The NFL MVP race has long been dominated by quarterbacks, but could a running back finally challenge that trend in 2026? With the season approaching its midpoint, the conversation surrounding the league’s most prestigious individual award raises an important question: Is a quarterback’s value still enough to outweigh a running back putting together a historic season?
Quarterbacks typically have the advantage because of their impact on the passing game, overall offensive production and ability to carry
their teams to victories. However, an elite running back can change the complexion of an offense, control the tempo of a game and provide consistent production that opposing defenses struggle to contain. If that production translates into team success, the MVP conversation could become more interesting than usual.
The challenge is that running backs face a difficult historical precedent. Quarterbacks have become the standard for MVP voters, making it increasingly difficult for players at other positions to break through. Still, a dominant individual campaign combined with a compelling team narrative could force voters to reconsider their usual approach.
Could a running back do enough to steal the award from the quarterbacks this season? Let’s examine what it would take to make that possibility a reality.
MY MVP TOP-5
1. Kenneth Walker, RB (KC)
Walker is the second leading rusher in the NFL with 701 rushing yards to go along with 6 rushing touchdowns. In addition, he 116 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns. Walker has revitalized the Chiefs offense. His game-changing ability in the backfield is why the Chiefs are 5-1. The difference is that he has played 1 less game than Atlanta’s Bijan Robinson.
2. Jaxson Smith-Njigba, WR (SEA)
Fresh off of winning Offensive Player of the Year in the 2025 season, JSN is on pace to compete for the award again. He leads the league receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. He could be the next Triple Crown winner, becoming the league’s 6th player ever to do so from the receiver position.
3. Brock Purdy, QB (SF)
The 49ers are first in the NFC West and a lot of that has to do with Shanahan’s ability to playcall. But Brocky Purdy is playing near flawless football for the 49ers. He has 15 touchdowns to 4 interceptions while pacing the 49ers top 5 offense.
4. Bijan Robinson, RB (ATL)
Bijan Robinson is probably the best NFL player on the planet. Bijan is first in the league in rushing with 704 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns.
5. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB (DET)
If Kenneth Walker are 1A and 1B in the league, Gibbs is the clear #2. Gibbs is fourth in the league in rushing yards with 620 yards but has a league best 7 rushing touchdowns. Since the Lions let David Montgomery walk in free agency, Gibbs is now taking bell-cow duties seriously… For those that think Jared Goff is MVP-worthy. Please do not kid yourself. Goff is not the engine of that offense.
