Title: NFL Running Backs Discuss Depressed Market for Players at Their Position
Introduction
Several star NFL running backs recently participated in a Zoom call to address the depressed market for players at their position. The meeting, organized by Austin Ekeler of the Los Angeles Chargers, aimed to discuss the challenges faced by running backs in terms of fair compensation. This article will delve into the details of the call and shed light on the concerns raised by these players.
The Zoom Call and Participants
Cleveland Browns running back Nick Chubb confirmed his participation in the call, along with Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Christian McCaffrey. Another notable participant was Josh Jacobs, according to a source. The meeting provided an opportunity for these running backs to exchange ideas and voice their concerns about the current state of their position in the NFL.
Running Backs’ Challenges and Frustrations
During the call, the running backs discussed the limitations they face in terms of their production affecting their value. Chubb expressed his frustration, stating that running backs are the only position where their high production can be held against them. If a running back has a stellar season with a significant number of carries, it often leads to concerns about their durability and potential decline in performance. This perception ultimately affects their contract negotiations and financial compensation.
Franchise Tag and Contract Negotiations
Barkley and Jacobs were both offered the franchise tag by their respective teams, the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders. However, they were unable to reach long-term contract agreements before the deadline. As a result, neither player has signed their franchise tender and is not expected to report to training camp with their teams. This stalemate could potentially lead to financial losses if they miss regular-season games and forfeit game checks.
Barkley even hinted at the possibility of not playing for the Giants this season due to his disagreement with the team. The financial uncertainty surrounding the franchise tag and the lack of long-term security have left these running backs feeling undervalued and dissatisfied.
Financial State of Running Backs
The discontent among running backs extends beyond Barkley and Jacobs. Prominent players such as Henry, McCaffrey, Ekeler, and Najee Harris of the Pittsburgh Steelers have expressed their displeasure with the financial state of their position. The lack of substantial contracts for running backs has become a widespread concern within the league.
The Last Big Contract and Future Outlook
The last time a running back signed a long-term contract worth $10 million or more per season was Chubb in 2021. Although Chubb’s contract runs through the 2024 season, he does not have any guaranteed money after this year. This uncertainty highlights the precarious situation faced by running backs, where their performance can quickly diminish their value in contract negotiations.
McCaffrey currently holds the title of the highest-paid running back, averaging just over $16 million per season. However, his contract was signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2020, and he is now with the San Francisco 49ers. His contract runs through the 2025 season, but it remains to be seen if other running backs will be able to secure similar deals in the future.
Conclusion
The Zoom call organized by Austin Ekeler brought together star NFL running backs to discuss the challenges they face in terms of fair compensation. The running backs expressed their frustrations with the current market for players at their position, highlighting concerns about how their production can negatively impact their value. With Barkley and Jacobs unable to secure long-term contracts before the deadline, the financial uncertainty surrounding the franchise tag has further fueled discontent among running backs. It remains to be seen how the NFL will address these concerns and whether running backs will be able to secure more lucrative contracts in the future.