Is 2026 the comeback year for running backs? If the latest ESPN fantasy mock draft is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes. Ten ESPN fantasy analysts kicked off the season by making their first picks of the year, and the trend was clear: running backs were flying off the board early and often. After a few seasons where wide receivers dominated early rounds, the pendulum appears to be swinging back. In this mock draft, the top five selections were all running backs, signaling a renewed faith in workhorse backs who can anchor a fantasy roster. This shift reflects a broader NFL trend, where teams are leaning more on ground games to control the clock and protect young quarterbacks. For fantasy managers, this means stocking up on elite running backs early could be the key to a championship run in 2026. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, this mock draft serves as a valuable preview of what to expect on draft day.