FILE – Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard (20) carries the ball during an NFL wild-card playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. Tony Pollard, Derrick Henry, Saquon Barkley, and Josh Jacobs are on the NFL’s open market. (AP Photo/Matt Patterson, File)
The new NFL league year is almost upon us, which means the free agency frenzy is about to begin. There are some really interesting storylines to follow this year, so make sure to take note of these before the chaos begins!
This year’s free running back group is probably the best in the last decade or so. Headlined by Derrick Henry, Josh Jacobs, and Saquon Barkley, the running back position also features names like D’Andre Swift, Tony Pollard, and Devin Singletary. There is an embarrassment of riches for teams looking to revamp their backfields, but how will it all play out?
Outside of a few exceptions, running backs are starting to be paid less and less in comparison to other positions. Sprinkle in the fact that a huge group of starting-level players are all hitting the open market at the same time, and it’s fair to assume that some previously expected hefty price tags could sharply drop.
Of course, it all depends on how other GM’s view the group. If Josh Jacobs was to catch on with the Titans, for instance, and sign a huge deal worth $12M+ per season, then it’s only going to drive up the value of players like Saquon and Henry. The inverse could also happen.
With the NFL draft also lacking first-round running back talent, it also presents an interesting conundrum for those teams needing backfield depth. Do they go all-in on a big name in free agency, or trust that someone like Trey Benson can contribute out of the gate?
While not as explosive as the Running Back group, there is a flurry of big-name defensive ends all looking for a new home this offseason. Marcus Davenport, Danielle Hunter, Chase Young, and Leonard Williams highlight a group that…
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