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.

One position group that has impressed Chesney since he arrived in Westwood is running back — a unit that returns a number of players.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 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

He's got no excuse not to run back if Beckham is running back and doing that and he's the captain.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

He finished with 341 yards on 59 carries last season as the Ravens’ No. 2 running back behind star Derrick Henry.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

I reach up, pulling myself to my feet, and start running back to my room.

From "Five Feet Apart" by Rachael Lippincott