It’s been a rough few weeks, even years, for NFL running backs. The position’s value has decreased in the eyes of NFL decision makers, and guys like Browns star running back Nick Chubb are less revered than ever before.
And, that’s showed up in contract negotiations. Star running backs like New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley and Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs have been unable to come to long term contracts after being placed on the franchise tag earlier this year.
That’s launched somewhat of an existential crisis among running backs. So, a running backs meeting was called Saturday night via video chat to discuss the future of the position. And, Nick Chubb spoke out about it. Here’s Pro Football Talk with more.
“Right now, there’s really nothing we can do,” Chubb said, via ESPN.com. “We’re kind of handcuffed with the situation. We’re the only position that our production hurts us the most. If we go out there and run 2,000 yards with so many carries, the next year they’re going to say, you’re probably worn down. It’s tough. . . . It hurts us at the end of the day.”
That’s why the best solution would be to create a fund that pay all running backs (especially those under their rookie contracts) for playing time, carries, receptions, yards, and touchdowns.
At the running back position specifically, the NFL isn’t a “what have you done for me lately?” league. It’s “what are you doing for me today, and what can I expect you to do for me tomorrow?”
That’s an interesting idea, but I don’t think that will fly in negotiations with the owners.