The Decline of Running Backs in the NFL

NFL teams are refusing to give running backs lucrative long-term contracts, reflecting the pass-first direction of the league. The league has become a quarterback-driven, explosive offense-focused league, leaving running backs feeling angry and underappreciated. Recent rule changes have enhanced scoring for quarterbacks and wide receivers, while running backs are being left behind. Several star running backs, including Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Tony Pollard, will play the 2023 season under the franchise tag-mandated salary after failing to agree on multiyear contracts. The trend of teams winning Super Bowls without dominant runners further diminishes the value of running backs in the league.