Best NFL running back duos heading into the 2026-2027 season

The running back position has experienced a resurgence across the NFL, with more teams relying on two-back systems instead of asking one player to shoulder the entire workload. Having a dynamic one-two punch keeps players fresh, creates matchup problems, and gives offenses more flexibility throughout a game.

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DraftKings recently released its rankings of the top running back duos entering the 2026 season. Here’s a breakdown of each pairing and why they made the list.

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The top five

Nov 2, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) runs the ball against the New England Patriots during the third quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

1. Bijan Robinson & Brian Robinson Jr. (Falcons) – Atlanta boasts the NFL’s top-ranked duo thanks to Bijan Robinson’s explosiveness and Brian Robinson Jr.’s physical running style. Together, they give the Falcons a perfect blend of speed and power.

2. Jahmyr Gibbs & Isiah Pacheco (Lions) – Gibbs is one of the league’s most dangerous home-run threats, while Pacheco brings toughness between the tackles. Detroit has a backfield capable of wearing down any defense.

3. Rhamondre Stevenson & TreVeyon Henderson (Patriots) – Stevenson’s versatility paired with Henderson’s speed gives New England one of the league’s most intriguing young backfields.

4. Derrick Henry & Justice Hill (Ravens) – Henry continues to punish defenses, while Hill provides explosiveness as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield.

5. Kyren Williams & Blake Corum (Rams) – The Rams have two backs who fit Sean McVay’s offense perfectly, giving Los Angeles excellent depth at the position.

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Rounding out the top 10

Dec 14, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III (4) runs for a touchdown against the New England Patriots during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

6. James Cook & Ray Davis (Bills) – Cook has become one of the top backs in the league, while Davis brings consistency and reliability.

7. J.K. Dobbins & RJ Harvey (Broncos) – Dobbins was excellent before his injury, and Harvey is just beginning to come into his own.

8. David Montgomery & Woody Marks (Texans) – Montgomery brings power running, while Marks is coming off an excellent rookie season.

9. Saquon Barkley & Tank Bigsby (Eagles) – Barkley remains one of the league’s elite playmakers, while Bigsby adds valuable depth.

10. Christian McCaffrey & Khalil Herbert (49ers) – McCaffrey is still among the NFL’s most dangerous offensive weapons when healthy, and Herbert provides quality insurance behind him.

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