This is now officially the best NFL free agent market for running backs in the history of the NFL. It was reported earlier that running back Saquon Barkley will not be franchised tagged and will also join the rest of the amazing running back talent as a free agent this off-season. Everyone in the NFL world is now saying the same thing: This is the best free agent market for backs ever.
Top NFL Running Backs Set To Hit Free Agency
This new wave in the NFL of the top running backs in the league all entering free agency highlights the zeitgeist in the league of how valuable running backs are. It is clear already that backs are having a tough time getting paid as they have such a short prime in the NFL. This off-season however, is the perfect example of the state of backs in the league today.
It was reported earlier by Ian Rapoport that:
“The #Giants are not franchise tagging RB Saquon Barkley again, source said. He’ll be one of the top free agents in a very good RB class,’ said NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
“Free-agent RB class now will be headlined by Saquon Barkley and include Josh Jacobs, Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, Tony Pollard and D’Andre Swift amongst others. Best class of RBs in free agent history,’ echoed ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
That list features 6 of the top ten best running backs of this previous season and arguably four of the top five in the entire league. The only top back that isn’t a free agent right now is Christian McCaffery.
Running Backs Are Under Valued In The NFL
While there are some of the best running backs available now in free agency, most analysts are reporting that they will not be making the big bucks. The league is not in the business of paying backs anymore as quarterbacks and receivers are the ones bringing in the money. However, many teams should be able to pay a back if they have a good quarterback on their rookie deal like the San Francisco 49ers.
“It would be surprising to see any RB make above 10mm/yr because of the depth of this free agent class,” added ESPN’s Mike Tannenbaum, a former NFL general manager.
“With arguably the deepest free agent running back class ever set to hit the open market, will any veteran RB secure $12M+ guaranteed this offseason?” wondered Spotrac’s Michael Ginnitti.
“It’s more telling that elite RBs are less important now, then it is that it’s such a great RB class. Great teams build around their elite QBs, WRs, and passing game,” one fan said.
As the fan noted, it is clear that the elite running backs are far less important in the modern league. The great teams build around the passing game and the defense. Gone are the days of the running game being the focal point of an offense.
We will have to see where all of these amazing running backs go. Contenders have to be looking at this list and thinking they could add one of the best backs in the league for the cheap.
Related: BREAKING: New York Giants Make Cruel Decision On Saquon Barkley For 2024 Season