running back

noun

Updated on: 7 Apr 2018

Definition of running back

: a football back (such as a halfback or fullback) who carries the ball on running plays

See running back defined for English-language learners

Recent Examples of running back from the Web

The progress has been steady this spring for Temple running back Jager Gardner, which is all the redshirt junior could ask for.

— marc narducci, Philly.com, "Temple's Jager Gardner working himself back into RB rotation," 3 Apr. 2018
Still, there are some notable returning pieces in running back Artavis Pierce, and wide receivers Isaiah Hodgins, Timmy Hernandez and Trevon Bradford, who will have their chances to make an imprint on their new coaches.

— OregonLive.com, "Oregon State Beavers spring football practice: 5 storylines to watch," 2 Apr. 2018
But Rams running back Todd Gurley said Thursday night that there was plenty of room in the offense for more playmakers.

— gary klein, latimes.com, "Todd Gurley says it would be ‘awesome’ if the Rams were to add Odell Beckham Jr.," 30 Mar. 2018
Minnesota did lose versatile running back Jerick McKinnon to the San Francisco 49ers, and starting guard Joe Berger, a Michigan Tech product, is retiring after 13 NFL seasons.

— dave birkett, Detroit Free Press, "Analyzing the loaded NFC North: 'Every team has gotten better'," 29 Mar. 2018
Though the Broncos lost some key special teamers such as running back Ryan Wolpin and snapper Brock Barr, many of the coverage units return, too.

— dave southorn, idahostatesman, "Though he’s never had a catch in a game, Boise State junior tight end impresses in spring | Idaho Statesman," 28 Mar. 2018
Destrehan 2019 running back John Emery, who is one of the top players in his class, visited Florida.

— amos morale iii, NOLA.com, "Kardell Thomas, Chester Kimbrough to The Opening; prospects take visits and more from a busy recruiting weekend," 26 Mar. 2018
His three-year tenure is remembered most for trading away an entire year of draft picks for running back Ricky Williams.

— Washington Post, "Saints, Pelicans owner Tom Benson dies at age 90," 15 Mar. 2018
San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny and North Carolina State’s Nyheim Hines are running backs who can help in the return game.

— zach berman, Philly.com, "What did the Eagles do in free agency, what's left to do this offseason, and who's left to sign? | Early Birds," 21 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'running back.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.