Since the departure of Ezekiel Elliott, the Dallas Cowboys have searched for a true bell cow back -- a three-down presence capable of shouldering a heavy workload and dictating the tempo of the offense.
While they've relied on committees, the 2026 NFL Draft offers a class with several prospects who could finally fill that void, especially given the Cowboys' burgeoning young offensive line with youth-infused ballplayers in abundance.
Here is a look at five running backs, from a potential top-15 pick to late-round sleepers, who could be available when April arrives.
Day One
If the Dallas front office is determined to finally invest premium draft capital in the position, and he's on the board when they're on the clock, the answer could be as simple as Jeremiyah Love. The clear-cut RB1 in the class and one of the most explosive playmakers in all of college football, he possesses a rare blend of track speed, agility, and power that translates into big-play capability on any snap.
Love is projected to be a first-round selection regardless of positional value, and his ability to thrive in outside-zone schemes would make him a terrifying addition behind Dallas's young, athletic front five.
Drafting Love would instantly give the Cowboys the explosive, three-down threat they've lacked, allowing the offense to control games and take significant pressure off the passing attack. He is an immediate-impact talent built to succeed at the NFL level.
Day Two
As the draft transitions into Day Two, the value for a foundational back often peaks.
Kaytron Allen, Penn State
Projected to be taken in the back half of Day two, Allen (220 lbs) is a physical, experienced runner who has taken over the workload at Penn State as 2025 has progressed.
He's a fundamentally sound back who excels in between the tackles, but also has the ability to win outside. His frame, coupled with impressive contact balance and vision, makes him a threat in short-yardage and red-zone situations, as well.
Additionally, Allen has shown a willingness to stick his face in the mud in pass protection, a trait necessary for any rookie hoping to see the field early in the NFL.
Jadarian Price, Notre Dame
Love’s teammate, Price presents an enticing combination of productivity and low mileage, as living slightly in the shadow of Love has meant less tread on his tires.
An explosive runner in his own right, Price touts excellent lateral quickness and cutting flexibility, and has shown the ability to handle an RB1 type of workload in spurts where Love remains on the sideline.
While Love has the flash, Price’s efficiency and less-worn body could appeal to a team like the Cowboys looking for an impactful back who can still contribute in a rotation early on, with the upside to become a starter.
Day Three
Justice Haynes, Michigan
Haynes has been the heartbeat of the Michigan offense, demonstrating a physical, decisive running style similar to former Wolverine, and current Los Angeles Ram, Blake Corum. Haynes runs with easy footwork and vision, prioritizing ball security and the ability to plow through first contact.
He excels at breaking arm tackles and maximizing every carry, and for a team prioritizing a physical RB1 body type in the later rounds, Haynes offers the power and toughness to become a high-value rotational back who can handle a significant snap count.
J'Mari Taylor, Virginia
The smaller but equally physical Taylor (210 lbs) out of Virginia has been a revelation for the No. 19 ranked Cavaliers.
Despite his lack of verticality, Taylor runs with a tenacious mentality, willing to compete for every yard. Highly productive in the ACC, Taylor projects as a strong competitor for RB2/RB3 carries in the NFL, offering a late-round option with the power and low center of gravity to excel in short-yardage or specific package work early in his career.