The Revival of the Running Game in the NFL

Just one year ago, the NFL running back market seemed to be crashing. While quarterbacks, receivers, and edge rushers were all seeing their shares of the salary cap increase, running backs were being left out to dry. A common philosophy was to draft a new running back every few years in order to avoid dishing out big contracts. As this narrative came to a head, two of the NFL’s best backs hit the open market. Their impact on their current squads has played an important part in the revival of the running game in the NFL.

Taking Advantage of the Market

The Baltimore Ravens and the Philadelphia Eagles are both highly respected as some of the best-run franchises in football. They have a history of creating advantageous contracts and building well-rounded rosters. In the spring of 2024, both of these teams saw opportunities to acquire top-tier running backs on cheap contracts due to the state of the running back market. The Eagles Brought in former Giant Saquon Barkley, while the Ravens signed former Titan Derrick Henry. Barkley will earn $12.5M per year on his deal, while Henry will earn $8.5M per year. Combined, that is less than receivers like Calvin Ridley and Michael Pittman Jr. make per season.

In hindsight, the Ravens and Eagles look like masterminds. Barkley and Henry have been two of the most productive players in the NFL this season. Both backs played key roles in historic offenses and helped lead their teams on playoff runs. As we move towards the 2025 offseason, we may begin to see the impact that these two players have had on the running back market.

Leading with the Running Game

While Barkley and Henry have led the way, the league as a whole has shifted in favor of the running game this year. In 2023, only seven teams averaged at least 130 rushing yards per game. This season, that number is up to ten. Furthermore, only two of the league’s top four rushing teams made the playoffs in 2023. In 2024, each of the league’s top six rushing teams earned a spot in the postseason. Contenders are establishing identities as hard-nosed, physical running teams. For years, the pendulum of offensive strategy has been swinging towards seeking out explosive plays in the passing game. Could we be witnessing a change in that momentum?

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