ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz's BackCAST system projects Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame) as the top 2026 NFL draft running back with an 89.0% score, far ahead of the rest of a relatively weak class. Love's dominance is clear, though Schatz notes he's not a generational talent despite his size/speed combination and 4.36-second 40-yard dash. However, Schatz cautions against using a high first-round pick on Love, citing concerns about his supporting offensive line. Love's teammate, Jadarian Price, has a significantly negative BackCAST score of -46.4%, reflecting doubts about his NFL viability despite sharing the backfield with Love.

While Love leads, other prospects like Jonah Coleman (Washington) and Adam Randall (Clemson) show middling BackCAST scores around 33-36%, suggesting limited impact. Randall's size (232 pounds) and receiving upside are noted, but his slower 4.5-second combine time is a concern. Mike Washington Jr. (Arkansas) and Nicholas Singleton (Penn State) offer slightly better projections, with Washington's speed (223 pounds, 4.33-second 40) highlighted. Penn State's Kaytron Allen and Seth McGowan (Kentucky) have the lowest scores, with McGowan's impressive combine verticals (42½-inch vertical, 10-foot-11 broad jump) standing out despite BackCAST doubts.

The draft class lacks a clear elite running back, with Love being the best but flawed prospect. Teams seeking a starter should look beyond the first round, focusing on value later where backs like Randall or Washington might offer more consistent production. The lack of a generational talent underscores the depth issues in this draft's backfield pool.