Why does Saquon Barkley think running backs are undervalued?
He believes it's a narrative created by teams to lower salaries and acquire players for cheaper value.
Sports / NFL
Philadelphia Eagles' Saquon Barkley addresses the ongoing discussion about the value of running backs in the NFL, highlighting factors contributing to perceived devaluation and praising the talent of emerging stars like Bijan Robinson and J...
Saquon Barkley's comments shed light on the economic realities of the running back position. He suggests that teams are deliberately trying to suppress salaries by creating a narrative around the position's diminishing importance and injury risks. This perspective is further supported by his observation that wide receivers, who also face performance declines with age, do not receive the same level of scrutiny. Barkley’s own success with the Eagles, where he achieved a historic season, challenges this narrative, showcasing the impact a dominant running back can have on a team's success.
**Historical Context:** The devaluation of running backs has been a topic of discussion for years, with teams increasingly prioritizing passing offenses and spreading the ball around. This trend has led to shorter contracts and lower salaries for running backs compared to other positions. However, players like Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley have demonstrated that a strong running game can still be a vital component of a championship team.
**Impact of Barkley's Success:** Barkley's outstanding performance with the Eagles in 2025, culminating in a Super Bowl victory, has reignited the debate about the true value of elite running backs. His ability to impact both the running and passing game makes him a valuable asset, and his new contract reflects this. However, the long-term implications for the position remain to be seen.
He believes it's a narrative created by teams to lower salaries and acquire players for cheaper value.
Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons.
He rushed for 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns, helping the Eagles win the Super Bowl and earning numerous individual awards.
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