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The Running Back Problem

Whether you are on the side of the running backs, the owners, or indifferent, you have to admit: there is a running back problem. It’s all the talk around the #NFL right now. The question is, though, who or what, exactly, IS the problem?

Running backs believe they are being underpaid. Maybe they are right. Maybe they are wrong. Owners believe the market determines contracts. Maybe they are right. Maybe they are wrong. Let’s explore each.

Running backs are speaking up, claiming they are being underpaid. They are currently the fourth lowest paid position, at an average of $1.8 million per year. The only positions that get paid less are long snapper ($1.1 million), punter ($1.5 million), and fullback (1.7 million). It does seem odd that a typical “skill position” is hanging out so close to the lowest paid. More on that in a bit.

Owners and General Managers are simply letting the market dictate the amount they pay to running backs. Both the Colts and Cowboys - both with enigmatic owners - made headlines recently due to NOT paying star running backs. Why? Simply put, they don’t have to pay them.

This is where the problem lies. Despite the running back indeed being a skill position, they are easily replaced via drafts and free agency. It’s no secret the NFL has become a pass heavy, high scoring league. Dozens of rule changes make the quarterback and wide receiver almost untouchable. They certainly have all the advantages.

The inconvenient truth for running backs is this: you can win in the NFL without them. It is rare for a team to win the Super Bowl with a 1st Team All Pro Running Back. It’s even rarer for a team to win the Super Bowl with a first round drafted running back. They just don’t clearly and obviously lead to the ultimate goal - the Lombardi Trophy.

Sorry to all the stud running backs out there, but you are replaceable. I wish it was not the case so, but it is. Ezekiel Elliot is easily replaced with Tony Pollard. Dalvin Cook is easily replaced with Alexander Mattison. Jonathan Taylor will be easily replaced whenever that situation resolves itself. They are all easily replaced in the draft, in free agency, via trade, or by simply going five wide - which is going to happen more and more.

The NFL has a running back problem. Actually, to be more accurate, running backs have a running back problem.