- In recent seasons, the running back (RB) market has been under intense scrutiny., and LaDainian Tomlinson dazzling fans with speed, power, and agility. But as offenses have become increasingly pass-heavy, the RB position has been devalued in many front offices. Teams have shifted towards the committee approach, distributing carries among several players instead of relying on a single star. Contracts for top-tier running backs have dwindled, and players who once might have commanded significant salaries are now struggling to secure long-term deals. However, a new sentiment may be taking hold in the league. An anonymous executive believes that the recent success of Derrick Henry with the Baltimore Ravens and Saquon Barkley with the Philadelphia Eagles could spark a shift in how RBs are valued. “Elite RBs deserve to be paid,” the executive asserted, implying that these performances might reshape future contract discussions for the position.
Derrick Henry’s Impact with the Ravens
When the Baltimore Ravens traded for Derrick Henry, many wondered if the team’s run-heavy offense, which has been largely predicated on quarterback Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities, could effectively integrate a power back like Henry. His addition, however, has been transformative for Baltimore. Henry has not only complemented Jackson’s abilities but has also provided a focal point for the Ravens’ offense, adding a new layer of physicality and a consistent rushing threat. Henry’s performance, blending brute force with unexpected speed, has allowed the Ravens to control the clock, wear down defenses, and exploit mismatches. In multiple games, Henry has demonstrated that a high-caliber RB can be a true difference-maker, even in a league that tends to emphasize quarterback play and passing efficiency.
Moreover, Henry’s presence has lifted some of the burden from Jackson, allowing him to play more freely without the need to bear the full weight of the rushing game. This dynamic has made the Ravens more unpredictable, enhancing their play-action and short passing game. Henry’s consistent production has translated directly to the win column, demonstrating the potential of a top-tier RB in a well-rounded, balanced offense.
The effectiveness of Henry’s contributions has reinforced the idea that an elite RB can still significantly impact a team’s success. His ability to move the chains, break long runs, and punch through defensive fronts has reenergized the conversation about running backs as game-changers who can tilt the field. While Henry’s durability and style of play may be unique, his influence in Baltimore has led some executives to reconsider the role of a star running back in a balanced, winning team.
Saquon Barkley Shines with the Eagles
Similarly, Saquon Barkley’s arrival in Philadelphia has provided the Eagles with an added dimension that has left fans and analysts buzzing. Known for his versatility and agility, Barkley has elevated the Eagles’ offense by contributing both as a runner and as a pass-catching option. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has benefited immensely from Barkley’s presence, as defenses now have to account for a multi-faceted RB capable of breaking plays both on the ground and through the air.
Barkley’s skill set has redefined the Eagles’ offensive strategies. Not only does he excel in making defenders miss in open space, but his presence has also forced defenses to adopt more conservative schemes to avoid being burned by a long run. This has created more passing opportunities for Hurts and allowed the Eagles to deploy Barkley in a variety of formations, further complicating opposing defenses’ preparations. With Barkley on the roster, the Eagles have tapped into a style of play that keeps defenders guessing and allows them to dominate time of possession, critical in high-stakes games.
One could argue that Barkley’s skill set aligns more with the modern expectations for RBs—he’s not just a rusher but also a legitimate receiving threat. This versatility has placed him in a position where he can impact the game regardless of the situation, a rare and valuable asset. His impact in Philadelphia has strengthened the case for RBs as essential pieces in well-rounded offenses and suggested that a highly skilled RB can elevate a team’s performance on multiple fronts. For the Eagles, Barkley has delivered proof that an elite running back can be a significant asset when deployed creatively within a dynamic offense.
The Case for “Elite RBs Deserve to Be Paid”
The statement from the anonymous league executive that “elite RBs deserve to be paid” resonates because it challenges a recent trend in NFL roster building. In the past few years, many teams have been reluctant to sign running backs to lucrative contracts, favoring younger, cheaper options or committees instead. The logic has been that running backs often have shorter career spans due to the physical demands of the position and that their contributions are more replaceable compared to positions like quarterback, left tackle, or edge rusher. However, the successes of Henry and Barkley this season have demonstrated that a truly elite running back brings unique value that is not easily replicated by a committee approach.
The Ravens and Eagles both made sizable investments to bring Henry and Barkley on board, and these moves have paid dividends, not only in statistical production but also in terms of strategic flexibility. For a team to bring in an elite RB, it requires financial commitment and, in some cases, strategic shifts to fully utilize the player’s strengths. As Henry and Barkley continue to put up strong performances, they challenge the prevailing notion that paying top dollar for a running back is an inefficient allocation of resources.
When teams commit to elite running backs, they aren’t just paying for yards and touchdowns—they’re paying for the ability to keep defenses honest, to open up the passing game, and to wear down opponents over four quarters. This is particularly evident in high-stakes games where running backs like Henry and Barkley can dominate and dictate the pace of play, forcing opponents to adjust to their team’s rhythm. The intangible benefits of a game-breaking RB can be difficult to quantify, but they manifest in situations where the team needs a sustained drive, a critical third-down conversion, or the ability to close out a game with a lead.
Future Implications for the RB Market
If the performances of Henry and Barkley continue to influence games and lead their respective teams into postseason success, it could spark a reevaluation of the market for running backs. While the current trend in the NFL is to focus salary cap resources on positions deemed more “valuable” in today’s game, such as wide receivers, cornerbacks, and pass rushers, the contributions of top-tier RBs may encourage teams to allocate more funds toward finding and retaining high-impact running backs.
This potential shift could also impact the draft strategy for many franchises. Instead of waiting until the later rounds to draft RBs, more teams might consider spending higher picks on backs who show elite potential. After all, if an RB of Henry’s or Barkley’s caliber can elevate a team to contender status, the initial investment becomes a worthwhile risk.
It’s also possible that the nature of RB contracts may begin to evolve. Recognizing the physical toll that RBs endure, teams could start offering shorter, more lucrative contracts to star backs, allowing them to maximize earnings during their prime years without the risk of long-term decline. Creative contract structures might be employed to balance risk and reward, giving teams flexibility while still compensating running backs fairly.
Conclusion
The resurgence of Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley with the Ravens and Eagles, respectively, has brought renewed attention to the potential impact of elite running backs. Their successes have led some league executives, including the anonymous source, to advocate for higher pay for top-tier RBs. These players have shown that a skilled running back is more than a role player; they can be the engine of an offense, capable of dominating games and leading teams to victory.
While the future of the RB market remains uncertain, Henry and Barkley’s recent performances may have started a shift. If other running backs can replicate their success, teams may reconsider their stance on investing in the position. For now, it appears that the league is watching closely, weighing the costs and b
enefits of building around elite RBs.
