As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, the conversation around quarterback investments has reached a boiling point. Lower-cost quarterbacks like Justin Fields and Sam Darnold are turning heads, outperforming their higher-paid counterparts. This trend raises a compelling question: Why should teams shell out big bucks for a star signal-caller when they could distribute that cash across a more robust roster? By supporting a solid “mid-tier” starter, teams might just find a winning formula. While discussions around quarterback spending heat up, running backs are also making headlines after signing lucrative contracts this offseason.
After years of the NFL downplaying the running back position, a flurry of significant deals has breathed new life into the ball carrier market. This sudden wave raises eyebrows: Are these players justifying their big-money contracts, or is the hype just smoke and mirrors?
Early 2024 Assessment Of Highest-Paid NFL Running Backs And See Who’s Stepping Up To The Plate
5. Rhamondre Stevenson – New England Patriots
- Contract: 4 years, $36 million (extension)
- AAV: $9 million (7th)
Rhamondre Stevenson has rebounded nicely after a challenging 2023 season. Rewarded for his perseverance, he has settled back into a tough-nosed featured role with the Patriots. While his pass-catching hasn’t yet shined, Stevenson has shown impressive grit, amassing 224 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He’s consistently gained yards after contact, ranking among the best in that category. The Patriots have leaned heavily on his tough running style, and they’re happy to have him back in the fold.
4. Joe Mixon – Houston Texans
- Contract: 2 years, $19.75 million (extension)
- AAV: $9.9 million (6th)
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After being acquired via trade from the Cincinnati Bengals, Joe Mixon has returned to Pro Bowl form in his debut with the Texans. He showed elite vision and burst, efficiently navigating behind a solid offensive line. However, a lingering ankle injury has limited his carries since Week 1, leaving fans wondering if he can maintain that high level of performance. If he can stay healthy, Mixon has all the tools to become a key contributor to Houston’s offense.
Also Read: Grading All 32 NFL Teams Running Backs After Week 3 Games Of The 2024 Season
3. Josh Jacobs – Green Bay Packers
- Contract: 4 years, $48 million
- AAV: $12 million (5th)
Josh Jacobs, the former Las Vegas Raiders star, has made a significant impact in Green Bay. Although he hasn’t emerged as a major threat in the passing game, his ground game has been stellar. With 278 rushing yards, Jacobs has found success even as the Packers navigate quarterback injuries. He’s racked up the second-most rushing yards after contact in the NFL, demonstrating his toughness and ability to gain crucial yards. With the team leaning heavily on the run game under head coach Matt LaFleur, Jacobs has solidified himself as a borderline top-five running back.
2. Saquon Barkley – Philadelphia Eagles
- Contract: 3 years, $37.75 million
- AAV: $12.6 million (4th)
Saquon Barkley has quickly proven to be worth every penny for the Philadelphia Eagles. Aside from a late-game drop that cost them a close game against the Atlanta Falcons, Barkley has been a powerhouse. His ability to break tackles and explode for big runs has helped fill the void left by A.J. Brown’s injury. With 351 rushing yards and four touchdowns through three games, many in the Eagles’ camp are considering him their MVP. His dynamic play has reinvigorated Philadelphia’s offense, making him a key player to watch as the season progresses.
1. Christian McCaffrey – San Francisco 49ers
- Contract: 4 years, $64 million (extension)
- AAV: $19 million (1st among RBs)
Christian McCaffrey earned his hefty new contract thanks to a jaw-dropping MVP-like performance last season, where he dazzled as the San Francisco 49ers’ workhorse. His ability to dominate on the ground and as a pass-catcher made him invaluable. However, the start of the 2024 season hasn’t been kind to McCaffrey. An Achilles tendinitis issue has sidelined him, and he’s currently in Germany seeking help from a specialist—definitely not a good sign for a speedy recovery. The silver lining? The 49ers’ Jordan Mason has stepped up, smoothly running behind a strong offensive line, helping to keep the 49ers competitive.
Also Read: Grading All 32 NFL Teams Running Backs After Week 3 Games Of The 2024 Season
Who Is Next In Line To Recieve A Big NFL Contract?
As we look ahead to the future, a few running backs stand out as strong candidates to join the ranks of the highest-paid.
- James Cook (Buffalo Bills): Cook has quietly become one of the most underrated skill weapons in the NFL. He ranks among the top five scrimmage-yard producers since 2023 and continues to be a threat as a pass-catcher. With an extension eligibility coming after this season, he’s poised for a significant payday.
- Bijan Robinson (Atlanta Falcons): The No. 8 overall pick in 2023, Robinson has emerged as a versatile playmaker. He combines short-yardage grit with dynamic pass-catching ability. He’ll be eligible for a new deal after the 2025 season, making him a player to watch.
- Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions): Gibbs splits touches with the hard-nosed David Montgomery but possesses the speed and agility to break big runs. As a former first-round pick, he’ll also be eligible for a long-term extension following the 2025 campaign.
Also Read: All-Pro Running Back Shocks Everyone By Announcing His Retirement From The NFL At The Age Of 29
