The running back position is often seen as a very physically demanding position for teams around the NFL. Recently, renowned NFL analyst and former Denver Broncos star Shannon Sharpe stirred up the conversation by delivering a brutal assessment of the disrespect faced by running backs in the league.
In recent years, the league has shifted pass-heavy offensive schemes due to rule changes that favor the passing game and increased emphasis on quarterback play. This change has decreased the need to rely on traditional running backs as teams shifted to using other passing options, like slot receivers or tight ends.
More than that change, though, veteran running backs in the NFL often face difficulties in their contract negotiations because of longevity and the physical toll on their bodies. Many teams hesitate to invest in running backs due to the risk of injuries or declining performance as they age.
As a result of the physical toll, most running backs have a shorter career span than other positions in the NFL. These factors lead to a devaluation of guys playing this position, which can be seen in the lower average salaries for running backs and the fact that no team is expected to bestow a franchise tag for these players during the offseason.
NFL Legend Shannon Sharpe Gets Brutally Real On Running Backs Getting Disrespected In The League
Due to the disrespect teams have for running backs in the league, NFL legend and former Denver Broncos star Shannon Sharpe dropped a hot take on the issue. Speaking before Stephen A. Smith on First Take, Sharpe explains:
“We invest that kind of money and the guys getting 300 touches, let’s say conservatively, 300 touches a year. We give a guy $80 million, $90 million, we only hope to get one to two years out of them. But see, the thing is, if they run you into the ground on your rookie contract, and then they tell you we can’t pay you on the next contract.
Because that’s what they do, they run you to the ground with your rookie contract, and then they’re ready to move on or they franchise you and they say let me squeeze one more year where we get 300 touches from your body, and and then we’re going to discard you,” Sharpe said.
Coming from the league himself, Sharpe surely knows how these guys feel and the challenges they face, off and on the field. It remains to be seen how running backs will fare this offseason or if there will be changes that may come for these players in the coming season.
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