2026 NFL Results: Three Running Backs To Watch

The running back group at the 2026 NFL Combine may not have produced record-breaking headlines, but it delivered clarity. In today’s NFL, backs must do more than carry the football. They must diagnose fronts, create off-tackle lanes, contribute in the passing game, and protect the quarterback. Indianapolis showcased which prospects possess those translatable traits.

Three backs stood out during workouts and positional drills: Demond Claiborne (Wake Forest), Jadarian Price (Notre Dame), and Roman Hemby (Indiana).

Demond Claiborne, RB — Wake Forest

• Combine Highlight: 4.37 40-yard dash
• Scouting Grade: 6.8 (Explosive Committee Back with Big-Play Ability)
• Updated Round Projection: Round 3

Claiborne delivered one of the fastest times among running backs with a blazing 4.37 forty-yard dash, instantly validating his home-run speed. But what truly elevated his stock was how that speed translated in the positional work.

He looked especially sharp in the off-tackle recognition drill, showing patience to press the line before exploding into space once the lane was declared. His acceleration through the second level was immediate, and he stayed compact through cuts rather than overstriding.

Claiborne’s ability to process and react in space suggests more than just straight-line burst. It points to vision and controlled explosiveness. His footwork was efficient, and he didn’t waste motion when redirecting.

Evaluation: Claiborne profiles as a dynamic rotational back who can stretch defenses horizontally and vertically. His testing confirmed big-play potential, and his drill work showed he can execute within structure. After Indianapolis, he likely solidified himself as a strong Day 2 option.

Jadarian Price, RB — Notre Dame

• Combine Highlight: 4.50 40-yard dash | Elite off-tackle recognition performance
• Scouting Grade: 6.9 (Three-Down Back Traits)
• Updated Round Projection: Round 2

Price may not have posted the fastest forty with a 4.50, but his overall workout may have been the most complete of the group. In the off-tackle recognition drill, he was arguably the best back on the field, pressing gaps decisively, reading holes cleanly, and exploding through daylight with balance.

His tempo stood out. He didn’t rush reads, nor did he hesitate. Once the crease appeared, he planted and accelerated with authority. That kind of controlled vision is exactly what NFL evaluators look for when projecting scheme versatility.

Beyond that drill, Price looked fluid in space and comfortable catching the football. His footwork was compact and decisive. He may have had the best day in the non-speed, field drills of all the backs. 

Evaluation: Price profiles as a dependable three-down option who can function in zone or gap schemes. While he may not have elite track speed, his vision, processing, and all-around polish likely pushed him firmly into the early Day 2 conversation.

Roman Hemby, RB — Indiana

• Combine Highlight: Strong positional drills (did not run 40; will test at Pro Day)
• Scouting Grade: 6.7 (Versatile Back with Receiving Upside)
• Updated Round Projection: Round 3–4

Hemby chose not to run the forty-yard dash in Indianapolis and will post his official time at his Pro Day. However, he made sure scouts left with a strong impression.

Throughout the battery of drills, Hemby showcased excellent jump cuts, displaying lateral explosiveness and body control. His ability to redirect without losing speed stood out in change-of-direction work. He looked natural pressing and bouncing outside while staying balanced through contact simulations.

Perhaps most encouraging was his performance in the passing drills. Hemby displayed better hands than expected, catching the ball cleanly away from his frame and transitioning smoothly up field.

Evaluation: Hemby projects as a versatile back capable of contributing in space and in the passing game. His drill performance likely raised his floor, and if his Pro Day forty confirms adequate speed, he could push higher into the Day 2 range.