# NFL Running Backs Make Comeback

> NFL running backs surge as league shifts to feature back strategy.
- Title: NFL Running Backs Make Comeback · CBS Sports | Shortify
- Summary: NFL running backs surge as league shifts to feature back strategy. The NFL's running back position is rebounding with more players exceeding 1,000 rushing…
- Keywords: nfl, running back, feature back, passing game, rushing yards, defensive strategy, offensive line, field position, kicker, sports, Running, Backs
- Source: CBS Sports — https://cbssports.com/nfl/news/return-of-the-nfls-feature-back-run-game-resurgence
- Published: 2026-09-29T14:10:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nfl, running back, feature back, passing game, rushing yards, defensive strategy, offensive line, field position, kicker, sports
## Running Backs Resurgence
The NFL has seen a return to prominence for running backs after a period of decline, with 15 players exceeding 1,000 rushing yards over the last four years.
## Historical Context
From Walter Payton to Derrick Henry, the position has always had stars, but the depth of the role has fluctuated with league trends.
## Recent Data Shift
Teams now average 61.5 offensive plays per game, down from 63.1 over the past decade, with a rise in running plays since 2019.
## Defensive Changes
Defensive coordinators like Vic Fangio have reduced explosive passing plays, shifting focus to running backs for stability.
## Offensive Line Impact
The transfer portal and NIL have affected offensive line development, with teams adapting to creative defensive formations.
## Field Position Shift
New kickoff rules improved starting field position, with kickers making more long field goals, reducing need for big plays.
## Lighter Defenses
Defenses now use lighter personnel, allowing running backs to gain more yards in the run game.
## Fourth Down Trends
Teams are more aggressive on fourth down, creating more opportunities for running backs to gain yards.
## Position Value Shift
Running backs have seen increased value as teams prioritize the role, with salaries rising but still lagging behind other positions.
## Recent Draft Moves
Arizona selected Jeremiyah Love as the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, signaling renewed interest in the position.
## Future Outlook
The running back position is rebounding, with more players reaching 1,000 rushing yards and teams increasingly valuing the role.
## Key takeaway

The NFL's running back position is rebounding with more players exceeding 1,000 rushing yards annually, driven by defensive changes and offensive adjustments.