Fantasy football experts identify 2026 running back breakouts

Fantasy football experts are identifying potential breakout running backs for the 2026 season. Analysts highlight D’Andre Swift of the Chicago Bears as a high-value option due to his role in a high-scoring offense and his previous performance of 1,087 rushing yards.

Other notable players include Kenneth Walker, who has moved to the Kansas City Chiefs following a Super Bowl MVP performance. In comparisons of players with similar average draft positions, Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles and Omarion Hampton of the Los Angeles Chargers are being evaluated. While Barkley saw a dip in production in 2025, Hampton faces competition in the Chargers' backfield from players like Kimani Vidal.