The NFL might officially have a running back problem.
After news of some of the league’s most elite backs not getting signed to contract extensions, there has been a widespread outcry among sports media.
In a recent segment of “First Take,” Stephen A. Smith gave his thoughts on the situation.
He started with a simple statement, “I stand with all of them.”
.@stephenasmith is standing with NFL running backs: pic.twitter.com/e6tVSHURih
— First Take (@FirstTake) July 24, 2023
He listed the names of several running backs, including Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, Josh Jacobs, and Saquon Barkley.
Barkley, Jacobs, and Tony Pollard were all franchise tagged when the offseason began but were not signed to extensions after that period.
Now, these players will have an important decision to make.
They can either play under the franchise tag or sit out for the 2023 season, hoping to get an extension for the 2024 campaign.
Many analysts, including Smith, believe that these athletes deserve better and that things didn’t have to come to this.
Running backs have taken a back seat to wide receivers and quarterbacks lately, especially regarding pay.
While this is likely due to the pass-friendly nature of the league, having an elite running back on your roster is still valuable, as they often help set up the passing attack.
This situation has gotten out of hand quickly.
Reports have surfaced of a Zoom meeting between the league’s best running backs, discussing the current state of the position and how they’ll be able to resolve this issue.
While players have taken it upon themselves to create a call to action, the ball is now in the league’s court.
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