The 2026 NFL Draft is upon us, and with it, the anticipation of building a championship-winning roster. As an expert analyst, I'm here to dissect the running back class and provide an in-depth look at the players who could be on the Eagles' radar. While the Eagles' backfield is currently stacked with Saquon Barkley and Tank Bigsby, the question remains: who could be the next piece to fill the RB3 role?
The Top Contenders
Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
Jeremiyah Love is a force to be reckoned with. His speed, size, and big-play ability make him a legitimate first-round talent. However, I believe he's more suited for a role as a feature back in a different team's offense. The Eagles' scheme might not be the perfect fit for Love's skill set, and I doubt he'll last until pick 23. Nevertheless, he's a name to keep an eye on.
Jadarian Price, Notre Dame
Jadarian Price is a well-rounded committee back, and his efficient running style and versatility make him an attractive prospect. However, I believe he's being overvalued by the consensus. The Eagles should be patient and wait until Day 3 to make their move. Price's fit in the Eagles' offense is questionable, and I don't see him being a game-changer.
Mike Washington Jr, Arkansas
Mike Washington Jr. is a rare size/speed athlete with a high physical ceiling. His testing profile and vertical burst are impressive, but his limited receiving ability is a concern. The Eagles might consider him for special teams and depth, but his draft stock is likely too high for the Eagles' comfort.
Day 3 and Beyond
Emmett Johnson, Nebraska
Emmett Johnson is a fluid athlete with passing-down value. His movement skills and receiving ability are intriguing, but his pass protection needs work. The Eagles might take a chance on him as a Day 3 pick, but it's a risk-reward situation. If he can improve as a pass protector, Johnson could be a steal.
Nicholas Singleton, Penn State
Nicholas Singleton is a high-upside power-speed runner with prototype traits. However, he needs to do more with his athleticism and improve his ability to make defenders miss in space. The Eagles might consider him as a potential RB3, but his draft stock is likely too high for the Eagles' comfort.
Jonah Coleman, Washington
Jonah Coleman is a compact, physical runner with consistent inside production. However, his profile doesn't match the Eagles' needs, and his draft range suggests he'll be gone before the Eagles have an interest.
Late-Round Gems
Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest
Demond Claiborne is a speedy rotational back with explosive play potential. He's the kind of third-down back the Eagles should target, but concerns around size and pass protection could limit his role. Claiborne is a gamble worth taking if he can hold up in protection.
J'Mari Taylor, Virginia
J'Mari Taylor is a short, stout back with excellent contact balance and reliable pass protection. His receiving ability is limited, but his protection skills make him a valuable asset. The Eagles might consider him as a late-round pick to add depth and receiving value.
Kaytron Allen, Penn State
Kaytron Allen is a sturdy north-south back with excellent production. However, his physical style doesn't match the Eagles' needs, and he's a tough sell unless the Eagles pivot away from targeting a pass-catching back.
Kaelon Black, Indiana
Kaelon Black is a talented early-down runner with good contact balance and a physical approach to pass protection. However, his receiving role isn't there, and the Eagles likely pass on him. If they do want a steady, willing pass protector, Black makes some sense as a late flier.
Le'Veon Moss, Texas A&M
Le'Veon Moss is a physical downhill runner with short-area quickness. However, his production doesn't quite back up the pre-draft buzz, and his draft stock is likely too high for the Eagles' comfort.
Seth McGowan, Kentucky
Seth McGowan is an explosive developmental back with an impressive athletic profile. However, his receiving ability is lacking, and it's hard to justify the pick without it. The Eagles might consider him as a special teams role player.
Adam Randall, Clemson
Adam Randall is a big, physical downhill runner with pass-catching versatility. However, his raw skills and pass protection needs work. The Eagles might consider him as a late-round gamble, but it's a risky move.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 NFL Draft is an exciting prospect for the Eagles, and the running back class offers a mix of talent and potential. While the Eagles' backfield is currently stacked, the RB3 role is still up for grabs. The Eagles should be patient and wait until Day 3 to make their move, targeting a pass-catching, third-down specialist who can contribute in the passing game and provide value on special teams. The draft is all about finding the right fit, and the Eagles have the patience and strategy to make it happen.
