The 2026 Big 12 season promises to be a thrilling affair for running backs, with a strong group of returning stars and intriguing transfers. Among the top contenders, BYU's LJ Martin stands out as the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a driving force behind the Cougars' 12-win season. Martin's 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns were impressive, and he's led BYU in rushing yards for the past three seasons. With the opportunity to become the Cougars' all-time leading rusher, Martin's return was pivotal, despite the question of his health lingering from past injuries. Texas Tech's Cameron Dickey is another standout, with 1,124 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, earning him All-Big 12 second-team honors. The Red Raiders' explosive backfield, featuring Dickey and J'Koby Williams, could be a force to be reckoned with. Oklahoma State's Caleb Hawkins, a scoring sensation at North Texas, averaged 13.4 points per game and finished fifth in rushing yards. His move to Oklahoma State presents an intriguing development, as he seeks to translate his skills to the power conference level. West Virginia's Cam Cook, who led the nation in rushing yards at Jacksonville State, brings a similar dynamic to the Mountaineers. The return of offensive line coach Rick Trickett adds to the excitement surrounding Cook's transition to West Virginia. Utah's Wayshawn Parker, with 981 rushing yards and third-team All-Big 12 honors, showcases explosive playmaking abilities. Parker's average of 103.8 rushing yards over the final six games is particularly impressive, and he could be relied on even more in 2026. Houston's Makhi Hughes, despite a misstep at Oregon, has the potential to be a valuable piece for the Cougars, having run for 2,779 yards and 22 touchdowns at Tulane. Kansas State's Joe Jackson, with a late-season surge, broke the school's single-game rushing record and earned third-team All-Big 12 honors. The addition of transfers Rodney Fields Jr. and Jay Harris further strengthens the Wildcats' backfield. TCU's Jeremy Payne, a junior, is poised for a breakout season, having led the Horned Frogs in rushing and showcasing standout performances in bowl games. Baylor's Dawson Pendergrass, returning from a foot injury, has the opportunity to shine as the lead back, with Bryson Washington's departure to Auburn opening the door. Kansas' Dylan Edwards, who sought a fresh start after an injury-plagued season, brings speed and versatility to the Jayhawks' search for a lead rusher. UCF's Landen Chambers and Duke Watson, incoming transfers with different skill sets, offer potential solutions for the Knights' starting running back role. Cincinnati's Zion Johnson, praised for his spring camp showing, could be in line to take over the lead-back role, with transfers Zylan Perry and Gi'Bran Payne in contention. Arizona's Kedrick Reescano, a reliable backup, now has the opportunity to become the program's primary back, with fellow senior Quincy Craig and Marshall transfer Antwan Roberts providing depth. Iowa State's Cameron Pettaway, a redshirt freshman, showed flashes and brings special teams skills, while Tulane transfer Arnold Barnes III could factor into the Cyclones' run plans. Arizona State's Kyson Brown, a junior, has the potential to lead the Sun Devils backfield, with internal candidates Jason Brown Jr. and Demarius Robinson in the mix. Colorado's Richard Young, with SEC experience, brings a one-cut power back to a program in need of a resurgence at the running back position. The 2026 season promises an exciting battle for running back supremacy in the Big 12, with a mix of returning stars and intriguing transfers.
