Kareem Hunt was, at one point, one of the most dynamic backs in the league. For the past couple of years, he has been the second running back in the two-headed backfield of him and Nick Chubb. His receiving ability and speed made him a valuable part of the team. However, the Cleveland Browns do not seem to be re-signing him and he has yet to have a visit to any team in free agency. The report is that he isn’t the same player and teams are noticing.
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Kareem Hunt Free Agency Woes
The report is that the 27-year-old back is “slipping” in terms of speed. As running backs approach 30, speed is usually the first thing that goes. If a running back does not have breakaway speed, the value goes way down. The report continues to say that Hunt “should be thankful” for a one-year prove-it deal in the range of $4 million a year. This is likely not what Hunt is looking for but he may not have a choice. He hasn’t visited any teams in free agency and players like Ezekiel Elliott are most likely to sign first.
Running Back Is A Tough Position
The running back position is always tough in terms of longevity. Most backs have a good three or four years before they start to show signs of wear. Players like DeMarco Murray, Le’Veon Bell, and many more were on top of the league at one point but after a few short years, were struggling to find a spot on an NFL roster. The market is saturated and new running backs without as many miles come into the league often. Backs like Kareem Hunt simply do not hold their value.
As free agency wears on, I would not be surprised if Hunt finds a team eventually. Injuries happen, priorities change, and a team that isn’t looking for a running back now may be looking for one in the future.