Major Shakeups in NFL Running Back Landscape as Free Agency Begins

Major Shakeups in NFL Running Back Landscape as Free Agency Begins

The NFL free agency period kicked off with significant movement among running backs, highlighted by Kenneth Walker III agreeing to terms with the Kansas City Chiefs and Travis Etienne Jr. joining the New Orleans Saints. Other notable signings include: Rico Dowdle to Pittsburgh on a two-year, $12.25 million deal. J.K. Dobbins re-signing with Denver for two years and $20 million. Tyler Allgeier moving to Arizona with a similar contract to Dowdle's. Kenneth Gainwell heading to Tampa Bay on a two-year, $14 million deal. Isiah Pacheco taking over as the No. 2 running back in Detroit. Dowdle to Pittsburgh Dowdle reunites with coach Mike McCarthy after a strong season in Carolina, where he averaged 12.9 PPR points per game. He will share touches with Jaylen Warren, who had a career year in 2025. Dobbins Stays in Denver Dobbins aims to continue his momentum from 2025, where he averaged 11.6 PPR points per game before his injury. He will likely split carries with RJ Harvey, who emerged as a strong option post-injury. Allgeier to Arizona Allgeier joins a crowded backfield with James Conner and Trey Benson. His role will depend on Conner's health, but he could emerge as a goal-line back. Gainwell to Tampa Bay Gainwell is set to complement Bucky Irving as a versatile option for Baker Mayfield. His previous performance with the Steelers makes him a potential late-round steal in PPR formats. Pacheco to Detroit Pacheco steps in as the physical backup to Jahmyr Gibbs, who remains a top fantasy pick. Pacheco’s signing limits Gibbs' ceiling but positions him as a valuable asset in fantasy leagues. The landscape for running backs in the NFL is shifting dramatically, promising exciting changes for the upcoming season.

Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-10