As great as it would be to see the Washington Commanders pick up Breece Hall heading into the 2026 season, given his explosive running style, it may not be the most realistic of options. The Commanders have a lot of positions to fill, and while adding another offensive weapon for Jayden Daniels is imperative, it is not the number one need at this point in time. Some argue that they need an edge rusher first, and others will say an offensive lineman to protect Daniels further, but at some point, an impact runner will need to be added to the roster.
The question is, who are the most realistic running back options for the Commanders in 2026? Below are the top three options that Washington can pick up in free agency.
Commanders’ Realistic Running Back Options for 2026
Rico Dowdle as the “Most Well-Rounded” Realistic Running Back Option
Rico Dowdle most recently played for the Carolina Panthers, where he has not been the featured back but more of a rotational piece. Carolina has historically used its backfield as a committee, sharing snaps between Chuba Hubbard and Trevor Etienne. Dowdle had a solid 2025 season with nearly 1,100 yards and six rushing touchdowns.
For the Commanders, Dowdle can certainly operate as the lead running back. While he may not be as explosive as a runner as Breece Hall, he is the kind of back that will finish forward and fight for that extra yard or two when needed. From a financial standpoint, he is not overly pricing and will likely be in the $5-7 million range annually. Pair Dowdle with Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt, and you have a solid backfield for 2026.
Rachaad White as the “Versatile” Realistic Running Back Option
Rachaad White is entering year five in the NFL, but the question is whether his fifth year is with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He has spent his entire career in Tampa Bay, but now that he is a free agent, he may be signing elsewhere for a larger contract.
White is an early down back and has proven that he can be dangerous as a receiver when needed. However, throughout his career, White has averaged 3.9 yards per carry. While those are solid numbers, it is not exactly difference-making. Over the past two seasons, there has been an uptick to 4.3 yards, which is encouraging; he also has only 14 touchdowns across four seasons.
While he certainly has potential, is he a traditional “bell cow” candidate? That remains safe. Financially, he is in a similar sweet spot to Dowdle but will likely command $6-8 million annually. While White is certainly an option for the Commanders, he may not be the best overall fit for what they need.
Kenneth Gainwell as the “Cost-Effective” Realistic Running Back Option
Kenneth Gainwell was primarily used as a rotational back with the Philadelphia Eagles throughout his career. After this past year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, we may see him move on as well. Since 2021, Gainwell has averaged 4.4 yards per carry, which is excellent. But that is also being used on a rotational basis. The problem therein lies that he is more efficient with fewer touches he sees. Could Gainwell be lead back material?
But after five years in the league, his numbers do not necessarily support that he is going to be that guy. He would certainly be the most cost-effective option at a cost-asking price of somewhere between $3-5 million. However, he is likely not the back that takes Washington’s run game to the next level.
Who is the Best Choice?
Compared to Rachaad White and Kenneth Gainwell, Rico Dowdle is the only one who has proven to have the numbers that a feature back requires. He has had two seasons in a row with over 235 carries and maintained a 4.6 yards per carry average. While White and Gainwell could certainly be helpful additions to the Commanders’ offense, Dowdle is the only one based on the numbers with true breakout potential.