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

During similar situations in the past, the Rams awarded then record-breaking extensions to defensive lineman Aaron Donald, running back Todd Gurley and quarterback Jared Goff.

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

"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

Pair by pair, he sent them running back to the ship, until the only crew left unaccounted for were Harison and Jigo.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee