The NFL offseason has seen a notable trend of running backs struggling to secure substantial long-term contracts. The deadline for franchise-tagged players to negotiate new deals recently expired, leaving prominent running backs like Saquon Barkley, Tony Pollard, and Josh Jacobs still playing under the tag as training camps commence.

This contrasts with other positions where franchise-tagged players successfully reached agreements. Adding to the complexity, four-time Pro Bowler Dalvin Cook remains a free agent after the Minnesota Vikings released him in a cost-cutting move, despite his impressive career statistics with the team.

Meanwhile, 2017 rushing leader Kareem Hunt is also looking for a new team. Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler has been outspoken about the declining running back market and his own contract situation. He was granted permission to seek a trade earlier this offseason but ultimately reached a revised agreement with the Chargers that included additional incentives for 2023.

Ekeler has publicly questioned NFL owners about the rationale behind the apparent devaluation of the running back position, emphasizing the lack of new contracts and relevant comparable deals. He's pointed out the seeming contradiction between the high value teams placed on him in trade discussions versus their reluctance to offer him a commensurate contract extension.

Ekeler's experience highlights the challenges running backs face in the current NFL landscape, where their contributions often seem undervalued in contract negotiations despite their on-field importance.