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There are multiple running backs about to hit free agency who can be high-end starters in 2026.
Running backs might not get the type of contracts that will go to some of the cornerbacks and left tackles on the ranking of available free agents, but some of the RBs available should make a big impact wherever they sign. There are plenty of talented options.
Here are the top five running backs available in free agency:
1. Breece Hall
The Jets have said they don’t plan to lose Hall, whether that means an extension, a franchise or transition tag. That might seem questionable for a Jets team that is unlikely to compete for a playoff spot next season, though Hall is a good, young talent. He has more than 5,000 yards from scrimmage in his four seasons. He had a torn ACL in the middle of a tremendous rookie season, but has missed only two games over the past three seasons. It would be nice to see a back this talented in a better offensive environment than the Jets will provide. We’ll see what the team does.
2. Kenneth Walker III
Walker came up big when the Seahawks needed it most. With Zach Charbonnet out with a torn ACL, Walker had 27 carries for 135 yards in Super Bowl LX. Those were the second-best marks of his career, counting the regular season and postseason. He was Super Bowl MVP right before he hit free agency. He is a boom-or-bust runner, but has shown enough big-play ability to be a starter somewhere if Seattle doesn’t re-sign him.
3. Travis Etienne Jr.
In three of Etienne’s four seasons, he has gained at least 1,399 yards from scrimmage. He also has 32 career touchdowns. Etienne has big-play ability in the running game and is a good receiver out of the backfield. His versatility will be a plus for any team looking to add a productive starter in free agency.
4. Rico Dowdle
Dowdle has back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons with the Cowboys and then the Panthers. His one season with the Panthers included a phenomenal two-game stretch in which he had 389 yards rushing and 84 yards receiving. Dowdle isn’t a physical marvel, which is a reason he got just a one-year, $2.75 million deal as a backup for Carolina. Having another productive season for the Panthers should make for a healthier market this time around.
5. Tyler Allgeier
Allgeier rushed for 1,035 yards as a rookie with the Falcons, then had the misfortune of the team drafting Bijan Robinson in the first round. Allgeier took a backseat to Robinson, but he played well in a complementary role. He has averaged 4.3 yards per carry, is a capable receiver and has 20 career touchdowns. He also doesn’t have a lot of wear and tear on his body because Robinson handled so much of the work ahead of him. Allgeier is a starter, just one who was stuck in Atlanta behind one of the best backs in the NFL.