Austin Ekeler didn’t explicitly mention collusion, yet he highlighted the struggles NFL running backs are facing in free agency lately while discussing the definition of the term.

“I believe ownership has strategically aimed to lower contracts for these players and diminish the overall importance of the running back position,” Ekeler shared with YSL News Sports. “But it’s clear that running backs remain incredibly significant.”

This significance has been particularly evident after Week 12 of the season, especially for elite running backs who made a strong impact with their new teams after signing new contracts. For instance, Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles rushed for two touchdowns, each over 70 yards, amassing a total of 303 yards in a game against the Los Angeles Rams. Likewise, Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens rushed for 140 yards in a win over the Los Angeles Chargers the next evening. Meanwhile, Josh Jacobs of the Green Bay Packers recorded three touchdowns and surpassed 100 rushing yards against the San Francisco 49ers.

These three athletes were the top options available at their position during the recent offseason. Teams with salary cap space and a need for running backs could have pursued them. Heading into Thanksgiving week, Barkley, Henry, and Jacobs rank as the league’s leading rushers, while their new organizations boast a combined record of 25 wins and 9 losses. In contrast, the teams that let these players go have only managed 7 wins and 26 losses.

While many factors contribute to a team’s success or failure, the teams that brought in these running backs enhanced their existing strengths, benefiting from outstanding offensive lines or additional offensive talent that defenses must deal with—or both.

“Overall, I believe that running the ball has become more crucial now than it has been previously,” remarked Maurice Jones-Drew, NFL Network analyst and former running back, to YSL News Sports. “What Saquon brings to the Eagles demonstrates why the Giants are considering a shift at quarterback, while the Eagles are thriving.”

“Elite players like Saquon and Derrick Henry illustrate that having a top-tier running back is essential for success in this league.”

Prior to their free agency, all three running backs had been tagged by their former teams. Henry signed the shortest and least lucrative deal among them—two years for $16 million, with $9 million guaranteed. In contrast, Barkley and the Eagles came to terms on a three-year contract worth $37.75 million, with $26 million guaranteed.

“He’s not being compensated fairly,” Jones-Drew stated.

Jacobs, the youngest of the group at age 26, inked a four-year deal worth up to $48 million, with a $12.5 million signing bonus as the only guaranteed portion of his contract.

Last summer, ahead of the start of training camp, a number of running backs—including Henry, Barkley, Jacobs, Ekeler, Nick Chubb from the Cleveland Browns, and Christian McCaffrey from the San Francisco 49ers—held a Zoom meeting to discuss the struggling market they were facing. (McCaffrey later secured a contract extension that made him the highest-paid running back in terms of average annual salary at $19 million.)

“We all have demonstrated consistent success, so to suddenly think we would decline simply due to new contracts is absurd. That’s part of why we decided to unite,” Ekeler explained. He signed a two-year contract worth up to $11.43 million with the Washington Commanders after spending seven seasons with the Chargers. “We have a significant impact on the game. Saquon and Derrick Henry’s performances speak for themselves. So the notion that running backs aren’t valued is quite puzzling, but it’s evident that they are.”

Running backs also struggle against the narrative of “wear-and-tear,” perhaps affecting Henry the most. Nevertheless, he seems to be back at his prime with the Ravens. Jones-Drew mentioned that some front offices fail to recognize the dedication and resources players at this position invest in maintaining their physicality.

“That’s another aspect that needs to be considered allowing them to perform effectively for a longer duration,” he added.

Barkley and Henry will face off this Sunday (4:25 p.m. ET, CBS) in a highly anticipated matchup. Last week, Henry stated that the ongoing discourse surrounding running backs did not impact his focus heading into the season.

“I have confidence in my work ethic, which I knew would yield results this season,” Henry remarked. “I simply required the opportunity, and I believe others felt similarly. Sure, players want recognition for their worth, but we are all focused on performing.”

Henry hopes that the success of himself, Barkley, Jacobs, and others like Aaron Jones of the Minnesota Vikings (currently ranked eighth in rushing yards) will pave the way for future running backs in free agency to receive fair contracts.

“They are franchise-caliber players, and they are proving that consistently,” Henry stated. “Their hard work is clearly reflected in their performances this season. I hope their successes will create opportunities for fellow running backs entering free agency to be compensated accurately.”

For over a decade, NFL offenses have increasingly prioritized the passing game over rushing. While many successful teams maintain a balanced offensive strategy, Jones-Drew believes the 2024 season has “redefined” the running back role.

“Players need to be in environments where they are appreciated rather than just tolerated,” Jones-Drew concluded.

At least in the meantime, running backs will consistently support one another—unless they are competing against each other on the field.

“We simply encourage one another by saying things like, ‘You did an amazing job. You had an outstanding game,’ as a way to uplift each other,” Henry expressed. “As running backs, it’s crucial for us to support one another, and it brings me joy to see everyone performing well.”