A running back (RB) is a member of the offensive backfield in gridiron football. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback to rush the ball, to line up as a receiver to catch the ball, and block.

Running back is one of the most physically demanding positions in football. As the name suggests, RBs serve as the team’s main ball carrier on running plays. Their main responsibility is to receive the handoff from the quarterback and run the ball as efficiently as possible. Whether it’s straight through the defense or to the outside.