The running back position is very different from what it used to be. Previously, you would have one running back who would be on the field for most offensive plays. And guess what, everyone knew who the number one running back was. There was a clear depth chart, and maybe you had a third-down running back to catch a few passes, but that was it. We were going after running backs who carried the ball 20-25 times per game. Now, things are very different. As we look to evaluate the running back position for the 2026 fantasy football season, let’s take a dive through some advanced statistics and metrics. Whether or not it uncovers hidden value or simply validates our current beliefs, there is some clear value.
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Upside Metrics: Running Backs
Breece Hall, New York Jets
Now the proud owner of a new contract, let’s see, at age 25, if Hall can build on last season. For the first time in his career, Hall broke the 1,000-yard mark (1,065) while averaging 4.4 yards per carry. The former second-round pick is now entering his fifth NFL season, and it feels like we are still waiting on him to reach his potential.
A large portion of the problem throughout Hall’s career, and also last season, has been the overall state of the Jets’ offense. Whether it’s from a running or receiving perspective, though, there are a lot of areas in which Hall does stand out from his peers. After also catching 36 passes for 350 yards and a touchdown last year, maybe Hall hits the 2,000-yard mark this season?
- Broken Tackle – 19.3%
- Positive Run – 81.1%
- Average Yards After the Catch – 9.2
The last metric is not notable to me, as Hall was never truly targeted downfield. If that changes alone, we could see a surge in yardage as Hall truly had to earn everything he got as a receiver.
Derrick Henry, Baltimore Ravens
Yes, Henry is another year older (32) and is not a factor in the passing game, but should we hold either against him? Last season, Henry rushed for 16 touchdowns for the second straight season while averaging 5.2 yards per carry and gaining 1,595 yards. Yes, there is some level of disadvantage in PPR leagues, but ignore Henry at your own risk. It is also important to note that it is not volume (although it helps) as Henry continues to make a real impact when he touches the ball.
- Average Yards After Contact – 3.4
- Rushing Touchdown Rate – 5.2%
Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles
Wait, Barkley did not run for 2,000 yards again last season? Automatic disappointment. Let’s be real, we know that 2024 was a career year, but it was also a steep drop to 1,140 yards and seven touchdowns last season. This season is Barkley’s age 29 season, which in reality should not be considered old, but running backs exist on a different aging curve.
It is only natural then to wonder what we should expect from Barkley this season. If you combine Barkley’s rushing production with his 37 catches for 273 yards and two more touchdowns, we have a borderline RB1/RB2. At the least, I am expecting a repeat of 2025, but there is also enough here to look for some level of resurgence. All of the below metrics are in the upper percentile at running back.
- Broken Tackle – 19.3%
- Positive Run – 75.7%
- Team Targets – 10.8%
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