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.

Philadelphia also doesn’t have a particularly pass-heavy attack with a mobile quarterback in Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

Rising rates could send investors running back to the safety of Big Tech.

From MarketWatch • May 16, 2026

Yet the next two picks were both offensive players, with the Arizona Cardinals selecting running back Jeremiyah Love before the Tennessee Titans sprang a surprise by taking wide receiver Carnell Tate.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

Gamble, who turns 36 in June, is a running back and linebacker for the Los Angeles Legends in the Women’s National Football Conference, a full-contact professional league consisting of 16 franchises across the United States.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2026

Jacob goes running back over the bridge toward Doctor Snow’s house.

From "The Knife of Never Letting Go" by Patrick Ness