49ers Running Back Christian McCaffrey’s Contract Extension Proves Just How Far Running Back Value Has Fallen

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It wasn’t that long ago when superstar running backs were among the most prized players in the NFL. Even into the 2000s, some of the highest-paid players in the league were running backs.

But, that is not the case anymore, to say the least. After arguably the game’s best running back,  San Francisco 49ers do-it-all back Christian McCaffrey, signed an extension on Tuesday, it’s clear just how running backs have fallen.

McCaffrey will remain the game’s highest-paid running back after his new tw0-year extension, worth $38 million over two years with $24 million guaranteed.

Here are some more details.

It’s a great contract for a running back, no doubt about it. But, when you compare it to some of the extensions some of the league’s other top players are getting, it’s not very impressive.

Take a look at the contract that Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson just got. On Monday, the superstar received a 4-year $140 million contract with $110 million guarantee.

Yes, Jefferson is younger, as he will play the upcoming season at 25 while Christian McCaffrey will be 28. But, in terms of effectiveness, Christian McCaffrey is one of the few offensive skill players that can even be mentioned alongside Justin Jefferson.  Yet, his contract is a small fraction of Justin Jefferson’s.

It goes to show just how far the perceived value of running backs has fallen. Even Christian McCaffrey, who is an elite receiver out of the backfield and had over 2000 yards from scrimmage last year on just 329 touches as a running back, can’t come close to the long-term financial security of wide receivers. That extends to quarterbacks, obviously, but also to edge rushers, elite interior defensive linemen, offensive tackles, and cornerbacks. All of those positions are getting significantly bigger deals than running backs. That didn’t always used to be the case.

You shouldn’t feel bad for Christian McCaffrey, or any other NFL running back for that matter. They’re making a ton of money in the scheme of things. But, it’s never been more clear that the league simply doesn’t value them. There’s too much injury risk, and production seems to fall of a cliff as guys get into their late twenties, sometimes even earlier. NFL GM’s have decided to invest money elsewhere.