Running backs in the NFL face growing difficulties securing contracts that reflect their true value, with high-profile players such as Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Jonathan Taylor still awaiting offers they find acceptable.
The belief that running backs are expendable has become more widespread, as many argue that a strong offensive line combined with a competent player can sufficiently fill the role.
Joy Taylor, a respected analyst, has pushed back against this viewpoint, highlighting the unique impact that elite running backs bring to the field.
Despite Jonathan Taylor’s performance being hindered in 2022 due to an ankle injury, his 2021 achievements underscored his dominance, leading the league with 1,811 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns.
Saquon Barkley proved to be the cornerstone of the New York Giants’ offense last season, accumulating 1,312 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, leaving a void the team would struggle to fill in his absence.
Josh Jacobs also delivered an exceptional season in 2022, topping the NFL in rushing yards with 1,653 and leading in total yards from scrimmage with 2,053, reaffirming his value to the Las Vegas Raiders.
While advanced statistics often downplay the importance of running backs, top-tier players at the position have the ability to change games through explosive plays and crucial yardage gains.
Their contributions ease the workload on quarterbacks while opening up opportunities for other players in the passing game. With running backs increasingly vocal about their undervaluation, outstanding steps could soon redefine how their importance is measured and compensated in the league.
