The 2026 NFL training camps are approaching and ESPN surveyed league executives, coaches and scouts to rank the top 10 players at 11 positions, including running back, according to ESPN. More than 70 voters submitted ballots for at least one position for the seventh edition of the annual rankings, which were compiled using top-10 votes, composite averages, interviews, research and film study.
ESPN released the running back results on July 6 as part of a multi-day rollout of position rankings. Voters were asked to identify the best players right now, not to make five-year projections or hand out career achievement awards, according to ESPN.
Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons was rated No. 1 in the ESPN survey. Robinson edged Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs in a tight vote, winning with a composite average of 1.78 despite Gibbs receiving nearly as many first-place votes, according to ESPN. Robinson led the NFL with 2,498 yards from scrimmage in 2025, breaking William Andrews’ 1983 franchise record of 2,176. He became one of three Falcons — along with Andrews and Julio Jones — to lead the league in scrimmage yards. An NFC executive cited Robinson’s ability to create positive runs and praised his bend, feet, agility, size and pass-protection, and noted his 820 yards on 79 catches in 2025 as evidence of his receiving skills.
Jahmyr Gibbs ranked No. 2 in the ESPN survey. Multiple voters placed Gibbs at the top, and an NFL coordinator described his vision, pace and ability to accelerate past defenders. Gibbs’ 18 touchdowns in 2025 are the second-most in a single season in Lions history, trailing his own 20 touchdowns in 2024, according to ESPN. An NFC executive noted Gibbs has 39 rushing touchdowns in three years while splitting time.
ESPN’s report also noted that the running-back market has strengthened in recent years. After discussions among star backs three years ago, contract values have risen; Christian McCaffrey and Saquon Barkley signed deals worth $19 million and $20.6 million per year from 2024 to 2025, and three more backs signed contracts between $14 million and $16 million this offseason, according to ESPN. ESPN added that 24-year-olds Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs figure to play prominent roles in the market moving forward.
