There is no position more important to nail in fantasy football than the running backs. If you can hit on a sleeper running back who exceeds his value, it is fantasy gold and can go a long way in helping you lock up a fantasy championship. These are some of the most valuable sleeper running backs in fantasy football this season.
2026 Running Back SleepersKenneth Gainwell, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Gainwell went to Pittsburgh last season and turned that backfield on its head. Jaylen Warren was looking like he was close to a locked-in bell-cow back until Gainwell showed up, showed out, and outperformed him just about every time he saw an opportunity until he became undeniable and created a full split backfield.
He will look to do the same thing in Tampa Bay this season with Bucky Irving. We have already seen that the Bucs like to utilize multiple backs, and Gainwell is an outstanding pass-catching option. He can carve out an extremely valuable role with the Buccaneers this season.
Rachaad White, Washington Commanders
