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Breece Hall, Javonte Williams top free agency running back rankings

Breece Hall, Javonte Williams top free agency running back rankings

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The Super Bowl is almost here, which means the start of NFL free agency for the 2026 season is close at hand. Teams are hard at work building out their plans for their own players, while keeping a close eye on the available free agents heading into the 2026 offseason. Today we’re going to take a look at the projected free agent running backs in the 2026 class, as I give my best guess at how these players are likely to be ranked by NFL teams.

This is a very strong group at first glance–though like all free agency projections, it depends on how many of these players are ultimately re-signed by their original teams. There are a number of lead backs available and even some top-end talent, along with some high-end committee backs and players with upside. Let’s take a closer look at the top running backs available in 2026 free agency.

1.) Breece Hall, New York Jets

2025 Stats: 16 games played, 243 attempts for 1065 yards (4.4 YPC), 4 rushing TDs, 36 receptions for 350 yards (9.7 YPR), 1 receiving TD, 2 fumbles

Breece Hall has been talked about as an up-and-coming breakout star for years. Now with the potential to be freed from the shackles of perpetually anemic Jets offenses, Hall could have a massive second act. He’s a dangerous rushing and receiving threat who can operate as the bell cow for an offense. We’ll see how highly the NFL views him, but I’d expect Hall to command the largest salary of any upcoming free agent running back.

2.) Javonte Williams, Dallas Cowboys

2025 Stats: 16 games played, 252 attempts for 1201 yards (4.8 YPC), 11 rushing TDs, 35 receptions for 137 yards (3.9 YPR), 2 receiving TDs, 2 fumbles

Javonte Williams was a favorite of mine back in the 2021 NFL Draft, starting strong with the Broncos before injuries threatened to completely derail his career. He simply didn’t look the same over the remaining years of his rookie contract, leading to him to take a prove-it deal with the Cowboys last offseason. The rest is history, as Williams bounced back in a big way as one of the biggest free agent success stories of 2025. Just 26 years old heading into 2026, Williams has an opportunity to cash in.

3.) Travis Etienne, Jacksonville Jaguars

2025 Stats: 17 games played, 260 attempts for 1107 yards (4.3 YPC), 7 rushing TDs, 36 receptions for 292 yards (8.1 YPR), 6 receiving TDs, 1 fumble

Travis Etienne has been a good, not great, running back starter throughout his rookie contract with the Jaguars. His consistency and ability in the red zone as both a runner and receiver really peaked in 2025, with Etienne showing he can definitely be a focal point running back for a team. It’ll be interesting to see if the Jaguars prioritize re-signing Etienne, or if he’s allowed to test the free agent market this offseason.

4.) Rico Dowdle, Carolina Panthers

2025 Stats: 17 games played, 236 attempts for 1076 yards (4.6 YPC), 6 rushing TDs, 39 receptions for 297 yards (7.6 YPR), 1 receiving TD, 2 fumbles

Another post-rookie contract success story, Rico Dowdle burst onto the scene with the Cowboys in 2024 by notching his first 1000-yard rushing season. Dallas strangely decided to let him walk in favor of Javonte Williams (a risky maneuver which ultimately paid off), with Dowdle heading to the Panthers to join a timeshare with Chuba Hubbard. Dowdle had a terrific October, including a 203-yard rushing game against the Dolphins, but struggled with consistency all season. It’ll be fascinating to see how the NFL values him this offseason after a poor finish to 2025.

5.) Kenneth Walker III, Seattle Seahawks

2025 Stats: 17 games played, 221 attempts for 1027 yards (4.6 YPC), 5 rushing TDs, 31 receptions for 282 yards (9.1 YPR), 1 fumble

Kenneth Walker finally managed to play a full season in the NFL, and with Zach Charbonnet’s season-ending injury in the playoffs, is likely to be a critical component in Seattle’s potential Super Bowl victory. Walker has always been an electric but inconsistent rusher with flashes of greatness in the passing game. His inability to stay on the field likely keeps him from getting the bell-cow treatment, but his style of play makes him a tantalizing big play addition to any offense.

6.) Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons

2025 Stats: 17 games played, 143 attempts for 514 yards (3.6 YPC), 8 rushing TDs, 14 receptions for 96 yards (6.9 YPR)

Cursed to be stuck behind arguably the best running back in the NFL in Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier never got a second chance to be a lead back in Atlanta after an outstanding 1000-yard rushing season as a rookie in 2022. Allgeier has since developed into a red-zone specialist, notching eight rushing touchdowns in 2025 on just 143 carries. His role as a short-yardage bruiser and late-game closer hurt his efficiency, but Allgeier still has the talent to lead a backfield. Also noteworthy: zero fumbles in four seasons in the NFL.

7.) Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2025 Stats: 17 games played, 132 attempts for 572 yards (4.3 YPC), 4 rushing TDs, 40 receptions for 218 yards (5.5 YPR)

This is the line for “potential starters” in this running back class. One of the more consistently solid runners in the NFL, Rachaad White never really took the next step with the Bucs and has been largely outshined by Bucky Irving over the past two seasons. He’s still an effective rusher and receiver who can be an important part of a committee, but White lacks the top-end flashes to demand an NFL starting job. He did cut down on the fumbles significantly this year, with none in 2025 after notching 9 over the previous three seasons.

8.) J.K. Dobbins, Denver Broncos

2025 Stats: 10 games played, 153 attempts for 772 yards (5.0 YPC), 4 rushing TDs, 11 receptions for 37 yards (3.4 YPR)

It’s truly sad that we may never get to see a fully healthy season from J.K. Dobbins, who has dealt with significant injuries in every single season as a pro. Outside of those injuries, it’s clear that Dobbins is one of the better pure runners in the NFL. He was on pace to put up his best season yet with the Broncos in 2025 before another injury cut his season short. Dobbins can’t be trusted to play 17 games, capping his ceiling as the primary runner in a committee, but he’s been very impactful when healthy.

9.) Kenneth Gainwell, Pittsburgh Steelers

2025 Stats: 17 games played, 114 attempts for 537 yards (4.7 YPC), 5 rushing TDs, 73 receptions for 486 yards (6.7 YPR), 3 receiving TDs, 2 fumbles

Kenneth Gainwell enjoyed a breakout season with the Steelers in 2025, taking over the backfield at times during the season alongside his typical contributions in the receiving game. Gainwell is still inconsistent and is a bit of a boom or bust runner, but he’s one of the more proven committee backs in this free agency class.

10.) Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City Chiefs

2025 Stats: 13 games played, 118 attempts for 462 yards (3.9 YPC), 1 rushing TD, 19 receptions for 101 yards (5.3 YPR), 1 receiving TD

Another running back whose career has been derailed by injuries, Isiah Pacheco simply appears to have lost some juice compared to his electric first two years in the NFL. He’s still an effective runner and can be a significant contributor in a committee, but injuries and inconsistency keep him from finishing higher on this list.

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Deadspin | Dodgers, with a big trade win in hand, look to avoid sweep vs. Red Sox Aug 1, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages (44) slides into second base in the bottom of the fifth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Navarro-Imagn Images Not only did the Los Angeles Dodgers land the prize of the trade deadline when they acquired Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers on Saturday, they managed to retain right-hander Emmet Sheehan in the process. One initial report had Sheehan as part of the return package to the Tigers, before it was learned he would be staying put. Neither the Tigers nor Dodgers have officially confirmed the trade. Still, Sheehan indeed will take the mound for the Dodgers on Sunday night in Los Angeles as they try to avoid a sweep by the Boston Red Sox. Sheehan (4-7, 4.95 ERA) has been on something of a revival of late by allowing two earned runs or fewer in four of his past five starts. He gave up one run over five innings in a no-decision against the New York Mets in an 8-3 loss last Sunday. “I think last week, I found something a little bit into that start where I was able to carry it and kind of get some momentum going into this one, so yeah, I feel good,” Sheehan told SportsNet LA. In his lone career start against the Red Sox, Sheehan earned the 5-2 win on July 25, 2015. He allowed two runs on three hits and two walks and struck out five over five innings. Los Angeles did some shuffling with its bullpen on Saturday when right-handers Kyle Hurt and Wyatt Mills were recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Left-hander Cole Irvin was designated for assignment while right-hander Will Klein (elbow) was placed on the injured list. And while preventing a sweep is a high priority, there is now slightly more anticipation for the days ahead when Skubal arrives. “I was hearing some rumors about that, but then it actually happened and I’m pretty surprised,” Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto said through an interpreter of the Skubal acquisition. After the Red Sox won the series opener 9-4 on Friday, they set up the chance for the sweep with a 3-2 victory on Saturday. Ceddanne Rafaela hit two home runs in the victory after he also went deep Friday. The three home runs came in a span of four at-bats over the two games. “He’s otherworldly right now,” Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said. “He’s been good all year long and obviously the home runs are showing up on this road trip, and so many of them massive home runs. I think it’s safe to say he’s been a key contributor to most of these wins.” Boston will send left-hander Jake Bennett (6-4, 2.74) to the mound in a nationally televised standalone game. The rookie will be making his 12th career start and just saw a five-start win streak come to an end when he gave up three runs over 6 1/3 innings on Tuesday in a 4-3 loss against the Athletics. Boston was without first baseman Willson Contreras on Saturday after he was hit in the helmet by a 95.4-mph fastball from Klein on Friday. His day off was a precaution with his status for Sunday still uncertain. After his big night, Rafaela was asked about the Dodgers landing Skubal. “I think they have everybody, probably,” Rafaela said. “I think good for them, they got a good pitcher. But I think we’re not going to pay too much attention to that and are looking forward to keep winning ballgames like we’re doing over here.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Dodgers #big #trade #win #hand #avoid #sweep #Red #SoxAug 1, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages (44) slides into second base in the bottom of the fifth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Navarro-Imagn Images

Not only did the Los Angeles Dodgers land the prize of the trade deadline when they acquired Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers on Saturday, they managed to retain right-hander Emmet Sheehan in the process.

One initial report had Sheehan as part of the return package to the Tigers, before it was learned he would be staying put. Neither the Tigers nor Dodgers have officially confirmed the trade.

Still, Sheehan indeed will take the mound for the Dodgers on Sunday night in Los Angeles as they try to avoid a sweep by the Boston Red Sox.

Sheehan (4-7, 4.95 ERA) has been on something of a revival of late by allowing two earned runs or fewer in four of his past five starts. He gave up one run over five innings in a no-decision against the New York Mets in an 8-3 loss last Sunday.

“I think last week, I found something a little bit into that start where I was able to carry it and kind of get some momentum going into this one, so yeah, I feel good,” Sheehan told SportsNet LA.

In his lone career start against the Red Sox, Sheehan earned the 5-2 win on July 25, 2015. He allowed two runs on three hits and two walks and struck out five over five innings.

Los Angeles did some shuffling with its bullpen on Saturday when right-handers Kyle Hurt and Wyatt Mills were recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Left-hander Cole Irvin was designated for assignment while right-hander Will Klein (elbow) was placed on the injured list.


And while preventing a sweep is a high priority, there is now slightly more anticipation for the days ahead when Skubal arrives.

“I was hearing some rumors about that, but then it actually happened and I’m pretty surprised,” Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto said through an interpreter of the Skubal acquisition.

After the Red Sox won the series opener 9-4 on Friday, they set up the chance for the sweep with a 3-2 victory on Saturday. Ceddanne Rafaela hit two home runs in the victory after he also went deep Friday. The three home runs came in a span of four at-bats over the two games.

“He’s otherworldly right now,” Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said. “He’s been good all year long and obviously the home runs are showing up on this road trip, and so many of them massive home runs. I think it’s safe to say he’s been a key contributor to most of these wins.”

Boston will send left-hander Jake Bennett (6-4, 2.74) to the mound in a nationally televised standalone game.

The rookie will be making his 12th career start and just saw a five-start win streak come to an end when he gave up three runs over 6 1/3 innings on Tuesday in a 4-3 loss against the Athletics.

Boston was without first baseman Willson Contreras on Saturday after he was hit in the helmet by a 95.4-mph fastball from Klein on Friday. His day off was a precaution with his status for Sunday still uncertain.

After his big night, Rafaela was asked about the Dodgers landing Skubal.

“I think they have everybody, probably,” Rafaela said. “I think good for them, they got a good pitcher. But I think we’re not going to pay too much attention to that and are looking forward to keep winning ballgames like we’re doing over here.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Dodgers #big #trade #win #hand #avoid #sweep #Red #Sox">Deadspin | Dodgers, with a big trade win in hand, look to avoid sweep vs. Red Sox Aug 1, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder Andy Pages (44) slides into second base in the bottom of the fifth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Navarro-Imagn Images Not only did the Los Angeles Dodgers land the prize of the trade deadline when they acquired Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers on Saturday, they managed to retain right-hander Emmet Sheehan in the process. One initial report had Sheehan as part of the return package to the Tigers, before it was learned he would be staying put. Neither the Tigers nor Dodgers have officially confirmed the trade. Still, Sheehan indeed will take the mound for the Dodgers on Sunday night in Los Angeles as they try to avoid a sweep by the Boston Red Sox. Sheehan (4-7, 4.95 ERA) has been on something of a revival of late by allowing two earned runs or fewer in four of his past five starts. He gave up one run over five innings in a no-decision against the New York Mets in an 8-3 loss last Sunday. “I think last week, I found something a little bit into that start where I was able to carry it and kind of get some momentum going into this one, so yeah, I feel good,” Sheehan told SportsNet LA. In his lone career start against the Red Sox, Sheehan earned the 5-2 win on July 25, 2015. He allowed two runs on three hits and two walks and struck out five over five innings. Los Angeles did some shuffling with its bullpen on Saturday when right-handers Kyle Hurt and Wyatt Mills were recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Left-hander Cole Irvin was designated for assignment while right-hander Will Klein (elbow) was placed on the injured list. And while preventing a sweep is a high priority, there is now slightly more anticipation for the days ahead when Skubal arrives. “I was hearing some rumors about that, but then it actually happened and I’m pretty surprised,” Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto said through an interpreter of the Skubal acquisition. After the Red Sox won the series opener 9-4 on Friday, they set up the chance for the sweep with a 3-2 victory on Saturday. Ceddanne Rafaela hit two home runs in the victory after he also went deep Friday. The three home runs came in a span of four at-bats over the two games. “He’s otherworldly right now,” Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said. “He’s been good all year long and obviously the home runs are showing up on this road trip, and so many of them massive home runs. I think it’s safe to say he’s been a key contributor to most of these wins.” Boston will send left-hander Jake Bennett (6-4, 2.74) to the mound in a nationally televised standalone game. The rookie will be making his 12th career start and just saw a five-start win streak come to an end when he gave up three runs over 6 1/3 innings on Tuesday in a 4-3 loss against the Athletics. Boston was without first baseman Willson Contreras on Saturday after he was hit in the helmet by a 95.4-mph fastball from Klein on Friday. His day off was a precaution with his status for Sunday still uncertain. After his big night, Rafaela was asked about the Dodgers landing Skubal. “I think they have everybody, probably,” Rafaela said. “I think good for them, they got a good pitcher. But I think we’re not going to pay too much attention to that and are looking forward to keep winning ballgames like we’re doing over here.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Dodgers #big #trade #win #hand #avoid #sweep #Red #Sox

The Los Angeles Sparks are trading Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury for Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick, per ESPN. Plum, a five-time All-Star, is averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game this season — both career-highs — but she’s appeared in just 12 games due to a litany of lower-leg injuries.

Plum was long-rumored to be in trade talks ahead of Sunday’s midseason trade deadline; the Sparks are 10-17 and losers of 6 straight games (all without Plum). If she was unlikely to re-sign this offseason, as was widely reported, Los Angeles had to trade her to recoup some value for their top asset.

Now, they’ll lean back into the rebuild, acquiring a prospective lottery pick in next year’s draft and a promising young player in Akoa Makani.

The Mercury are 11-19 and currently sit six games out of the playoff race. Plum immediately provides them with a massive offensive boost. But was it worth giving up draft capital for a potential one-year rental?

Here are the biggest potential winners and losers from the blockbuster trade that sent Kelsey Plum to Phoenix.

Potential Winner: Los Angeles Sparks

The Sparks shouldn’t have made the Kelsey Plum deal two years ago. Instead, they should have leaned into the rebuild, drafted Dominique Malonga — who is already an All-Star — and built for the future. But they went all-in, it backfired, and it’s time to course-correct. While the return for Plum wasn’t massive, it’s still sizable, especially when she was likely to walk away for nothing this offseason. Now, they’ll have two top picks in 2027 — their own and Phoenix’s — and begin to truly rebuild, albeit a few years delayed.

Akoa Makani, who was an undrafted rookie last year, is a sneaky big part of this deal, too. She is averaging 9.4 points, 2.5 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game this season, while continuing to establish herself as a strong perimeter defender.

Potential Loser: Golden State Valkyries

The Valkyries still seem to be a piece away from championship contention, though this roster has been pretty successful as-is. But Plum was long rumored to land in Golden State, and trading for her at the trade deadline seemed like a feasible pathway forward.

Could the Valkyries have acquired Plum for a few picks and a young player? Golden State has the assets, but clearly didn’t prioritize going all-in.

That move may pay off long-term, but it’s also possible that Golden State will regret not trading for one of the league’s top guards when they had the chance. They’re currently 19-10 — owners of the WNBA’s third-best record — but have lost two straight. If they suffer an early playoff exit this season, the decision to not go all-in for Plum will be revisited. At the same time, if Golden State learned Plum was unlikely to re-sign in the offseason, the decision to not go for her makes perfect sense.

Potential Winner: Kelsey Plum

The Los Angeles Sparks are going nowhere this season; that much is clear. So, it’s inherently a win for Plum to head elsewhere. Phoenix is not too far from home, and while they’re out of the playoff mix right now, they’re trending upwards, having split their last 14 games and winning three of their last four. There were better win-now destinations for Plum, but the worst-case scenario would have been not getting traded at the deadline at all.

Potential Loser: The Phoenix Mercury

The deal could be fruitful if Plum signs a long-term extension with the franchise. But if she walks in the offseason, it’s a disastrous move for the Mercury, who give up one of their most consistent young players as well as critical future draft capital. It’s especially risky because Phoenix is unlikely to make the playoffs this season, so in a worst-case scenario, Plum is a one-year rental on a team that won’t even make the postseason.

But in a best-case scenario, a roster headlined by Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper — and fresh off a WNBA Finals appearance — adds one of the league’s best guards for the long term. The effectiveness of this move will be measured based on whether Plum signs an extension.

#Blockbuster #Kelsey #Plum #trade #biggest #winners #losers">Blockbuster Kelsey Plum trade: biggest winners and losers The Los Angeles Sparks are trading Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury for Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick, per ESPN. Plum, a five-time All-Star, is averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game this season — both career-highs — but she’s appeared in just 12 games due to a litany of lower-leg injuries.Plum was long-rumored to be in trade talks ahead of Sunday’s midseason trade deadline; the Sparks are 10-17 and losers of 6 straight games (all without Plum). If she was unlikely to re-sign this offseason, as was widely reported, Los Angeles had to trade her to recoup some value for their top asset.Now, they’ll lean back into the rebuild, acquiring a prospective lottery pick in next year’s draft and a promising young player in Akoa Makani.The Mercury are 11-19 and currently sit six games out of the playoff race. Plum immediately provides them with a massive offensive boost. But was it worth giving up draft capital for a potential one-year rental?Here are the biggest potential winners and losers from the blockbuster trade that sent Kelsey Plum to Phoenix. Potential Winner: Los Angeles SparksThe Sparks shouldn’t have made the Kelsey Plum deal two years ago. Instead, they should have leaned into the rebuild, drafted Dominique Malonga — who is already an All-Star — and built for the future. But they went all-in, it backfired, and it’s time to course-correct. While the return for Plum wasn’t massive, it’s still sizable, especially when she was likely to walk away for nothing this offseason. Now, they’ll have two top picks in 2027 — their own and Phoenix’s — and begin to truly rebuild, albeit a few years delayed.Akoa Makani, who was an undrafted rookie last year, is a sneaky big part of this deal, too. She is averaging 9.4 points, 2.5 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game this season, while continuing to establish herself as a strong perimeter defender.Potential Loser: Golden State ValkyriesThe Valkyries still seem to be a piece away from championship contention, though this roster has been pretty successful as-is. But Plum was long rumored to land in Golden State, and trading for her at the trade deadline seemed like a feasible pathway forward.Could the Valkyries have acquired Plum for a few picks and a young player? Golden State has the assets, but clearly didn’t prioritize going all-in.That move may pay off long-term, but it’s also possible that Golden State will regret not trading for one of the league’s top guards when they had the chance. They’re currently 19-10 — owners of the WNBA’s third-best record — but have lost two straight. If they suffer an early playoff exit this season, the decision to not go all-in for Plum will be revisited. At the same time, if Golden State learned Plum was unlikely to re-sign in the offseason, the decision to not go for her makes perfect sense.Potential Winner: Kelsey Plum The Los Angeles Sparks are going nowhere this season; that much is clear. So, it’s inherently a win for Plum to head elsewhere. Phoenix is not too far from home, and while they’re out of the playoff mix right now, they’re trending upwards, having split their last 14 games and winning three of their last four. There were better win-now destinations for Plum, but the worst-case scenario would have been not getting traded at the deadline at all.Potential Loser: The Phoenix Mercury The deal could be fruitful if Plum signs a long-term extension with the franchise. But if she walks in the offseason, it’s a disastrous move for the Mercury, who give up one of their most consistent young players as well as critical future draft capital. It’s especially risky because Phoenix is unlikely to make the playoffs this season, so in a worst-case scenario, Plum is a one-year rental on a team that won’t even make the postseason.But in a best-case scenario, a roster headlined by Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper — and fresh off a WNBA Finals appearance — adds one of the league’s best guards for the long term. The effectiveness of this move will be measured based on whether Plum signs an extension. #Blockbuster #Kelsey #Plum #trade #biggest #winners #losers

Pakistan’s Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has come in for criticism after his disappointing performance at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Nadeem finished ninth with a sub-80 effort, with Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage winning gold and India’s Neeraj Chopra and Yash Vir Singh finishing second and third, respectively.

The outcome was not unexpected, keeping in mind Arshad took part in only one preparatory event in Switzerland in 2026 for the CWG and that he spent all his time training in the hot weather in Lahore without working with any foreign coaches or trainers in person.

Arshad, who has previously trained under South African coach Terseus Liebengberg, trained with his local trainers and coach Salman Butt.

Meanwhile, Arshad’s archrival Neeraj had his final preparation and rehabilitation camp at his training camp in Biene in Switzerland, and the other Indians, Rohit Yadav and Yash Vir, trained in Spala, Poland, with foreign coaches and trainers.

READ: CWG 2026: All-Asian javelin podium as Pathirage pips Neeraj to win gold, Yash Vir clinches bronze

Arshad, defending champion at the Commonwealth Games after winning the gold in Birmingham 2022 with a best of 90.12 metres, was unable to even cross the 80-metre mark in the finals in Glasgow.

He failed to qualify for the final round of eight due to his poor performance, dashing Pakistan’s hopes of another medal in the Games.

For his fans it was a big letdown, especially having had won the Olympic gold medal with a record throw of 92.97.

Butt admitted that Arshad was nowhere near his best in the CWG and was underprepared.

While Arshad is also to be partially blamed for his fall, as he clearly didn’t look 100 per cent fit in the finals, he has also had to battle many issues off the track; the biggest one being the Pakistan Amateur Athletics Federation (PAAF) totally disowning him after a feud over the retention of Butt as coach last year.

ALSO READ: CWG 2026: Neeraj Chopra wins silver in javelin throw with season-best effort

A reliable source close to Arshad said that since late last year, the PAAF and even the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) have not made life easy for the javelin thrower.

The PAAF, the source said, totally distanced itself from Arshad’s preparations and left him on his own, and when he made a few requests pertaining to his training, they were not entertained.

Similarly, the PSB also didn’t release any funds for foreign coaches to help Arshad train even in Lahore.

“This is an athlete who is self-made and comes from a village and belonged to a low-income family. But he brought so much glory to Pakistan with his gold medals. And yet he couldn’t prepare properly for the CWG. It is a sad reflection on our sports structure,” former Olympic boxing bronze medallist Hussain Shah said.

Even Pakistan’s first female to win a medal in the Commonwealth Games, boxer Fatima Zehra, has rued that if she had got better training and exposure, she could have won the gold in her weight category.

Fatima still managed to bag a bronze in the boxing event, which is Pakistan’s only medal in the CWG thus far after sending a 36-member contingent.

Published on Aug 02, 2026

#Arshad #Nadeem #cops #criticism #poor #show #Glasgow">Arshad Nadeem cops criticism for poor show in Glasgow Pakistan’s Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has come in for criticism after his disappointing performance at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.Nadeem finished ninth with a sub-80 effort, with Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage winning gold and India’s Neeraj Chopra and Yash Vir Singh finishing second and third, respectively.The outcome was not unexpected, keeping in mind Arshad took part in only one preparatory event in Switzerland in 2026 for the CWG and that he spent all his time training in the hot weather in Lahore without working with any foreign coaches or trainers in person.Arshad, who has previously trained under South African coach Terseus Liebengberg, trained with his local trainers and coach Salman Butt.Meanwhile, Arshad’s archrival Neeraj had his final preparation and rehabilitation camp at his training camp in Biene in Switzerland, and the other Indians, Rohit Yadav and Yash Vir, trained in Spala, Poland, with foreign coaches and trainers.READ: CWG 2026: All-Asian javelin podium as Pathirage pips Neeraj to win gold, Yash Vir clinches bronzeArshad, defending champion at the Commonwealth Games after winning the gold in Birmingham 2022 with a best of 90.12 metres, was unable to even cross the 80-metre mark in the finals in Glasgow.He failed to qualify for the final round of eight due to his poor performance, dashing Pakistan’s hopes of another medal in the Games.For his fans it was a big letdown, especially having had won the Olympic gold medal with a record throw of 92.97.Butt admitted that Arshad was nowhere near his best in the CWG and was underprepared.While Arshad is also to be partially blamed for his fall, as he clearly didn’t look 100 per cent fit in the finals, he has also had to battle many issues off the track; the biggest one being the Pakistan Amateur Athletics Federation (PAAF) totally disowning him after a feud over the retention of Butt as coach last year.ALSO READ: CWG 2026: Neeraj Chopra wins silver in javelin throw with season-best effortA reliable source close to Arshad said that since late last year, the PAAF and even the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) have not made life easy for the javelin thrower.The PAAF, the source said, totally distanced itself from Arshad’s preparations and left him on his own, and when he made a few requests pertaining to his training, they were not entertained.Similarly, the PSB also didn’t release any funds for foreign coaches to help Arshad train even in Lahore.“This is an athlete who is self-made and comes from a village and belonged to a low-income family. But he brought so much glory to Pakistan with his gold medals. And yet he couldn’t prepare properly for the CWG. It is a sad reflection on our sports structure,” former Olympic boxing bronze medallist Hussain Shah said.Even Pakistan’s first female to win a medal in the Commonwealth Games, boxer Fatima Zehra, has rued that if she had got better training and exposure, she could have won the gold in her weight category.Fatima still managed to bag a bronze in the boxing event, which is Pakistan’s only medal in the CWG thus far after sending a 36-member contingent.Published on Aug 02, 2026 #Arshad #Nadeem #cops #criticism #poor #show #Glasgow

CWG 2026: All-Asian javelin podium as Pathirage pips Neeraj to win gold, Yash Vir clinches bronze

Arshad, defending champion at the Commonwealth Games after winning the gold in Birmingham 2022 with a best of 90.12 metres, was unable to even cross the 80-metre mark in the finals in Glasgow.

He failed to qualify for the final round of eight due to his poor performance, dashing Pakistan’s hopes of another medal in the Games.

For his fans it was a big letdown, especially having had won the Olympic gold medal with a record throw of 92.97.

Butt admitted that Arshad was nowhere near his best in the CWG and was underprepared.

While Arshad is also to be partially blamed for his fall, as he clearly didn’t look 100 per cent fit in the finals, he has also had to battle many issues off the track; the biggest one being the Pakistan Amateur Athletics Federation (PAAF) totally disowning him after a feud over the retention of Butt as coach last year.

ALSO READ: CWG 2026: Neeraj Chopra wins silver in javelin throw with season-best effort

A reliable source close to Arshad said that since late last year, the PAAF and even the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) have not made life easy for the javelin thrower.

The PAAF, the source said, totally distanced itself from Arshad’s preparations and left him on his own, and when he made a few requests pertaining to his training, they were not entertained.

Similarly, the PSB also didn’t release any funds for foreign coaches to help Arshad train even in Lahore.

“This is an athlete who is self-made and comes from a village and belonged to a low-income family. But he brought so much glory to Pakistan with his gold medals. And yet he couldn’t prepare properly for the CWG. It is a sad reflection on our sports structure,” former Olympic boxing bronze medallist Hussain Shah said.

Even Pakistan’s first female to win a medal in the Commonwealth Games, boxer Fatima Zehra, has rued that if she had got better training and exposure, she could have won the gold in her weight category.

Fatima still managed to bag a bronze in the boxing event, which is Pakistan’s only medal in the CWG thus far after sending a 36-member contingent.

Published on Aug 02, 2026

#Arshad #Nadeem #cops #criticism #poor #show #Glasgow">Arshad Nadeem cops criticism for poor show in Glasgow

Pakistan’s Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has come in for criticism after his disappointing performance at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Nadeem finished ninth with a sub-80 effort, with Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage winning gold and India’s Neeraj Chopra and Yash Vir Singh finishing second and third, respectively.

The outcome was not unexpected, keeping in mind Arshad took part in only one preparatory event in Switzerland in 2026 for the CWG and that he spent all his time training in the hot weather in Lahore without working with any foreign coaches or trainers in person.

Arshad, who has previously trained under South African coach Terseus Liebengberg, trained with his local trainers and coach Salman Butt.

Meanwhile, Arshad’s archrival Neeraj had his final preparation and rehabilitation camp at his training camp in Biene in Switzerland, and the other Indians, Rohit Yadav and Yash Vir, trained in Spala, Poland, with foreign coaches and trainers.

READ: CWG 2026: All-Asian javelin podium as Pathirage pips Neeraj to win gold, Yash Vir clinches bronze

Arshad, defending champion at the Commonwealth Games after winning the gold in Birmingham 2022 with a best of 90.12 metres, was unable to even cross the 80-metre mark in the finals in Glasgow.

He failed to qualify for the final round of eight due to his poor performance, dashing Pakistan’s hopes of another medal in the Games.

For his fans it was a big letdown, especially having had won the Olympic gold medal with a record throw of 92.97.

Butt admitted that Arshad was nowhere near his best in the CWG and was underprepared.

While Arshad is also to be partially blamed for his fall, as he clearly didn’t look 100 per cent fit in the finals, he has also had to battle many issues off the track; the biggest one being the Pakistan Amateur Athletics Federation (PAAF) totally disowning him after a feud over the retention of Butt as coach last year.

ALSO READ: CWG 2026: Neeraj Chopra wins silver in javelin throw with season-best effort

A reliable source close to Arshad said that since late last year, the PAAF and even the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) have not made life easy for the javelin thrower.

The PAAF, the source said, totally distanced itself from Arshad’s preparations and left him on his own, and when he made a few requests pertaining to his training, they were not entertained.

Similarly, the PSB also didn’t release any funds for foreign coaches to help Arshad train even in Lahore.

“This is an athlete who is self-made and comes from a village and belonged to a low-income family. But he brought so much glory to Pakistan with his gold medals. And yet he couldn’t prepare properly for the CWG. It is a sad reflection on our sports structure,” former Olympic boxing bronze medallist Hussain Shah said.

Even Pakistan’s first female to win a medal in the Commonwealth Games, boxer Fatima Zehra, has rued that if she had got better training and exposure, she could have won the gold in her weight category.

Fatima still managed to bag a bronze in the boxing event, which is Pakistan’s only medal in the CWG thus far after sending a 36-member contingent.

Published on Aug 02, 2026

#Arshad #Nadeem #cops #criticism #poor #show #Glasgow

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