Patriots Eye Six Running Back Prospects for 2026 NFL Draft

The New England Patriots are exploring several running back options in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft as they look to add depth and competition behind their current backfield leaders Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.

With less than three weeks until draft day, the Patriots find themselves in an unfamiliar position, selecting 31st overall after consecutive seasons picking in the top five. Last year s second-round selection of Henderson means the position likely won t be addressed early, but team scouts have identified multiple prospects who could contribute.

Stevenson rebounded from a slow start last season to become one of New England s most reliable offensive contributors down the stretch. Meanwhile, Henderson showed explosive potential in his rookie campaign but needs greater consistency in year two. Behind this duo, the Patriots roster features Terrell Jennings, undrafted free agent Lan Larison, and veteran Elijah Mitchell.

Penn State teammates Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen represent the highest-rated prospects on New England s board. Singleton brings legitimate top-end speed and pass-catching ability despite posting career-low rushing numbers last season due to team struggles. Allen complemented his backfield partner with over 1,300 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, showcasing the physical running style and vision that appeals to NFL evaluators.

Clemson s Adam Randall presents an intriguing developmental option after transitioning from wide receiver to running back late in his junior season. The 6-foot-3 prospect averaged nearly five yards per carry in his first full season as a back while demonstrating impressive vision and natural receiving skills from his previous position. The Patriots hosted Randall for an official visit, indicating serious interest.

Oklahoma s Jaydn Ott carries both promise and question marks after a productive start to his college career at California. An ankle injury derailed his momentum before transferring to Oklahoma, where limited opportunities resulted in just 21 carries last season. However, his early career production, including 1,315 total yards as a sophomore, and strong Senior Bowl showing suggest significant upside if teams believe in his talent.

Indiana s Roman Hemby offers a different profile as a steady, dependable runner who contributed to the Hoosiers National Championship squad. While lacking flashy statistics, Hemby s reliability shows in having just two fumbles across 710 career carries. His pass-catching ability at Maryland and pass protection skills at Indiana demonstrate versatility that appeals to NFL teams.

Navy s Eli Heidenrich brings unique dual-threat capabilities, recording over 900 receiving yards and nearly 500 rushing yards last season. His willingness to handle tough running situations and experience with schemed touches could translate well to creative offensive systems at the professional level.

The Patriots released Antonio Gibson this offseason, creating additional motivation to add competition and depth at the position. While day-two selections like Arkansas Mike Washington Jr. and Washington s Jonah Coleman would represent premium investments, later-round prospects offer value opportunities to strengthen the position group.

New England s approach reflects the modern NFL emphasis on running back depth and versatility rather than heavy early-round investment in the position.