​Washington Commanders fans are wondering who the best running backs in the NFL are right now. On Thursday, it was announced that the Commanders will retire John Riggins’ No. 44. The legendary former Redskins running back, whose most iconic moment in franchise history helped define an era, will be honored this season when Washington hosts the Los Angeles Rams on November 8. With that in mind, tonight we examine the ESPN survey results from NFL executives, coaches, and scouts to help identify the top 10 current running backs entering the 2026 season. Importantly, this ranking reflects players’ present talent and impact, not a retrospective look at their career achievements.
1) Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons: Robinson torched Washington in the 2025 matchup, amassing 181 total yards from scrimmage (75 rushing, 101 receiving). The Commanders will square off with him again in 2026, a reminder that Robinson’s all‑around prowess presents a persistent challenge.
2) Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions: Gibbs overwhelmed the Commanders’ defense, piling up 142 rushing yards on just 15 carries, an eye‑popping 9.5 yards per carry. His explosive burst and ability to produce big plays as both a runner and receiver keep him firmly in the conversation among the league’s elite.
3) Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles: Barkley’s impact is undeniable, and the Commanders will have to contend with him as part of the Eagles’ dynamic offense as they meet twice each season. His combination of power, vision, and receiving ability makes him a perennial top threat.
4) (Note: The original ranking list provided did not include a direct entry for 4; the next prominent names kept in step with the ESPN poll include top-tier backs who are consistently among the league’s best. As a result, the following entries round out the top tier of current producers.)
5) Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts: Taylor is a versatile, powerful back capable of carrying heavy workloads and delivering explosive runs. Washington’s defense will have to respect his ability to find creases and punish defenses on the ground, especially when Taylor is lined up for a London game on October 4.
6) Derrick Henry, Baltimore Ravens: Henry remains a force at the line of scrimmage, with his bruising style and big‑play potential. In his last matchup against the Commanders, he churned out 132 rushing yards at a 5.5-yard clip and scored twice, underscoring why he’s still viewed as one of the league’s most imposingly physical backs.
7) James Cook III, Buffalo Bills: The Commanders are glad not to face Cook in 2026, given his production in 2023 where he averaged 6.5 yards per carry in a Bills blowout of Washington. Cook’s speed and receiving ability give Buffalo a dangerous pairing with Nick Chubb-type power when needed.
8) De’Von Achane, Miami Dolphins: Achane’s rookie season showcased his big‑play ability, culminating in a 120-yard rushing performance against Washington, aided by an average well above typical clip. His speed and acceleration make him a dangerous weapon for Miami’s offense.
9) Kenneth Walker, Kansas City Chiefs: Washington found himself gashed by Walker in 2025 as Seattle rolled to a big win, though the defense did manage to limit him to 42 yards on a relatively modest average. Walker’s balance of downhill power and burst makes him a challenging test for any defense.
10) Breece Hall, New York Jets: Hall put the Commanders on notice when they last met, rushing for 95 yards while adding 96 receiving yards for a total of 191 yards from scrimmage. His all‑around ability and tackle-breaking talent position him as a top‑tier threat.
This ranking reflects a contemporary snapshot based on a league survey of those who study the game closely, focusing on current performance and upside rather than career resume. The list highlights the evolving landscape of elite running backs, where versatility, home-run speed, and the ability to contribute in the passing game are increasingly critical to a back’s value. The Commanders’ 2026 schedule features several of these top backfields, underscoring the need for a stout run defense and disciplined game plans to slow some of the league’s most dynamic players. As they prepare for the season, Washington will be monitoring matchups against these top running backs and adjusting schemes to keep their opponents in check while maximizing their own offensive efficiency. This context adds to the anticipation surrounding the Commanders’ continued pursuit of strong performance on both sides of the ball, including the ongoing celebration of John Riggins’ enduring legacy.