Christian McCaffrey finishes 2nd in AP’s top running backs poll behind Bijan Robinson

Christian McCaffrey finished second in the Associated Press’ 2026 ranking of the NFL’s top running backs.

What happened?

A panel of eight AP pro football writers ranked the top five running backs entering the 2026 season. First-place votes were worth 10 points, with second through fifth worth 5, 3, 2 and 1 points respectively.

Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons won the poll with 41 points, including three first-place votes. McCaffrey, playing for the San Francisco 49ers, earned two first-place votes and finished with 33 points. Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens came third with 30 points, followed by Saquon Barkley and Jahmyr Gibbs.

Why McCaffrey’s finish matters

McCaffrey’s second-place finish underscores his dual-threat value despite a dip in rushing production last season. He rushed for 1,202 yards at 3.9 yards per carry, well below his career norms. Yet he still nearly became the first player with two seasons of at least 1,000 yards rushing and receiving.

His receiving impact remained elite: 102 catches for 924 yards and 119 first downs, tying the NFL’s best mark in 15 years. Kyle Shanahan’s offense continues to rely on McCaffrey as a security blanket in the passing game.

How the voting broke down

Robinson led all players with 2,298 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns. Henry posted 1,595 rushing yards and set a record with his seventh 200-yard game. Barkley and Gibbs rounded out the top five after strong seasons.

McCaffrey’s 33 points put him ahead of Henry by three and well clear of Saquon Barkley in fourth. The gap to Robinson was eight points, a margin shaped by first-place votes and overall consistency.

What’s next for McCaffrey

McCaffrey will look to rebound from a down rushing year when the 49ers open training camp in late July. Shanahan has already hinted at a heavier dose of play-action and screens to maximize McCaffrey’s receiving skills.

The 2026 season could redefine McCaffrey’s legacy if he returns to Pro Bowl form. For now, he remains the league’s second-ranked running back heading into the fall.