With the 2026 NFL Draft wrapped up, the attention has shifted to the 2027 draft. The 2027 running back class could take a step back in depth, but with a few highly quality prospects at the top.
This group features multiple three-down running backs, situational depth pieces, and transfers who could break out this fall. However, rankings will change significantly leading up to next April.
Here are the current top 10 running backs.
1. Ahmad Hardy (Missouri) (5-foot-10, 206 pounds)
Hardy is a true three-down running back who will likely be at the top of his position. He led the FBS in rushing yards (1,649), showcasing elite contact balance, upfield burst, and post-snap vision against top competition. He’s a compact runner who breaks tackles, accelerates quickly, and is a future franchise running back.
2. Nate Frazier (Georgia) (5-10, 210)
Georgia has produced multiple NFL-caliber running backs, including Herschel Walker, Nick Chubb, Todd Gurley, and more. Frazier could be the next top running back to come out with a projected sub-4.40 that can outrun a defense.
3. LJ Martin (BYU) (6-2, 220)
Martin possesses elite size, a rare frame for an NFL running back. He brings very good production, pre- and post-snap vision, and elusiveness in space, which is eye-opening due to his size. He’s a patient, scheme-friendly runner who could rise quickly in a pro-style system.
4. Isaac Brown (Louisville) (5-9, 190)
The Louisville running back is a favorite among multiple scouts and draft analysts. Brown is an explosive runner and elusive in space. He offers very good foot speed and a big-play threat. He can also become a threat on third down in the receiving game with more development.
5. Mark Fletcher (Miami) (6-2, 225)
Fletcher is another running back who possesses an elite frame heading into his final season. He’s a true gap runner, strong and physical between-the-tackles grinder with solid speed. Fletcher offers starter potential as a power back who can handle a heavy workload.
6. Kewan Lacy (Ole Miss) (5-11, 200)
Lacy is higher on most boards, but other running backs are expected to have huge seasons. He combines speed, lateral agility, and home-run ability with surprising power between the tackles. He’s a threat in the passing game, becoming a reliable target for any quarterback.
7. Justice Haynes (Georgia Tech) (5-11, 210)
Haynes transferred from Michigan to Georgia Tech, making him a potential breakout candidate that could eclipse the 1,000-yard mark. He possesses solid contact balance, decisiveness and athletic ability. Some scouts love his versatility and ability as a north-south runner.
8. Jadan Baugh (Florida) (6-1, 231)
Baugh is a powerful, well-rounded back who can run inside or outside and contribute as a receiver. He’s consistently developed his receiving ability. Florida’s offense should give him plenty of opportunities to climb boards in the fall.
9. Darius Taylor (Minnesota) (6-0, 215)
Darius Taylor brings extensive experience and solid production for the Golden Gophers. He possesses good size for the position, very good contact balance, and three-down potential as a dual-threat back at the next level.
10. Jordan Marshall (Michigan) (5-11, 216)
With the transfer of Haynes, Marshall could see a drastic rise in his workload in 2026. He reads blocks well, can find creases, and runs with determination and physicality. Marshall could see his rankings rise as he continued to develop.
