Top-earning running backs and fullbacks in the Canadian Football League for 2026

The market for running backs in the Canadian Football League has seen steady growth in recent years, driven by strong on-field production. In 2025, six players surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark — the highest total the league has recorded since 2009 — highlighting the value of the position.

Within the CFL, the term “hard money” refers to guaranteed earnings a player receives regardless of injury. This includes base salary, signing bonuses, roster bonuses, housing and travel allowances, as well as training stipends. Although marketing income — officially categorized as “non-football-related services” — is not always guaranteed, it has been included here as part of hard money.

Additional earnings, often labeled as performance or playtime incentives, vary by contract. These bonuses are typically tied to metrics such as playing time, yardage production, touchdowns, tackles, or all-star selections. Player designations are also noted, with “N” indicating Nationals (Canadians) and “A” representing Americans.

Leading the way is Brady Oliveira of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, who has reset the market with $290,000 in hard money for 2026 after signing a new deal. He is followed by Greg Bell of the Ottawa Redblacks and Dedrick Mills of the Calgary Stampeders, both of whom secured significant raises after standout seasons.

Other notable earners include A.J. Ouellette with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Justin Rankin and Javon Leake of the Edmonton Elks, and James Butler of the BC Lions, all of whom are among the league’s top-paid players at the position.

Canadian talent is also well represented, with Daniel Adeboboye, David Dallaire of the Montreal Alouettes, and Ante Litre of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats all featuring prominently on the list.

Overall, the rising salaries reflect both the increasing importance of the running game in the CFL and the league’s willingness to reward consistent production at the position.