Exploring the Market Value of Veteran NFL Running Backs like Henry and Barkley – Sky Bulletin
[ad_1]
As the NFL free agency period looms, veteran running backs such as Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley are set to test the market and determine their worth. Despite nearing the age of 30, Henry, a four-time Pro Bowler, is hitting the gym with determination, ready to challenge the notion that age should impact his value in the NFL.
Last summer’s initiator of a running backs group chat is not alone. Other notable players like Josh Jacobs and Tony Pollard, both tagged with franchise tags in 2023, are also anticipating free agency. Barkley played last season without signing his franchise tag, earning $10.1 million.
The critical question remains: Will these seasoned running backs secure substantial contracts, or will they face a market encouraging patience and compromise? “We’re all going to find out,” said Texans general manager Nick Caserio.
Each March, the start of the NFL year recalibrates the cost of free agents. Running backs have been particularly affected, with cheaper options often taking precedence. The position, only outpaced in lower average pay by kickers and punters, involves enduring grueling hits with each play.
None of the NFL teams applied a franchise or transition tag to a running back, which would have been set at $9.7 million for 2024. Defensive players received seven of the nine total tags given since the offseason began.
The saturated free agent market features a mix of older and younger successful running backs, according to Giants GM Joe Schoen. Experience doesn’t seem to be a concern for 26-year-old Jacobs, but with his least productive season behind him, his future remains uncertain as the Raiders consider alternatives.
Tom Telesco, Raiders GM, acknowledges the high talent pool for running backs in free agency. But with the NFL salary cap increase for 2024, running backs might still need to be selective. The upcoming NFL draft doesn’t offer much relief, with a relatively shallow pool for running backs.
Incoming talent like Michigan’s Blake Corum recognizes the low value placed on their position but emphasizes the need for running backs to prove their game-changing abilities. Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is optimistic, stating that the market could shift with just one significant deal.
Coming out of a season where he led in carries and ranked second in rushing, Henry is particularly in the spotlight. As he approaches the franchise record for career rushing yards, all eyes are on the Titans’ decisions, led by general manager Ran Carthon and new coach Brian Callahan.
The cost of securing a veteran running back is a critical question, especially for a player of Henry’s caliber. For now, speculation continues as the market readies itself for incoming free agents.
___
AP Sports Writer Steve Megargee contributed to this report.
___
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
The value of seasoned running backs like Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley in the NFL remains a hot topic as free agency approaches. The perception that older running backs are less valuable due to the physical demands of their position and the availability of fresh talent contributes to this uncertainty. Despite the challenges, experienced running backs could still find teams willing to invest in their proven track records. As the market opens and negotiations begin, the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping not only the careers of these individual athletes but also the perceived value of running backs in the league as a whole.
[ad_2]