The 2026 college football season promises an exciting battle for the top spot among running backs in the Big 12, with a mix of returning stars, intriguing transfers, and potential breakout candidates. Here's a deep dive into the rankings and the factors that could shape the league's running back landscape.
The Top Contenders
LJ Martin, BYU: The reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, Martin is a force to be reckoned with. His 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 2025 were career highs, and he's led BYU in rushing yards for three straight seasons. With the opportunity to become the Cougars' all-time leading rusher, Martin's return was a pivotal moment for the program. However, his health remains a concern, as he's been banged up in the past.
Cameron Dickey, Texas Tech: Dickey proved his worth in 2025, earning All-Big 12 second-team honors. His 1,124 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns led the league, and he averaged 7 points per game. Texas Tech's uncertain quarterback situation might lean on Dickey to carry the load, especially early in the year.
Caleb Hawkins, Oklahoma State: Hawkins' scoring prowess is evident in his 1,434 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns at North Texas in 2025. He averaged a nation's best 13.4 points per game and was a unanimous first-team all-conference selection. His move to Oklahoma State presents an opportunity to showcase his skills at a higher level.
The Rising Stars
Cam Cook, West Virginia: Cook's change of scenery from TCU to Jacksonville State paid off, as he led the nation in rushing yards and all-purpose yards. His success earned him Conference USA Player and Newcomer of the Year honors. Reunited with his offensive line coach at Jacksonville State, Rick Trickett, Cook has the potential to bring that kind of production to West Virginia.
Wayshawn Parker, Utah: Parker's 2025 season was a standout performance, earning him third-team All-Big 12 honors. His average of 103.8 rushing yards over the final six games was impressive, and he ended the year with 6.58 yards per carry. With Utah replacing its entire starting offensive line, Parker's impact could be even more significant in 2026.
The Transfers to Watch
Makhi Hughes, Houston: Hughes' transfer to Oregon didn't pan out as expected, as he redshirted after playing just four games. However, his previous success at Tulane, where he ran for 2,779 yards and 22 touchdowns, makes him a valuable addition to the Cougars. If he can replicate that success, he'll be a key player for Houston.
Joe Jackson, Kansas State: Jackson's late-season surge in 2025 earned him third-team All-Big 12 honors. With the Wildcats adding intriguing transfer options like Rodney Fields Jr. and Jay Harris, Jackson has the opportunity to build on his late-season success and become the premier back at Kansas State.
The Breakout Candidates
Jeremy Payne, TCU: Payne's 2025 season was a strong performance, leading the Horned Frogs in rushing and having a standout bowl game. With a new offensive coordinator, Gordon Sammis, and a focus on the running game, Payne is poised for a breakout season.
Dawson Pendergrass, Baylor: Pendergrass' foot injury in the preseason cost him the entire 2025 season, but he has the opportunity to shine in 2026. With Baylor's top back, Bryson Washington, transferring to Auburn, Pendergrass has a chance to become the lead back and build on his 2024 season, where he ran for 671 yards and six touchdowns.
The Uncertain Situations
Dylan Edwards, Kansas: Edwards' 2025 season was marred by injuries, but his speed makes him valuable as both a runner and a returner. At Kansas, he could be the solution to the Jayhawks' search for a lead rusher.
Landen Chambers or Duke Watson, UCF: UCF is in the market for a starting running back, and Chambers and Watson bring different skill sets to the table. Both had successful seasons at their previous stops, and their potential impact at UCF is worth monitoring.
The Restocking Efforts
Zion Johnson, Cincinnati: With the Bearcats restocking at running back, Johnson could be the man to win the starting job. His spring camp showing and praise from media outlets make him a strong contender for the lead-back role.
Kedrick Reescano, Arizona: Reescano has been a reliable backup for the Wildcats, excelling in short-yardage situations. With the opportunity to take over as the primary back, Arizona's depth at the position is an intriguing factor.
The Question Marks
Cameron Pettaway, Iowa State: Pettaway's 2025 season was impacted by a massive roster overhaul, leaving the running back position as a question mark. His special teams skills and transfer additions like Arnold Barnes III could factor into Iowa State's run plans.
Kyson Brown, Arizona State: Brown's 2025 season was cut short by injury, but he has shown the potential to lead the Sun Devils backfield. The internal candidates like Jason Brown Jr. and Demarius Robinson will compete for the top spot.
The Resurgence Efforts
- Richard Young, Colorado: Colorado's running game has been stagnant under Deion Sanders, but Young brings SEC experience to the Big 12. With the right support, he could help revive the Buffaloes' running attack.
