Now that the regular season is over, all 32 NFL clubs can focus on free agency and the fantastic chance it presents to strengthen their squads. Although not as significant as the draft, free agency still provides plenty of excitement when an established great is acquired.
It’s likely that the running back market doesn’t get re-set every summer more than any other. Christian McCaffrey’s stats have yet to be matched.
The NFL may now be mostly a passing game, but a dynamic, two-way back like the ones in this year’s draft class can do wonders for an offense. CBS Sports have compiled a list of the top three available free agent RBs.
3. Tony Pollard
Pollard is a running back that stepped up big for his team last season. The Cowboy was named to the Pro Bowl after setting career highs of 1,378 all-purpose yards and 12 touchdowns while displaying his adaptability as an offensive weapon.
While Pollard was on the field for the Cowboys in 2022, they gained 5.9 yards per play. Moreover, he had the most average yards per carry of any running back this season (5.9).
2. Josh Jacobs
As far as career years go, Jacobs selected a great one. Jacobs had 2,053 all-purpose yards and 12 touchdowns after the Raiders did not pick up his fifth-year option, making him the league’s leading rusher. During Super Bowl week, he expressed optimism about his future with the Raiders by saying that he would be comfortable playing on the franchise tag provided the team improved offensively.
He went on to say that if the Raiders were to sign a quarterback of Aaron Rodgers’ caliber, it would “alter a lot of things” about his own future. At the tender age of 25, Jacobs established himself as a legitimate contender for the position of top running back in the NFL. The Raiders aren’t required to pay, but they should expect someone else to.
1. Saquon Barkley
Barkley’s trade value has dropped significantly since he was valued as a fourth-round selection only 11 months ago. Hence, his value has increased significantly. With a career-high 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns this past season, Barkley showed the NFL once again why he is considered one of the best running backs in the league. Furthermore, he had 57 receptions for 338 receiving yards.
The Giants’ return to the postseason for the first time since 2016 was largely due to Barkley’s stellar performance. The Giants would be wise to get Barkley back into the fold, especially because general manager Joe Schoen has previously said that he is a guy the team would want to re-sign.