ESPN's Ben Solak ranks the ten biggest position group improvements entering the 2026 NFL season, with Arizona's running backs leading the list. The Cardinals addressed a crowded backfield that produced five players with 40+ touches last season, including two of the six worst rushers by yards over expectation.

Arizona drafted Jeremiyah Love third overall and signed Tyler Allgeier from Atlanta for $6 million annually. Love's speed complements Allgeier's power-running style, though the rookie's presence makes Allgeier a potential trade candidate. Both Conner and Benson return from injuries, but neither inspired confidence in 2025.

Las Vegas ranks second after completely overhauling their linebackers, adding Georgia products Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean while moving on from all four regulars. Washington takes third by replacing aging Bobby Wagner, whose 18.2 mph max speed ranked fifth-slowest among starters. The Raiders and Commanders both transformed thin position groups into legitimate units.

These upgrades matter because positional depth often determines playoff races. Teams with glaring holes at linebacker and running back struggled in close games last season. Arizona's backfield now features a true bell cow in Love, while Las Vegas found the speed and instincts missing from their defense.