The Big 12 Conference is gearing up for an exciting season, with a strong focus on running backs. This year, the conference boasts an impressive lineup of talented rushers, many of whom are returning from successful seasons.
At the top of the list is LJ Martin of BYU, the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. Martin's decision to return for his senior year instead of declaring for the pros was a pivotal moment for BYU, and now he has the chance to lead the Cougars towards a College Football Playoff berth. However, a key question remains: can Martin stay healthy throughout the season? His durability will be a crucial factor in BYU's success.
Cameron Dickey of Texas Tech is another standout, leading the league in rushing touchdowns last season. With an uncertain quarterback situation, the Red Raiders may rely heavily on Dickey and his fellow junior J'Koby Williams to carry the offense. This could be a make-or-break year for Texas Tech, and these running backs will be central to their success.
Caleb Hawkins, who transferred from North Texas to Oklahoma State, is an intriguing prospect. His scoring prowess and impressive stats make him a key addition to the Cowboys' offense, which has struggled in recent years. Can Hawkins and quarterback Drew Mestemaker provide the spark Oklahoma State needs to turn things around?
Cam Cook, who made a successful move from TCU to Jacksonville State last season, is now at West Virginia. With his offensive line coach from Jacksonville State, Rick Trickett, joining the Mountaineers' staff, Cook has the potential to bring his impressive rushing stats with him. However, the impact of a new offensive line at Utah could affect his performance.
Wayshawn Parker of Utah had a standout season last year, finishing fourth in the league in rushing yards. With an improved average yards per carry over the final six games, Parker could be a force to be reckoned with in 2026. However, the Utes' offensive line changes may impact his numbers, so it will be interesting to see how he adapts.
Makhi Hughes, who transferred from Tulane to Oregon but saw limited action, now finds himself at Houston. Can he replicate his success at Tulane and become a valuable asset for the Cougars? His reunion with former coach Willie Fritz could be a key factor in his performance.
Joe Jackson of Kansas State had a solid season last year, but his late-season surge was impressive. With the addition of some intriguing transfer options at running back, including Rodney Fields Jr. and Jay Harris, Jackson will have competition for the starting role.
Jeremy Payne of TCU is a breakout candidate for 2026. His strong performance at the end of last season and the expected shift towards a run-heavy offense under new offensive coordinator Gordon Sammis could see Payne's production surge.
Dawson Pendergrass of Baylor missed the entire 2025 season due to injury, but with the departure of top back Bryson Washington, Pendergrass has an opportunity to shine. His previous stats suggest he could be a key figure in Baylor's offense.
Dylan Edwards, who transferred from Kansas State to Kansas, brings speed and versatility to the Jayhawks. His ability as both a runner and a returner could be a game-changer for Kansas, who are in search of a lead rusher.
UCF has two incoming transfers, Landen Chambers and Duke Watson, who could fill the starting running back role. With different skill sets, both players have shown potential, and this could be an exciting opportunity for them to make an impact.
Zion Johnson of Cincinnati is in a unique position, with the Bearcats restocking at running back. Johnson's solid performances late in the 2025 season and his spring camp showing suggest he could be the man to win the starting job.
Kedrick Reescano of Arizona has been a reliable backup for the Wildcats, and now he has the chance to step into the primary back role. With depth provided by fellow senior Quincy Craig and Marshall transfer Antwan Roberts, Arizona's running game looks promising.
Cameron Pettaway, who transferred from Bowling Green to Iowa State, showed flashes of brilliance last season. With a massive roster overhaul, the running back position is a question mark, but Pettaway and other transfers could provide the answer. His special teams skills, particularly his kickoff return ability, could be an added bonus for the Cyclones.
Kyson Brown of Arizona State had his 2025 season cut short by injury, but when healthy, he has shown the potential to lead the Sun Devils' backfield. With the departure of Raleek Brown, Kyson and other internal candidates like Jason Brown Jr. and Demarius Robinson will have the chance to step up.
Richard Young, who transferred from Alabama to Colorado, brings SEC experience to a Big 12 program in need of a running back resurgence. With a stagnant running game under Deion Sanders, Young's one-cut power style could be a welcome addition.
This Year of the Running Back in the Big 12 promises to be an exciting one, with plenty of talent and intriguing storylines. From transfers to returning stars, these running backs will be central to their teams' success, and their performances will be closely watched.
