Top 5 Running Backs for the 49ers in the 2026 NFL Draft

With the departure of Brian Robinson, the San Francisco 49ers may be looking to bolster their running back depth in the 2026 NFL Draft. While the team has two early draft picks that are unlikely to be used on running backs, the situation changes significantly later in the draft. With four fourth-round selections, the 49ers have a strong opportunity to target a running back during this phase of the draft.

If the 49ers decide to add another player to their backfield, there are several prospects who could align with what the team is seeking. Here are some of the top running back options for San Francisco in the middle rounds of the 2026 draft.

Kaytron Allen, Penn State

Allen is a player who shares similarities with Brian Robinson in terms of his approach to the running game. He is a no-nonsense, downhill runner who attacks defenses with a physical style. This type of play could serve as a strong contrast to Christian McCaffrey, who relies more on agility and movement in space.

While Allen may not have the highest ceiling among running back prospects, his overall reliability gives him a higher floor than many players in this draft range. For a team looking for a dependable rotational back who can handle physical carries, Allen would provide a straightforward fit.

Seth McGowan, Kentucky

McGowan enters the draft process as an older prospect and will need to address some off-the-field questions during the pre-draft cycle. From a talent standpoint, however, he brings an intriguing combination of size and explosiveness.

Compared to Allen, McGowan offers more burst while still maintaining a downhill running style. He will need to improve his pass protection to become a complete option at the next level, but his physical running style and explosiveness could translate well within the 49ers’ offensive scheme.

Adam Randall, Clemson

Randall is one of the more intriguing upside bets among the running backs who could be available on Day 3 of the draft. A former wide receiver, he brings a rare blend of size, speed, and big-play ability that could make him an interesting developmental option.

Because he is still relatively new to the position, Randall may be considered a raw prospect. However, his ability to create explosive plays makes him worth targeting in the later rounds. He could compete with Jordan James while offering a more explosive element in the backfield. In addition, his receiving background could make him a natural option to catch passes out of the backfield.

Eli Heidenreich, Navy

Heidenreich is another prospect who represents more of an upside projection. During his time at Navy, he often played a “joker” role that saw him line up in multiple spots, including wide receiver. His versatility was a major part of how he was used within the offense.

During the pre-draft process, Heidenreich worked out as a running back and performed well during combine testing and position drills. His speed, willingness to block, and positional flexibility make him an intriguing option. Because he is still relatively new to the position, he could remain available in the later rounds. That versatility could make him a natural fit in the 49ers’ offense.

Le’Veon Moss, Texas A&M

Moss brings value in areas that could help take some pressure off McCaffrey. One of his strengths is pass protection, which could allow him to see the field in situations where protecting the quarterback is a priority.

As a runner, Moss does most of his work between the tackles and provides a physical presence in the running game. That power element could complement McCaffrey’s style and give the 49ers another option in short-yardage or interior rushing situations. However, Moss does not offer much elusiveness or burst, which raises the question of whether he would be the best value if selected this early in the draft.