here are the running backs most likely to carry their teams this season.
13. Najee Harris, Los Angeles Chargers
Now in L.A., Najee brings his tough, no-nonsense running style to a team in transition. The Chargers will count on him to set the tone and eat up carries as they reshape their offensive identity.
12. Tony Pollard, Tennessee Titans
Pollard has a real chance to shine in Tennessee, and a full-time role is finally in his hands. After sharing touches for most of his career, he’s ready to show what he can do as the main man.
11. James Conner, Arizona Cardinals
Conner keeps producing and quietly topped 1,000 yards again last year. Arizona loves his ability to grind out tough yards and keep the chains moving.
10. Ashton Jeanty, Las Vegas Raiders
Jeanty enters the league with high expectations and a golden opportunity. The Raiders will give him every chance to be their offensive engine right out of the gate.
9. Chuba Hubbard, Carolina Panthers
Hubbard quietly became the most reliable player on a chaotic Panthers offense. With more changes coming, he’s the steady force Carolina will lean on again.
8. Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh Steelers
Warren runs like he’s got something to prove—and he probably still does. The Steelers’ offense will need his toughness and balance more than ever this season.
7. Bucky Irving, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa found lightning in a bottle with Bucky Irving last year. He breaks tackles like it’s his job (because it is), and he’ll be a significant piece of their 2025 plan.
6. Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers
When McCaffrey is healthy, he’s still one of the best in the game—simple as that. The Niners trust him to be their engine, whether on the ground or catching passes out of the backfield.
5. Josh Jacobs, Green Bay Packers
Jacobs brings a bruising style and a reliable workload to Green Bay. He might get more touches with questions elsewhere on the offense than ever.
4. Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions
Gibbs is the definition of electric, and the Lions know it. Expect Detroit to design the whole offense around his ability to make defenders miss.
Read More: 15 Running Backs Who Didn’t Live Up to the College Hype
3. Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons
Bijan is the total package—fast, strong, shifty, and smooth in the passing game. The Falcons are building their identity around him, and it’s working.
Read More: 15 Running Backs Who Beat the Age Curve (Against All Odds)
2. Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles
When Barkley is rolling, everything opens up for Philly. He’s the kind of back who can take over a game—and maybe a season.
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1. Derrick Henry, Baltimore Ravens
Even with a new team and extra mileage, Derrick Henry is still that dude. Baltimore will feed him early and often, because when he’s rolling, there’s not much defense that can do.
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