In the world of American football, the 2026 NFL Draft promises to be a pivotal moment for many emerging talents, particularly concerning the running back position. Draft expert Eric Froton has presented his rankings, and on this second day, he highlights the seven best eligible running backs. With Penn State and Notre Dame dominating the list, expectations are high to see how these players will perform in the upcoming seasons.
**Running Back No. 7 – Seth McGowan, Kentucky**
Seth McGowan (6’1″/215) is an agile runner capable of surprising with his NFL-caliber explosiveness. In his final season, he amassed an impressive 730 yards and 12 touchdowns on 166 attempts, standing out with a solid rushing grade of 77.2. While he has shown an ability to evade the first defender, his tendency to stray from the game plan could cost him valuable yards. With mediocre creation numbers and a reception efficiency that leaves much to be desired, McGowan is viewed as a developing project, with the potential to shine on highlight plays, but he could have benefited from an additional season in college.
**Running Back No. 6 – Nicholas Singleton, Penn State**
Nicholas Singleton (6’0″/220) is a robust running back, whose strength and straight-line speed are his main characteristics. With 546 yards on 124 carries, Singleton has a rushing grade of 77%. His approach is straightforward, with little variation in his plays, which is reflected in creation metrics that reveal a lack of creativity in one-on-one situations. With an average of 1.52 yards per route in his last three seasons, Singleton is projected as a back that fits well in running schemes that value aggression and decisiveness, but his ability to generate yards in difficult situations remains an unknown.
**Running Back No. 5 – Kaytron Allen, Penn State**
Kaytron Allen (5’11″/219) has emerged as the true centerpiece of Penn State’s offense, accumulating 1,303 yards on 210 carries and 15 touchdowns, with an impressive rushing grade of 91.3. Allen is a patient runner who knows how to find the gaps between blocks and finish plays with authority. His ability to break tackles and his average of 3.77 yards after contact are indicators of a running back who can take control in an NFL offense, ideal for a starting role in a committee.
**Running Back No. 4 – Emmett Johnson, Nebraska**
Emmett Johnson (5’11″/200) is a versatile running back who stood out with 1,450 yards and 12 touchdowns on 251 attempts, earning a score of 88.1. Although he is not the most explosive runner, his ability to maximize each opportunity and his skill in receiving passes make him a valuable asset. With an impressive receiving history, Johnson is projected to be an RB2 in the NFL, capable of handling a large workload and significantly contributing to the passing game.
**Running Back No. 3 – Jadarian Price, Notre Dame**
Jadarian Price (5’11″/210) is a force of nature, known for his ability to run decisively in zone schemes. With an average of 6.0 yards per carry and 11 touchdowns, Price stands out for his creation ability through speed, accumulating an impressive breakaway rate of 51.2%. Although his contribution in the passing game is limited, his efficiency on the field and his ability to run straight ahead make him an attractive candidate for running schemes that prioritize efficiency.
**Running Back No. 2 – Jonah Coleman, Washington**
Jonah Coleman (5’9″/228) is a power runner, establishing himself as one of the best in his position with consistent performance throughout his career. With 67 broken tackles on 192 carries, Coleman is a runner who can withstand contact and advance on the field. His impact in the passing game, with 80 receptions on 90 targets, solidifies his utility in any NFL offense. When healthy, Coleman is viewed as a potential starting running back, capable of being a cornerstone in a committee.
**Running Back No. 1 – Jeremiah Love, Notre Dame**
Undoubtedly, Jeremiah Love (6’0″/214) is the star of this draft, coming off a phenomenal season with 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns, accompanied by an impressive rushing grade of 94.1. With a breakaway rate of 52.9%, Love is not only an explosive runner but a true offensive asset, also contributing in the passing game with 27 receptions. His playing style combines vision, explosiveness, and a contact balance that makes him a constant threat. With awards such as the Doak Walker and a Heisman nomination, Love is projected as a true number one running back in the NFL, capable of transforming the defensive structure of any team from day one.
Anticipation is building as we approach the Draft, with promises of talent and excitement on the horizon. Tomorrow, Eric Froton will provide an analysis of the top quarterbacks available, continuing our comprehensive coverage of one of the most awaited events on the sports calendar.
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