July 13, 2026, 5:02 p.m. MT
The Arizona Cardinals have an improved running back room in 2026, as James Conner returns, Tyler Allgeier signed in free agency and Jeremiyah Love was drafted third overall. None of them are among the league’s top running backs, according to a poll by ESPN of coaches, executives and scouts.
The Cardinals will, though, face several of the league’s top backs in 2026.
Of the top 10 backs ranked and three honorable mentions, the Cardinals will face six in eight games.
The top backs the Cardinals will face
These are the backs the Cardinals will face who are in teh top 10 or receive honorable mention.
Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!No. 2: Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit LionsNo. 3: Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia EaglesNo. 4: Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ersNo. 9: Ken Walker, Kansas City ChiefsNo. 10: Breece Hall, New York JetsHonorable mention: Kyren Williams, LA Rams
McCaffrey and Williams are in the NFC West, so the the Cardinals will face them twice each. The Cardinals and 49er play in Week 3 and Week 18. The Cardinals and Rams face off in Weeks 6 and 10. They face Gibbs at home in Week 5, Barkley at home in Week 13, Walker in Week 11 on the road and Hall at home in Week 15.
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