Several NFL Franchises Set To Move On from Legendary Running Backs
Multiple NFL running backs might depart their current teams and head for the open market. It was announced Monday that Derrick Henry of the Tennessee Titans, Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants, Tony Pollard of the Dallas Cowboys, and Austin Ekeler of the LA Chargers would not receive franchise tags.
After a 2023 offseason where three top running backs (Tony Pollard, Saquon Barkley, and Josh Jacobs) received franchise tags, none will receive it in 2024.
Many people wonder what they will do. There is some mention of “working out a deal” for a couple of them. It does not look likely for others. Their name and legacy will be welcomed by many. They can contribute to any team, and most of the league would want them.
Instead of analyzing where these four running backs will sign, let’s look at how these teams might replace them.
Tennessee Titans without Derrick Henry
Tennessee is in one of the more favorable positions out of all these scenarios. Tennessee thought that Derrick Henry may be leaving after the 2023 season. The Titans took Tyjae Spears in the 2023 draft with the 81st pick of the third round out of Tulane.
Tyjae had 100 carries for 453 yards and 52 receptions for 385 yards. Spears totaled three touchdowns as a relief to Derrick Henry.
Titans Wire of USA Today named Tyjae Spears the “Unsung Hero” of the 2023 season. “Spears didn’t get the kind of shine quarterback Will Levis received, but that’s to be expected with how much signal-callers are valued in today’s NFL. Even still, Titans fans know just how damn good he is.
Looking ahead to 2024, it remains to be seen if the Titans will re-sign Henry, but regardless of what happens with the franchise great, Spears has earned himself a more significant role.”
The Titans may add someone for depth at the position but should be in good hands heading into 2024 with Tyjae Spears.
New York Giants without Saquon Barkley
The New York Giants would be wise to hold on to Saquon Barkley. He was by far their best offensive weapon this past season but in a very dismal setting. He averaged 3.9 yards per carry, below the league average, but the next closest was Matt Breida at 2.7.
If they decide that the franchise back is too expensive, the New York Giants must replace him, and Breida won’t cut it. I would turn to one of the two top-backs in this year’s draft.
Jonathon Brooks is out of Texas: larger sized, good speed (about 4.45 40-yard dash), and agility.
Trey Benson is out of Florida State. It’s very comparable to Brooks. Perfect size. Good burst, strength, and balance.
We will see how they measure out at the combine, but this is the best bet for a Saquon replacement.
Dallas Cowboys without Tony Pollard
Adam Schefter announced Monday that Pollard will not get a franchise tag with the Cowboys. The Dallas Cowboys may have a relatively easy time moving on from Tony Pollard. He took on the lead role after a stellar 2022 season as RB2. Becoming the “bell cow” did not bode well for Tony.
The best bet for the Dallas Cowboys in 2024 is to swipe one of these names from this list that is about to leave. Maybe more than one.
Two leaders in the clubhouse looking for potential replacements are Derrick Henry, a name yet to be mentioned, and Josh Jacobs. These two would do wonders behind this all-star offensive line.
Los Angeles Chargers without Austin Ekeler
The LA Chargers have hired a new running backs coach, a new offensive coordinator, and a brand new staff. All signs lead to Ekeler out the door.
One name comes to mind for the next back for the Chargers. Bucky Irving.
Bucky Irving had a stellar collegiate career (first at Minnesota, then finished his last two at Oregon). He averaged over five yards per carry his first year and over six in his previous two years at Oregon.
Bucky caught over 56 receptions from Bo Nix this past season and had 13 total touchdowns. His measurables are the same as Ekeler’s coming out of college, and many would compare the two in style of play.
Whether you are looking for a rooting interest, dynasty players for fantasy football, or learning names for the next in line, it will be interesting to see these franchises’ direction.
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