running back

NOUN

football position

Synonyms

STRONGEST

fullback halfback tailback

WEAK

blocking back flanker back offensive back plunging back slotback wingback

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Running back Wayne Knight followed Chesney from James Madison and adds to an already gritty running back group that could become one of the team’s deepest units.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

I believe this because I worked alongside them during an earlier Mueller-led investigation into the National Football League’s handling of a domestic abuse case involving running back Ray Rice.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Also on Wednesday, the Rams announced that they re-signed running back Ronnie Rivers to a one-year contract.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

"It was insane, all the 12s that came out. It was cool to see," said Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker, the Super Bowl Most Valuable Player.

From Barron's • Feb. 11, 2026

His face contorted and neck veins bulging, arms and legs driving the pile forward like a running back.

From "We Were Here" by Matt De La Peña