In an evolving NFL landscape, star running backs are feeling undervalued and underappreciated. The recent news of Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs playing the 2023 season on the franchise tag without securing long-term deals highlights the changing dynamics of the league.
Are teams neglecting the importance of running backs, and is it costing these exceptional players significant financial opportunities? A group of outraged NFL stars, including Derrick Henry, Christian McCaffrey, Austin Ekeler, Jonathan Taylor, and Najee Harris, is making their voices heard, demanding fair treatment and recognition. Is it time to reevaluate the value placed on running backs?
The days when running backs ruled the NFL seem to be fading away. Traditionally, these players were the face of the league, commanding long-term deals and significant financial rewards. However, times have changed, and teams no longer seem to prioritize the running back position as they once did. The repercussions of this shift are becoming evident, with players like Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs forced to play the upcoming season on the franchise tag.
The running back position has undergone a steady devaluation, and star players are paying the price. Running backs like Derrick Henry, Christian McCaffrey, Austin Ekeler, Jonathan Taylor, and Najee Harris are among those who have expressed their discontent with the current state of affairs in the NFL.
Derrick Henry, known for his dominant performances, took to Twitter, stating, “At this point, just take the RB position out the game then. The ones that want to be great & work as hard as they can to give their all to an organization, just seems like it doesn’t even matter. I’m with every RB that’s fighting to get what they deserve.”
Christian McCaffrey, widely regarded as one of the league’s best players, voiced his frustration, calling the situation “criminal.” He wrote, “This is Criminal. Three of the best PLAYERS in the entire league, regardless of position.”
Austin Ekeler chimed in, emphasizing the importance of running backs in the game and the lack of recognition they receive. “This is the kind of trash that has artificially devalued one of the most important positions in the game. Everyone knows it’s tough to win without a top RB, and yet they act like we are discardable widgets. I support any RB doing whatever it takes to get his bag.”
Jonathan Taylor, an emerging star, shared his perspective, stating, “If you’re good enough, they’ll find you. If you work hard enough, you’ll succeed… If you succeed… You boost the Organization… and then… Doesn’t matter, you’re a RB.”
Najee Harris, a promising rookie, echoed his fellow running backs’ sentiments, tweeting, “I agree with my running back brothers around the NFL – history will show that you need running backs to win – we set the tone every game and run through walls for our team and lead in many ways – this notion that we deserve less is a joke.”
The NFL could potentially lose its star running backs if the current trend continues. The demands and frustrations expressed by these exceptional players are justified, as the effort and dedication required to play the running back position are no longer being adequately rewarded. The league must address this issue to ensure the continued success and excitement that these players bring to the game. Is it time for the NFL to reassess the value it places on running backs? The fate of these essential playmakers hangs in the balance, and change may be necessary to keep the heart and soul of the game alive.
Suggested for you