The 2024 NFL season has proven to be a pivotal year for highlighting the immense value of NFL running backs. Notably, Saquon Barkley made a serious attempt at breaking the single-season rushing record while playing a crucial role in leading the Philadelphia Eagles to victory in the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, Derrick Henry delivered a standout performance during his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens. The impressive production of both players has garnered significant attention, particularly given their recent team changes during the offseason and the growing trend of teams reconsidering their investment in the running back position.
Following their noteworthy performances, Barkley has secured a new contract that reflects his substantial impact on the field. As for Henry, he is expected to negotiate a similar deal before entering his second year with the Ravens. This shift not only highlights the individual achievements of these athletes but also signals a broader trend in the NFL. Ashton Jeanty, widely regarded as the top running back in this year's draft class, believes the resurgence of running backs is gaining momentum. “I think the value is definitely going back up courtesy of guys in the league doing it, but also guys in college playing at a high level,” Jeanty stated, as reported by Garrett Podell of CBSSports.com.
Jeanty’s perspective points to a collective renaissance among running backs, suggesting that the time is ripe to secure a top-tier running back who can serve as an X-factor for any offense. Reflecting on his own success, Jeanty noted, “I had a really great, historic season, but there were a lot of other great guys who had fantastic seasons as well and made significant impacts in college football.” This resurgence echoes a transformative phase in the league, as teams begin to recognize the critical role that dynamic running backs play in their offensive strategies.
Jeanty’s impressive production at Boise State has sparked excitement and anticipation regarding his potential in the NFL. Should he fulfill the expectations placed upon him, the ongoing renaissance of running backs is unlikely to taper off anytime soon. As the NFL landscape evolves, the spotlight on running backs is brighter than ever, indicating that their value is poised to rise significantly in the coming seasons.
